Meat Assistant – Costco – Kitchener, ON
Location: Kitchener, ON | Company: Costco Wholesale
Costco’s warehouse in Kitchener, Ontario is looking for a Meat Assistant to join their meat department team at the 4438 King Street East location. If you have experience in a meat department or food production environment and take pride in delivering quality products, this could be a solid fit for you.
This hands-on role puts you right in the middle of the meat department’s daily operations — from operating the wrapping machine and meat grinder to stocking display cases and maintaining a clean, food-safe workspace. It’s active, detail-oriented work that keeps things moving throughout the day.
About the Role: Meat Assistant
As a Meat Assistant, you’ll be responsible for a range of tasks that keep the meat department running smoothly. You’ll work with automatic wrapping equipment, apply labels with accurate pricing, stock display cases, and operate the meat grinder — checking fat content to ensure consistency and quality in every batch. The work follows a structured daily routine, starting with inspecting and reassembling equipment that was sanitized the night before, then reworking the display case and rotating product.
Compliance with health and safety standards is a core part of the job. You’ll be expected to follow food safety protocols, maintain proper temperatures, sanitize your work area throughout the day, and perform routine equipment maintenance. Providing prompt and courteous member service is also part of the role, as is helping out in other areas of the warehouse when needed.
Benefits and Salary
This position offers a pay rate of $20.00 per hour. Costco is well known for offering its employees competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, making it one of the more sought-after employers in Canadian retail and warehouse operations.
Job Details
🏢 Company: Costco
📍 Location: 4438 King Street East, Kitchener, ON N2P 2G4
💰 Pay: $20.00 per hour
📌 Job Type: Hourly
Responsibilities
The Meat Assistant role involves a consistent daily routine centred around food production, equipment operation, and maintaining a safe, sanitary workspace. Each task plays a direct role in ensuring product quality and a well-stocked display case for Costco members.
- Inspect and reassemble equipment sanitized from the previous night, then rework the display case and rotate product
- Operate the automatic wrapping machine by loading large trays of styro-packaged meat from wheeled racks into the machine
- Set the labeler according to product type and price, then print and apply labels accurately to each package
- Stock display cases by placing wrapped and labelled meat on large trays and loading them through sliding windows or moving racks to the floor
- Operate the meat grinder, loading meat into the machine and checking fat content of each batch to ensure quality and consistency
- Clean and sanitize the work area throughout the day in compliance with health code and sanitation standards
- Perform routine maintenance on machinery, equipment, and implements
- Provide prompt and courteous service to members, and assist in other areas of the warehouse as needed
Requirements / Skills
Costco is looking for a candidate who is reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced food production environment. Prior experience in a meat department is a definite asset, and candidates with that background will be given preference during the hiring process.
- Food Safety Certification – Level 1 is required on your first day in the position
- Meat wrapping experience is preferred and will be given priority in the selection process
- High School Diploma or GED is preferred
- Ability to follow safety and security procedures and adhere to health code requirements, including sanitation standards and temperature monitoring
- Physical capability to handle large trays, operate machinery, and remain on your feet throughout a shift
- For positions at Quebec locations, candidates must be able to communicate in French (oral and written)
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official job posting using the link below. Make sure your resume is up to date and that your Food Safety Certification – Level 1 is in order before submitting.
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Job Summary & Tips for Applying
Quick Summary & What to Highlight: This Meat Assistant role at Costco in Kitchener is perfect for candidates who excel in meat department operations, food safety compliance, and equipment operation. On your resume, emphasize any experience with meat wrapping machines, meat grinders, or display case stocking, along with your attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. If you’ve previously worked in a grocery, butcher, or food production setting, make sure to highlight specific achievements and responsibilities that align with this position.
Resume & Application Tips: Before applying, tailor your resume to match the job description. Include keywords like meat wrapping, food safety, and sanitation standards that appear in the posting. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “processed 200+ packages per shift” or “maintained department sanitation scores above standard”). Write a brief cover letter expressing your genuine interest in Costco and why you’re a strong fit for this role in Kitchener. Double-check your application for spelling errors and ensure your contact information is current.
Interview Preparation: If selected for an interview, research Costco‘s values, member-first culture, and reputation as an employer beforehand. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate your food handling, equipment operation, and safety compliance skills. Common questions may include scenarios about maintaining food safety standards, working under time pressure, and handling repetitive physical tasks. Dress appropriately for a warehouse and food production environment, arrive 10–15 minutes early, and bring copies of your resume. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team structure, and scheduling. After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours reiterating your interest in the position.