Overview
Fishmongers prepare and sell fish to customers. They help customers to choose what they want. Then they weigh the fish and wrap it. Fishmongers use will use sharp knives to cut and prepare fish and ensure they keep the fish at the right temperature. The fishmonger also keeps the shop tidy and makes sure that all the equipment, counters and floors are clean.
Activities
- Cutting up fish, taking out the bones and removing the heads
- Talking to customers about fish and how to cook it
- Weighing fish and wrapping it
- Taking payment from customers
- Checking that the fish is stored safely
- Keeping the shop and all the equipment clean
- Ordering fish and receiving deliveries
Organisations
Fishmongers can work for independent shops or market stalls or they may own a business themselves. They may also work in a supermarket chain.
Workplace
Fishmongers mainly spend their time indoors in a shop or supermarket but those on market stalls are outside in all weathers.
Working Hours
Fishmongers generally work about 40 hours a week, although there are opportunities for part-time work. Many jobs offer part-time work only.
Salary
Pay when starting is about £16,000 to £17,000 per year.
Qualifications
There are no set qualifications for entry into this type of work. Fishmongery involves weighing things out and dealing with money, so it is important to have good number skills. Many employers will want you to have some GCSEs, particularly English and Maths some will be more flexible.
You could also apply for an apprenticeship. If you have an EHCP you may be able to apply under the DfE exemption which allows the apprentice to use Entry Level 3 English and Maths qualifications.
The apprentice would have to be competent enough to successfully achieve all other aspects of the apprenticeship requirements, become occupationally competent and achieve Entry Level 3 in English and Maths before the end of their apprenticeship.