Apprentice Butcher

Work as part of a busy butchery team learning specialist knife skills, meat preparation, trimming and cutting techniques. You will follow strict food safety and hygiene standards while developing knowledge of product quality, traceability and production processes, working towards a Level 2 Butcher Apprenticeship.

What you'll do

• Learn and develop practical butchery skills, including cutting, trimming and preparing meat products
• Work with a range of meats following specifications and production requirements
• Use knives and butchery equipment safely and effectively
• Follow strict food safety, hygiene and health & safety procedures at all times
• Support the preparation and packing of products ready for dispatch
• Check product quality, ensuring standards are met consistently
• Maintain a clean and organised working environment
• Work as part of a team in a fast-paced production setting
• Gain knowledge of traceability, stock control and waste minimisation
• Receive ongoing training and support to build confidence and competence in the role

Training

The apprentice will work towards a Level 2 Butcher Apprenticeship

Training will be delivered through a combination of on-the-job learning and off-the-job study.

The apprentice will attend college one day per week during term time, with the remaining four days spent in the workplace gaining practical experience and developing skills under the guidance of experienced staff.

After the apprenticeship

Upon successful completion of the Level 2 Butcher Apprenticeship, there may be the opportunity to progress onto a Level 3 qualification to further develop advanced butchery skills.

The employer also aims to offer a full-time position, subject to performance and business needs.

Skills

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative
• Physical fitness

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, English (grade 3/D)
• Essential: GCSE, Maths (grade 3/D)

Things to consider

This role is in a fast-paced food production environment. You will stand for long periods and work in chilled conditions while handling raw meat. The work can be physically demanding and includes repetitive tasks. Early starts and set shifts may be required. You must follow strict hygiene, food safety and health and safety standards and wear employer-provided PPE. You must be able to travel reliably to and from the workplace.

Benefits

• Share save scheme and employee benefits app
• 28 days annual leave entitlement
• New canteen with freshly made breakfast and lunch options
• Cycle to work scheme
• Commitment to ongoing progression and development
• Job stability at a growing and expanding company

About the employer

Cranswick plc is one of the UK's leading food producers, supplying premium fresh and prepared food products to major retailers, food service providers and global markets. With a strong farm-to-fork approach, the company operates across farming, food production and supply, ensuring high standards of quality, sustainability and traceability throughout its operations.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Butcher (level 2), Sales, marketing and procurement

• Apprenticeship level: Intermediate (level 2)

• Training provider: BISHOP BURTON COLLEGE

• Expected duration: 1 Year 6 Months

• Hours: 40 hours a week. Working week: Working hours will be discussed fully at interview. Typical hours are Monday to Friday.

• Applicants aged 16–17: 6:00am–2:30pm.

• Applicants aged 18 and over: 6:00am–2:30pm, with daily overtime required until production is completed.

• Start date: 1 December 2026

• Positions available: 15

• Wage: £22,568 a year