Butcher / Meat Cutter

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Industry: Retail (Hypermarkets, Butcher Shops), Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants), Meat Wholesaling

Report To: Butchery Department Manager, Head Butcher, or Purchasing Manager

Job Overview:

A Butcher/Meat Cutter is responsible for the entire process of preparing meat for sale or kitchen use. This includes breaking down carcasses, primal cuts, and sub-primal cuts into retail or restaurant-ready portions. The role demands precision, knowledge of meat grades and cuts (including Halal compliance), and a strong commitment to quality and sanitation.

Key Responsibilities:

Cutting & Preparation: Break down whole carcasses (lamb, goat, poultry) and large primal cuts (beef, veal) into sub-primals and finished retail cuts (steaks, chops, roasts, stew meat, mince) using saws, cleavers, and boning knives.
Halal Compliance: Ensure all meat handled has been sourced from approved Halal suppliers and that all processing is done in accordance with Islamic principles. Maintain clear segregation and labeling.
Portion Control: Precisely cut and trim meat to specific weights and specifications as required by recipes, customer orders, or standard shop portions. Minimize waste.
Grinding & Processing: Prepare minced meat (keema), kebabs, and marinated products according to established recipes and safety guidelines.
Customer Service: Serve customers at the counter, advise on cuts for specific dishes (e.g., mandi, grills, stews), and fulfill custom orders. Upsell products when appropriate.
Stock & Display Management: Manage inventory, ensure proper rotation of stock, and create attractive, well-labeled displays in refrigerated counters. Monitor dates and product quality continuously.
Equipment & Sanitation: Operate and maintain heavy equipment (band saws, mincers, slicers) and hand tools. Conduct deep cleaning of all equipment, work surfaces, floors, and cold rooms. Adhere to stringent sterilization protocols.
Safety & Compliance: Follow all UAE food safety (HACCP) and occupational safety regulations. Use PPE (chainmail gloves, aprons, non-slip boots) and ensure safe operation of all machinery.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Minimum 3 years of experience as a Butcher or Meat Cutter in a retail or hospitality setting.
Comprehensive knowledge of animal anatomy, meat fabrication techniques, and different cut specifications (Western and Middle Eastern styles).
Mandatory understanding of Halal meat handling requirements.
Ability to use electric and manual butchering equipment safely and efficiently.
Physical strength and stamina to lift heavy items (up to 30-40 kg) and stand for entire shifts.
Good attention to detail for portioning and trimming.
Communication skills in English; Arabic is a significant advantage.
Relevant food safety certification is required.

Work Environment:

Cold, physically demanding, and requires handling sharp tools and heavy machinery. Pace can be very high during peak seasons (Ramadan, Eid, holidays).

Butcher / Meat Cutter jobs

Butcher / Meat Cutter