Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Skip to main content

Important Notice

The Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre (SIIC) will be closing on March 31, 2025 due to funding cuts. This website will no longer be available after this date. Please save any guides you would like ahead of the closure. If you have any questions, please email siic@vpl.ca.

How Do I Become a Butcher?

Butchers usually require:

  • High school diploma
  • Valid BC FoodSafe certification

You may also be expected to have:

  • Post-secondary program or apprenticeship in meat cutting
  • Prior experience or on-the-job training 

You can often get an entry-level job as a butcher without any prior experience or education if the employer is willing to provide you with on-the-job training. However, many employers do prefer to hire applicants with some prior education in meat cutting. Another way to enter the trade is through a 1- to 3-year apprenticeship.

In British Columbia, trade certification for butchers is available but not mandatory.

Sources: WorkBC & Career Cruising