Qualifications
Being a butcher is about more than slicing the bacon. Here's a breakdown of what you need to have in order to make the cut:
- A degree isn't everything, but it can be helpful. You should at least complete high school in order to gain the basic skills needed to carry out the day-to-day tasks of the field. If you want to go beyond the twelfth grade, you'd be wise to continue on to a culinary arts program.
- You don't need a professional certificate in order to work as a butcher, but you will need a food handler's permit. This can be obtained through your state, typically online.
- Butchery requires a myriad of skills, the most important being: hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, the ability to listen and engage with customers, and plenty of stamina so you can stay on your feet all day long.
Have you got all that? Great. All you need now is an appreticeship under a master butcher, and you'll be set to go.