Learning the Ropes. Salary: $9.00/hour 

You've decided to commit yourself to your first love: meat. You've got an apprenticeship with a master butcher and your very own striped apron. Your heart is full, but your pockets are pretty empty, so you've picked up a part-time job to pay the bills.

Sharpening Skills. Salary: $12.00/hour 

With your first year of apprenticing under your belt, you really know what it takes to cut it in the field. However, your skills will need a little more polishing before you earn your spot behind the counter. Speaking of earning, you've actually got some cash flowing into your pockets. It's not much, but it still feels good.

New Butcher on the Block. Salary: $28,600 

You just landed your first salaried gig as the assistant butcher at a local deli that specializes in artisan meats (yeah, you got fancy). You're in awe of the knife-wielding genius you work beside and are continuing to learn more about the field. You're also taking notes on what you'd do if it was your place. Dream big, meat maverick.

Butcher Boss. Salary: $42,000 

Your boss decided to branch out from the butcher business and start his own posh pickle shop, leaving you in the driver's seat. He still has ownership, but he lets you steer the ship on a daily basis. You're developing a stronger bond with the customers and bringing in new selections that make sales soar. You even have your first apprentice. Finally, somebody to fetch you coffee.

A Deli of One's Own. Salary: $50,000 

You saved up, bid farewell to the pickle peddler, and decided to start your own shop. With your loyal apprentice by your side (now in the role of assistant), you open the doors on the first day to a crowd just dying to get their hands on the incredible selections filling your cases. As the onslaught of orders start pouring in, you take a second to smile and appreciate just how great it feels to finally accomplish your dream.