Meat & Seafood Cutter

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Location: Operations – Cedar Rapids, Coralville, Iowa City

Reports to: Meat & Seafood Team Leader

Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time, Non-Exempt

About New Pioneer Food Co-op

New Pioneer Food Co-op is a community owned, value driven local food marketplace rooted in cooperation, sustainability, and shared success. We exist to strengthen the local food system while creating welcoming spaces for staff, members, and partners to thrive.

Our Meat & Seafood departments reflect our commitment to quality, craftsmanship, responsible sourcing, and knowledgeable customer service.

About the Role

The Meat & Seafood Clerk / Cutter I is a foundational role within the Meat & Seafood Department focused on learning core department operations, product handling, preparation skills, and customer service.

This role supports daily department execution through stocking, sanitation, case presentation, customer interaction, and foundational meat and seafood preparation while building the technical skills needed to grow within the department.

Working alongside experienced cutters and department leadership, this position provides hands on development in a fast paced and service focused retail environment.

What You Will Do

• Support daily Meat & Seafood operations through stocking, wrapping, labeling, and product replenishment
• Assist with foundational meat and seafood preparation tasks while learning proper knife handling and equipment safety
• Maintain clean, organized, and food safe workspaces, prep areas, coolers, and display cases
• Provide friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable customer service in a full service counter environment
• Support product rotation, freshness standards, and case presentation expectations
• Assist with department setup, breakdown, sanitation, and operational readiness throughout shifts
• Learn department procedures related to food safety, product quality, and merchandising standards
• Work collaboratively with team members to support smooth department operations and customer experience

What Success Looks Like

• Display cases, prep areas, and customer facing spaces remain clean, stocked, organized, and operationally ready
• Customers experience welcoming, knowledgeable, and helpful service throughout the department
• Food safety, sanitation, and operational procedures are followed consistently
• Tasks are completed accurately with growing efficiency and attention to detail
• Product handling and preparation skills continue to develop steadily over time
• Team members contribute positively to department culture and operational flow

What You’ll Bring

• Previous grocery, retail, food service, or customer service experience preferred but not required
• Strong customer service mindset and willingness to learn
• Ability to work in a fast paced and team oriented environment
• Strong attention to detail and organizational awareness
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
• Flexible availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Interest in natural and organic grocery products preferred

Compensation & Benefits

This position offers competitive hourly pay aligned with market benchmarks for similar cooperative retail roles, along with benefits that may include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, staff discounts, and retirement plan options for eligible team members.

Why Join New Pioneer

Join a mission driven cooperative committed to quality food and strong community relationships. This role offers hands on retail experience, skill development, and the opportunity to grow within a supportive and values driven team environment.