Meat Assistant Department Manager

Community Food Coop•Bellingham, WA

About The Position

The Assistant Meat Department Manager supports the daily operations of the Meat Department, ensuring fresh, high-quality products, excellent customer service, and efficient team performance. This role helps with ordering, inventory management, staff training, merchandising, and maintaining health and safety standards. The Assistant Manager works closely with the Meat Department Manager and Store Leadership to create a positive work environment and uphold department goals.

Requirements

Willingness to learn and develop skills in meat department operations.
Prior experience in a meat department or related environment is a plus, but not required.
Basic knowledge of meat cuts, preparation, and safety standards preferred but not necessary—willingness to learn required.
Strong customer service skills, with an eagerness to develop leadership and organizational abilities.
Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Teams) and openness to learning inventory management systems and scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity).
Willingness to learn about merchandising techniques and inventory control best practices.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, maintain attention to detail, and prioritize tasks effectively.

Responsibilities

Assist in overseeing daily meat department operations, including stocking, prepping, and merchandising products.
Ensure product quality, freshness, and presentation standards are met.
Support compliance with company policies, health and safety regulations, and organic standards.
Assist with hiring, training, and developing department staff.
Help create and maintain staff schedules using scheduling software (e.g., Paylocity).
Provide feedback, coaching, and support to staff to help them succeed.
Model and reinforce excellent customer service within the department.
Train staff on customer service expectations and food safety best practices.
Maintain knowledge of meat products, cuts, preparation methods, and cooking techniques.
Ensure staff can effectively communicate product details to customers, especially regarding sourcing and preparation.
Assist in monitoring inventory levels and ensuring proper stock rotation.
Conduct regular quality checks to remove unsellable items and minimize shrinkage.
Help with ordering, handling, and storing products to minimize waste and maintain quality.
Ensure proper storage and handling of meat products to maintain quality and safety.
Assist the Meat Department Manager in working with vendors and suppliers to source high-quality meat products.
Help verify deliveries for accuracy and quality.
Foster positive relationships with vendors to ensure consistent supply and quality of products.
Help develop creative displays to highlight seasonal or featured meat products.
Ensure proper signage and pricing accuracy in collaboration with store leadership.
Assist marketing efforts to promote meat sales and department initiatives.
Ensure adherence to food safety standards, workplace safety protocols, and health regulations.
Train staff on proper meat handling, labeling, and storage practices.
Monitor and maintain department equipment, ensuring it remains in good working order.
Support compliance with organic and other applicable product certifications.
Participate in storewide initiatives, meetings, and events.
Assist with special order systems and organization of department processes.
Promote the Co-op’s Principles and Mission, encouraging membership and community engagement.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Meat Manager or Store Manager.