Job Description

Fish Cutter & Cleaning
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Industry: Retail (Hypermarkets, Specialty Fish Markets), Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants), Wholesale Fish Markets
Report To: Seafood Department Manager, Head Butcher, or Kitchen Chef
Job Overview:
A Fish Cutter & Cleaning professional, or Fishmonger, is responsible for receiving, preparing, processing, and displaying fresh and frozen fish and seafood. The role requires expert knowledge of different fish species, precise cutting techniques, and stringent adherence to hygiene and safety standards to ensure the highest quality product for customers and kitchen use.
Key Responsibilities:

• Receiving & Storage: Inspect deliveries of fresh and frozen fish/seafood for quality, freshness, and weight. Ensure proper rotation (FIFO - First In, First Out) and store products immediately in correct temperature-controlled environments (chillers, freezers, ice beds).
• Preparation & Processing: Skillfully clean, gut, scale, fillet, and portion a wide variety of fish (local and imported) and seafood (prawns, crabs, lobsters, etc.) according to customer requests, recipe specifications, or display standards.
• Cutting Expertise: Perform advanced cuts including filleting (boneless), steaking, butterflying, and dicing. Ability to debone whole fish neatly is essential.
• Customer Service: Interact directly with customers at the counter, providing advice on fish selection, flavor profiles, and cooking methods. Handle custom orders with precision and professionalism.
• Display & Merchandising: Create visually appealing and abundant displays of seafood on ice. Ensure labels are accurate (name, price, origin) and the display area is constantly replenished, clean, and well-organized.
• Equipment & Area Maintenance: Maintain all tools (fillet knives, cleavers, scalers) in sharp and sanitary condition. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the work area, cutting boards, counters, and equipment at the start, during, and end of each shift. Dispose of waste properly.
• Compliance: Strictly follow all UAE food safety regulations (HACCP principles), health department codes, and company hygiene policies. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience (2+ years) as a Fish Cutter, Fishmonger, or in a seafood processing role.
• In-depth knowledge of fish and seafood species, anatomy, and freshness indicators.
• Exceptional manual dexterity and proficiency with specialized knives and tools.
• High stamina to work in a cold, wet environment and stand for long periods.
• Physical strength to lift heavy crates (up to 25 kg).
• Basic English communication skills; Arabic or other languages are a plus.
• Food Handler's Certificate or equivalent is highly preferred.
• Understanding of UAE's food safety standards is mandatory.

Work Environment:
Fast-paced, cold, and wet. Requires early morning shifts, especially if working at a wholesale market. Must handle sharp tools and work with slippery products.

Skills Required