Meat cutter jobs are in consistent demand throughout Canada, especially in grocery stores, food plants, and butcher shops. These roles require hands-on skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in cold environments. Here’s everything you need to know to start working as a meat cutter in Canada.
Job Overview
| Province / Company | Hourly Wage (CAD) | Job Type | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (Canada-wide) | $18 – $29/hr | Retail / Plant | No formal degree, on-the-job training |
| Cargill (Guelph, ON) | $23.45 – $29.95/hr | Plant-based | 3+ years experience, work permit |
| Cargill (High River, AB) | ~$25.50/hr starting | Plant-based | Same as Guelph |
| JBS Foods (Brooks, AB) | $22.85 – $29.20/hr | Industrial Cutter | 1+ year experience, physical fitness |
Job Description
As a meat cutter, your tasks may include cutting, trimming, deboning, and packaging meat. You’ll use knives, saws, and other tools, often while standing for long periods in refrigerated environments. Retail cutters often interact with customers, while plant cutters focus on mass processing and speed.
Salary Expectations
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Average wage across Canada: $20–$25/hour
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Retail meat cutters: Around $18–$22/hour
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Industrial/plant meat cutters: Can reach up to $29/hour, especially in Alberta and Ontario
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Annual salary: $39,000 – $55,000, depending on location and experience
Requirements
Most employers do not ask for formal education. However, you must be:
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Physically fit and able to work in cold conditions
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Comfortable using sharp tools and working with raw meat
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Able to follow food safety and hygiene procedures
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Experienced (1–3 years) for higher-paying roles
Some companies offer paid training. If you’re new to the trade, you may start as a helper or apprentice.
Career Growth
With experience, meat cutters can move into supervisory roles, become quality inspectors, or even open their own butcher shops. Training programs are also available in some colleges for advanced skills.
Immigration and Work Permits
If you’re applying from outside Canada, you may qualify through:
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Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
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Agri-Food Pilot
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Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Applicants with experience in meat cutting have a better chance of getting job offers and work visas.
Apply Now
Cargill – Meat Cutter (Guelph, Ontario / High River, Alberta)
https://careers.cargill.com/en/job/guelph/meat-cutter-noc-63201/23251/80167984640
