Butchers

Eagle Recruitment NZ is seeking skilled and dedicated Butchers to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing, cutting, trimming, and boning meat according to customer specifications and company standards. This role requires a strong understanding of various cuts of meat, excellent knife skills, adherence to strict hygiene protocols, and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer service.

About Us

Eagle Recruitment NZ specialises in connecting highly skilled talent with exceptional opportunities in niche industries. We are dedicated to facilitating permanent placements and labour-hire solutions that match employees' skill sets with employers' needs. Leveraging our extensive network and industry expertise, we streamline the hiring process to ensure mutual success for candidates and employers.

Responsibilities:

• Meat Preparation & Processing:

  • Receive, inspect, and store meat deliveries following food safety regulations.

  • Break down carcasses and primal cuts into retail cuts (e.g., steaks, roasts, chops, sausages, mince).

  • Bone, trim, tie, and grind various types of meat (beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and occasionally game).

  • Prepare specialty cuts and value-added products (e.g., marinades, skewers, gourmet sausages, pre-made meals).

  • Operate and maintain butchery equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., saws, mincers, slicers, grinders).

  • Monitor and manage meat inventory, ensuring freshness and minimising waste.

     

• Quality Control & Food Safety:

  • Adhere strictly to all New Zealand Food Safety regulations (HACCP principles, MPI guidelines).

  • Maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness throughout the butchery area, equipment, and personal presentation.

  • Conduct regular temperature checks and ensure proper storage of all meat products.

  • Identify and report any signs of spoilage or quality issues.

  • Follow proper waste disposal procedures.

     

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • Assist customers with meat selections, provide cooking advice, and offer product recommendations.

  • Accurately weigh, price, and package meat orders.

  • Process customer payments using the point-of-sale (POS) system.

  • Maintain a clean, attractive, and well-stocked display counter.

  • Handle customer inquiries and complaints in a professional and efficient manner.

     

• Stock Management & Merchandising:

  • Rotate stock effectively to ensure freshness and reduce spoilage.

  • Assist with ordering and receiving meat supplies.

  • Contribute to attractive and appealing meat displays.

  • Monitor stock levels and communicate replenishment needs.

     

• Teamwork & Other Duties:

  • Collaborate effectively with team members to ensure smooth operations.

  • Assist with general shop duties as required (e.g., cleaning, stock rotation).

  • Participate in training and development opportunities.

  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures.

Requirements and Skills:

• Level 4 NZ Certificate in Trade Butchery, or at least three years of work as a Butcher in a retail or production environment.

   

• Strong knife skills and proficiency in various butchery techniques.

   

• Thorough understanding of different cuts of meat and their appropriate uses.

   

• Solid knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations (e.g., ISO 22000:2018/Amd 1:2024 Food Safety Management Systems, Animal Products Act 1999).

   

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

   

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

   

• Physically fit and able to lift heavy objects (e.g., carcasses, boxes of meat) and stand for extended periods.

   

• Reliable, punctual, and with a strong work ethic.

   

• A commitment to providing excellent customer service.

   

• Be willing to undergo random drug tests while employed.

   

• Must be an NZ Citizen, NZ Resident, or eligible to work in NZ.

Advantageous but not required:

• Experience with value-added product creation (e.g., sausage making, marinades).

   

• Basic computer literacy for POS systems and inventory management.

The successful applicants will have the opportunity to work in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, and Canterbury.

This is a full-time, permanent role, and the hourly pay rate ranges between NZ$25 and NZ$35, depending on experience and qualifications. The work hours are a minimum of 30 hours to a maximum of 70 hours per week, and they are to be worked between Monday and Friday, between 7 am and 5 pm. They may be required to work on weekends.