How Do I Become a Butcher?

Butchers usually require:

• completion of high school
• completion of a meat cutting training program
  or
• completion of a meat cutting apprenticeship may be required
• successful completion of BC FoodSafe program may be required

In some cases on-the-job training may be provided instead of formal education.

You can find employment as a butcher without prior training. However, many employers prefer to hire applicants with some post-secondary training in meat cutting. Another way to enter the trade is through a 1 to 3-year apprenticeship.

In British Columbia, trade certification for butchers is available, but not mandatory.

For more information about apprenticeship programs and certification see:

Useful Websites