Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary: $20
Job Title: Meat Manager
Department: Meat Department
Reports To: Store Manager/ Store Assistant Manager
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Meat Manager is responsible for the overall operation, leadership, and performance of the Meat Department in a fresh market. This role ensures the highest standards of food safety, product quality, customer service, and team development while maintaining compliance with local regulatory requirements. The Meat Manager leads by example, working hands-on in daily production while managing inventory, labor, merchandising, and profitability.
Key Responsibilities
Department Operations & Leadership
- Oversee daily operations of the Meat Department, including cutting, grinding, packaging, merchandising, and sanitation
- Lead, train, schedule, and coach meat department associates
- Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment.
- Ensure adequate staffing levels and efficient labor utilization
- Conduct performance coaching and participate in hiring and onboarding
Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
- Maintain full compliance with sanitationrequirements
- Enforce state and local food safety regulations
- Ensure proper execution of sanitation processes
- Verify temperature controls, sanitation logs, corrective actions, and recordkeeping
- Participate in internal audits, mock recalls
- Ensure all associates are trained in food safety, allergen awareness, and safe handling practices
Production & Quality Control
- Ensure consistent product quality, trim standards, portion control, and yields
- Monitor freshness, rotation, and proper labeling
- Minimize shrink through proper handling, cutting techniques, and inventory management
- Oversee value-added and case-ready products as applicable
- Ensure proper equipment operation and maintenance
Inventory, Ordering & Financial Performance
- Manage ordering, receiving, and inventory levels to meet sales demand
- Control shrink, waste, and markdowns
- Monitor department sales, margins, and labor costs
- Assist in pricing, promotions, and merchandising strategies
- Work closely with management to meet budget goals
Customer Service & Merchandising
- Provide exceptional customer service and product knowledge
- Ensure meat cases are clean, well-stocked, properly signed, and visually appealing
- Handle customer inquiries, special orders, and concerns professionally
- Support store-wide promotions and seasonal merchandising
Qualifications
Required
- 35 years of meat cutting and department leadership experience
- Strong working knowledge of fresh meat fabrication and retail operations
- Experience working in a food-safety-driven environment
- Ability to lead by example in a hands-on environment
Preferred
- Prior experience managing a meat department in an independent or family-owned market
- ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification (will train/provide)
- Experience with inventory systems and retail POS platforms
- Knowledge of HACCP, USDA regulations, and sanitation standards (not required, willing to train)
Physical & Work Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 5075 lbs
- Work in refrigerated environments
- Use of knives, saws, grinders, and other meat processing equipment
- Flexible schedule including weekends and holidays
Core Competencies
- Leadership & accountability
- Food safety & regulatory compliance
- Attention to detail
- Customer-first mindset
- Time management and organization
- Problem-solving and decision-making
Why Join Our Market
- Family-owned, community-focused workplace
- Commitment to quality, food safety, and craftsmanship
- Opportunity to lead and grow within a trusted local business