Butchery Apprenticeship | Shrewsbury

Meatex Ltd; SHREWSBURY; On-site; GBP 20,000 - GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team as a Butchery Apprentice, where you will gain hands-on experience in butchery while contributing to the production of high-quality meat products. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to learn cutting-edge techniques and develop essential skills in a supportive environment. With a focus on health, safety, and sustainability, you will be part of a journey that not only prepares you for a fulfilling career in meat processing but also opens doors to advanced qualifications and specialized roles. Embrace this chance to shape your future in a rewarding industry!

Benefits

Cycle to work scheme

Subsidised canteen

Discounted gym membership

Life insurance

Free onsite parking

Referral programme

Wellness programme

Loyalty bonuses

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required, but support for Level 1 Functional Skills.
• Enthusiasm for the industry and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Learn butchery principles and carcass processing techniques.
• Collaborate with the team to meet productivity targets.

Skills

Knife Skills

Communication Skills

Time Management

Attention to Detail

Education

Level 1 Functional Skills

Job description

As a Butchery Apprentice at ABP UK, you will embark on a hands-on learning experience, gaining foundational knowledge and practical skills in the art of butchery. Working within our dynamic team, you’ll contribute to the production of award-winning British and Irish beef and lamb products, aligning with our commitment to quality, efficiency, traceability, and sustainability, as well as learning about animal welfare, stress prevention, and lean manufacturing practices.

Your apprenticeship will be a journey of continuous learning of the latest butchery techniques. This apprenticeship is a foundation for a fulfilling career in meat processing. Post-apprenticeship, advance within the butchery team or explore management roles. This isn’t just a stepping stone; it’s a launchpad for a dynamic, rewarding butchery career, supported by ongoing professional development and experienced mentors.

Working Monday to Friday, initially from 8am but gradually moving towards 6:30am, you will undertake practical and theory-based learnings.

Working four days per week on practical skills, learning cuts and specifications whilst training to process products to the required standard. You will then spend one day per week onsite learning theory aspects of anatomy, food science and developing functional skills.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Acquire foundational knowledge in butchery principles, meat species, and carcass processing techniques.
2. Learn and apply craft and knife skills for cutting, boning, trimming, and mincing meat.
3. Gain knowledge about the meat sector’s history, values, culture, and traditions.
4. Collaborate with the team to meet deadlines and productivity targets in a busy environment.
5. Adhere to health, food safety, and hygiene standards in the butchery environment.
6. Support stock control, quality assurance, and customer expectations.

Personal Attributes:

1. Take personal operational responsibility for health and food safety.
2. Display a willingness to learn, solve problems, and acquire new skills.
3. Be punctual, reliable, diligent, and respectful towards customers, peers, and colleagues.
4. Show attention to detail, carrying out duties diligently, and understanding how efficiency supports business profitability.
5. Maintain the vision and ethos of the business, taking pride in work and fostering positive relationships with colleagues.

Knowledge and Experience:

1. No formal qualifications required. However, as part of the programme we will support you towards completing your Level 1 Functions Skills.
2. Good timekeeping and ability to work under own initiative.
3. Enthusiasm for our industry and working towards completing your apprenticeships.
4. Keen to learn and develop your skills.
5. A team player with excellent communication skills.

Benefits:

1. Cycle to work scheme.
2. Subsidised canteen serving hot meals.
3. Discounted gym membership.
4. Life insurance.
5. Free onsite parking.
6. Referral programme with financial incentives.
7. Wellness programme.
8. Loyalty bonuses.

As part of completing your apprenticeship you will gain the following qualifications: Level 2 Food Safety Award, Level 2 Health & Safety in the Food Supply Chain Award, and Level 2 Knife Skills Award.

This apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone for your butchery career. Successful completion opens pathways to advanced qualifications and specialised roles within ABP UK. As you continue to grow, explore opportunities in sustainable butchery, retail, or pursue further education in the broader meat industry. Following completion, apprentices are recognised by the Institute of Meat (IoM), enabling them to use the initials M.Inst.M. Join us on this journey and shape your future with ABP UK!