The Meat Trainer supports Meat Department performance across multiple store locations through hands-on training, development, and execution coaching. This role works closely with the Regional Sales Manager of Meat, Store Managers, District Managers, and Meat Department Teams to ensure consistent departmental standards, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.
The Meat Trainer helps build confident department leaders by training Meat Managers and associates on core practices, reinforcing company programs, and supporting store-level execution improvements that drive sales and profitability.
Core Responsibilities
Training and Development
Train Meat Managers and Meat Department associates on company standards and best practices.
Provide hands-on coaching in Meat Department processes including:
Safety and Sanitation
Training and Processing Standards
Pricing, Displaying, and Merchandising
Weights and Tares, Scanning Accuracy
Inventory and Shrink Reduction
Customer Service Standards
Assist with training for new Meat Managers and new team members.
Support skill-building to strengthen leadership, productivity, and confidence in department teams.
Operational Execution Support
Conduct store visits to evaluate training needs and department readiness.
Reinforce consistent execution standards across multiple locations.
Identify performance gaps and partner with Meat Managers to correct daily behaviours and routines.
Help stores implement action plans tied to execution improvements and departmental results.
Performance & Standards Reinforcement
Support Meat Department performance aligned to budgeted sales and profitability goals.
Promote shrink awareness and operational habits that protect gross profit.
Assist in improving customer readiness through:
Strong case conditions
Consistent product quality
Effective merchandising
Service-focused execution
Communication & Partnership
Act as a training liaison between the Regional Sales Manager of Meat and store teams.
Communicate expectations, training updates, and improvement needs clearly and consistently.
Work collaboratively with Store Managers and District Managers to support training plans and staffing needs.
Provide feedback on training progress, store execution strengths, and opportunities.
Support of Store Leadership
Assist Store Managers with department training needs during staffing transitions or turnover.
Partner in department readiness during leadership changes, performance struggles, or new program rollouts.
Support team development by helping identify high-potential Meat associates for growth paths.
Qualifications
Previous leadership or training experience in grocery or retail, preferably in Meat operations.
Strong knowledge of Meat Department processes and compliance standards.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to train, coach, and influence others with a positive, supportive approach.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities.
Organized, dependable, and able to work independently.
Core Competencies
Accountability
Accurate & Detail-Oriented
Strong Communication (written and verbal)
Customer oriented
Decision Making
Leadership & Influence
Organized & Reliable
Problem Solving
Self-Motivated
Team Building
Time Management
Education/Experience
High School Graduate or GED
Preferred: 2+ years of Meat Department Management experience.
Computer Skills: Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Must have access to phone at all times.
Able to perform basic math calculations
Physical Demands
This role requires the ability to stand, walk, lift, bend, reach, and perform physical work typical of a Meat Department environment, including lifting and carrying product/equipment.
Houchens Industries is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Education and Training
Industries
Retail
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