Meat and Seafood Specialist

The Merc Co+op; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

HSA/FSAs

Employee Assistance Program

PTO

Paid holidays

401(k) match

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Training opportunities

Job summary

The Merc Co+op in Lawrence is seeking a knowledgeable Meat & Seafood Specialist to lead daily operations, blending hands-on production with outstanding customer service and mentoring for the department. This senior role works with leadership to maintain quality, safety, and merchandise standards while supporting team development.

Ideal candidates have meat/seafood or related experience and a passion for a community-focused fresh department. Join a cooperative that values service and learning.

Qualifications

• Experience in meat/seafood, grocery, deli, or related environments.
• Strong customer service and teamwork.
• Able to work independently and in a team.
• Strong communication and organization skills.
• Able to coach coworkers in a positive manner.
• Knowledge of food safety practices.
• ServSafe or equivalent certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support daily Meat & Seafood operations with leadership.
• Ensure product quality and food safety standards.
• Provide exceptional customer service and training to team.
• Assist with merchandising and department operations.

Skills

Meat & Seafood experience

Customer service

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Food safety awareness

ServSafe knowledge

Job description

Help Lead One of Lawrence's Most Respected Fresh Departments

The Merc Co+op is seeking a knowledgeable, customer-focused Meat & Seafood Specialist to help support the daily operations of our Meat & Seafood Department. This position combines hands‑on production work, exceptional customer service, and team leadership support in a department known for quality, service, and food expertise.

This position serves as a senior department team member and may assist with training, mentoring, and day‑to‑day operational support within the Meat & Seafood Department.

As a Meat & Seafood Specialist, you will work alongside department leadership to maintain high standards for product quality, food safety, merchandising, and customer service while helping train and support other team members. This role is ideal for someone with previous meat, seafood, grocery, deli, food service, or food production experience who enjoys working with people and takes pride in their work.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in meat and seafood, grocery, deli, food service, food production, restaurant, or related environments preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to customer service and teamwork.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to support and coach coworkers in a positive and professional manner.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred.
• ServSafe or other food safety certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in refrigerated environments.
• Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the workday.

This position requires flexibility to meet department and business needs, including availability for:

• Early morning shifts
• Evening shifts
• Holidays

Schedules may vary based on operational requirements and staffing needs.

Eligible employees may be offered a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Company-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid holidays (where applicable)
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching opportunities
• Life and disability insurance options
• Training, development, and advancement opportunities

Why The Merc?

For more than 50 years, The Merc Co+op has been committed to providing high-quality food, supporting local producers, building community, and creating a workplace where employees can learn, contribute, and grow. We believe in teamwork, service, sustainability, and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.

Starting pay within the range will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and internal equity considerations.

The Merc Co+op is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation during the application, testing, or interview process may request assistance by contacting Human Resources.