A fish filleter earns on average between {min} and {max} {period}. Early morning starts and weekend work in retail can bring extra pay.
Data last updated on 2 August 2026
What does a FishFilleter do?
As a fish filleter, you clean, cut and fillet fish, then store, pack and stock it in the right way. Also known as a fish trimmer, fish sorter or fishmonger's assistant, you first check that deliveries are correct and sort the catch. You fillet the fish, open shellfish and crustaceans and sometimes prepare fish and seafood dishes. You pack and store the goods, clean your tools and keep your workstation in order. Throughout, you work in a food-safe and hygienic way, because freshness and cleanliness decide the quality. In Belgium you find this trade in the food retail sector, from fishmongers to processing workshops, a hands-on job for people who like working with fresh produce.
Typical tasks
- Check that deliveries are correct and sort the catch
- Fillet fish and open shellfish and crustaceans
- Prepare fish and seafood when needed
- Pack and store the goods correctly
- Clean tools and equipment after use
- Keep the workstation tidy and in order
- Work in a food-safe and hygienic way at all times
Required skills
How to apply via Werkvolk?
- Download the appInstall the free Werkvolk app for iOS or Android.
- See FishFilleter matchesSwipe through vacancies that fit your profile and preferences.
- Chat with employersOn a match you talk directly to the employer, no middleman.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions about applying via Werkvolk.
What does a Fish filleter do?
A fish filleter cleans, cuts and fillets fish and stores, packs and stocks it correctly. You check deliveries, sort the catch, open shellfish and crustaceans and sometimes prepare fish and seafood. You clean your tools, keep your workstation in order and always work in a food-safe and hygienic way, because freshness and cleanliness decide the quality of the product.
How much does a Fish filleter earn in Belgium?
In Belgium a fish filleter usually earns between 13 and 17 euro per hour gross. The exact pay depends on your experience, the employer and whether you work in retail or a processing workshop. Early morning starts and weekend shifts in food retail can bring premiums on top of the base rate.
What can you grow into from a fish filleter role?
With experience you can take on more responsibility in a fish workshop or shop, train new colleagues or move towards a fishmonger or sales role. Your knife skills and food safety knowledge also transfer well to other fresh food trades. Roles such as butcher, charcutier or cheesemaker show related craft jobs where careful preparation and hygiene are central.
In which environment does a fish filleter work?
You work in the food retail sector, in fishmongers, market stalls, supermarkets and fish processing workshops. Much of the work happens in cold, wet and busy surroundings where hygiene rules are strict. The job sits at the crossroads of trade, food and working with produce from the sea, so an interest in fresh food and handling perishable goods fits it well.
What is the difference between a fish filleter and a fish scaler?
A fish scaler focuses mainly on cleaning and descaling fish, one step in the wider process, while a fish filleter carries out the full range of tasks from sorting and cleaning to filleting, packing and storing. In practice these roles often overlap in the same workshop or shop. As a fish filleter you master the complete handling of the catch, not just the descaling step.