Butcher Apprentice Program
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Preserving a Craft As one of the oldest professions dating back to the Middle Ages, butchery has been an important and highly-respected trade, with many knowing their local butcher by name. To continue to preserve and advance this ancient craft, we have developed our own Butcher Apprentice Program that provides Team Members the opportunity to develop specialized skills and transform that expertise into a career. 

Through the 12-month curriculum, you will perfect meat-cutting practices and become an expert in our quality and animal welfare standards. Work alongside an experienced butcher to hone techniques and gain familiarity with a wide range of cuts from different species. Upon graduation, you will be ready to take on the advanced role of Butcher. And the opportunities for growth don't stop there- becoming a Butcher makes you an excellent candidate for team leadership positions!
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Program Information

Who Anyone can apply! No experience required. If necessary, we can help current Team Members arrange transfer to a location that offers this program.
How Long The program is designed to be completed in 12 months and is comprised of two six-month phases focused on training and honing skillsets with on-the-job experience.
Where
Our Butcher Apprentice Program is offered at select Whole Foods Market Stores. Available positions are listed here and towards the bottom of this page. 
When We accept candidates at the beginning of each month as availability permits. 

Hear it From the Team

Impactful Program "My time in the apprenticeship program was my most impactful experience at Whole Foods Market. The program really sharpened my skills as a Butcher and in setting displays and merchandizing cuts for full-service cases. I was completely new to processing organic meats and learning the animal welfare programs for each species of animal." – Allison W. Meat Team Leader
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Unparalleled Experience "I appreciate Whole Foods Market for giving me the opportunity to go through this program, which taught me about animal welfare, organics, and simple cuts of meat. I'm thankful for the support that I gained from my team, which has combined experience of more than 60 years. This was an unparalleled experience that I will retain and pass onto future generations in the industry. The program is a phenomenal introduction into the world of meat cutting." – William H. II Meat Cutter

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