About this role
About Us: Uwajimaya is more than just a grocery store — were a vibrant cultural destination with a rich history rooted in family, community, and food. Since 1928, weve grown into the Pacific Northwests premier Asian retailer, known for our wide selection, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to sharing the diverse traditions of Asian cultures. We take pride in creating a one-of-a-kind experience for customers and employees alike — one thats centered around food, culture, and people.
Why Join Uwajimaya?
At Uwajimaya, we believe in nurturing growth — in our communities, our customers, and our team members. We foster an environment built on collaboration, curiosity, and care. Whether you're starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to make a meaningful impact in a workplace that values tradition, innovation, and connection.
Who We're Looking For
Were looking for team members who are collaborative, thoughtful, and passionate about making a difference. Whether youre serving customers, supporting operations, or leading a team, you bring a people-first mindset and a strong work ethic. If you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and believe in the power of inclusion, community, and connection — youll feel right at home here.
To thrive at Uwajimaya, you should embody our core competencies:
- Functional/Technical Skills: You possess the necessary functional and technical knowledge to perform your job at a high level.
- Customer Focus: You are dedicated to meeting customer expectations and requirements, using feedback for improvements, and building effective relationships based on trust and respect.
- Action Oriented: You enjoy working hard, are full of energy for challenging tasks, and seize opportunities with minimal planning.
- Peer Relationships: You can find common ground with peers, solve problems collaboratively, and are seen as a cooperative team player who encourages collaboration.
- Self-Development: You are committed to continuous self-improvement, adapt to different situations, and work to develop your strengths while addressing weaknesses.
We offer:
- A flexible, inclusive, and friendly work culture
- Competitive starting wages
- Paid holidays from day one
- Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits
- A generous retirement plan
- Paid time off, long-term disability, and life insurance
- Employee discounts on food and gift items
- Supplemental insurance options
- Opportunities for growth and advancement
Position Summary :
The Meat Cutter – Apprentice (Union) at Uwajimaya prioritizes excellent customer service by providing the freshest meat in the Pacific Northwest and fulfilling customer requests for the preparation and cutting of meat products to Uwajimaya standards. They excel in accommodating customer requests for meat preparation and/or cutting, demonstrating in-depth product knowledge, accuracy in pricing and weight, and providing valuable cooking technique recommendations.
Positions Key Responsibilities :
- Provide excellent customer service and maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor.
- Identify and cut various types of meat, presenting a variety of meat items.
- Ensure adherence to health department and company policies to maintain a safe environment for both dining and workplace activities.
- Prepare traditional and specialty cuts, ensuring compliance with department standards.
- Weigh, wrap, and label meat accurately, adhering to COOL guidelines.
- Attractively display products, maintain stock levels, and check quality throughout the day.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels to meet business needs.
- Purchase quality meat from approved vendors, following department procedures.
- Receive, inspect, and store incoming products, ensuring proper rotation and cleanliness.
- Coordinate returns and credits, maintaining accurate accounting records.
- Provide information on product use, benefits, and offer recipes and menu suggestions.
- Cross-merchandise and upsell products when opportunities arise.
- Handle customer complaints and escalate as needed.
- Keep the meat department, counters, display cases, and equipment clean and organized.
- Other duties as assigned.
Starting Pay: $21.55/hr minimum; higher rates may apply based on experience and union contract
Pay Range: Per union collective bargaining agreement
Uwajimaya participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. Please review the E-Verify Participation Poster and Right to Work Poster before proceeding with your application
IER Right to Work Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 322.73 KB)
E-Verify Participation Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 259.92 KB)
Uwajimaya is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Qualifications
Position Requirements :
- Employment at the Bellevue, Renton, or Seattle Uwajimaya location, will require a union membership.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Minimum of a High school diploma or equivalent. May require up to 1 year of specialized training.
- Food Handlers Card.
- Prior retail experience and meat cutting experience, preferred.
- Excellent customer service and communication skills.
- Basic math proficiency, familiarity with ten-key/calculator, and comfortable using computers.
- Flexible schedule to accommodate varying shifts.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and proactively work independently.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.