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Food Production Associate Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Simos

Production Associate

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15/hr

Description Staff Management | SMX is immediately hiring Production Associates at the Mars Petcare ... Associates will be required to comply with all Food Manufacturing GMP policies and procedures.

Butterball

Food Production - 2nd Shift

Ozark, AR · On-site

$18.50/hr

Evisceration Production Associates perform tasks to clean and eviscerate (remove the organs of) recently-slaughtered turkeys to prepare for additional processing and packaging. Essential duties ...

Butterball

Production Associate-EVIS 2nd SHIFT

Ozark, AR · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Supports all Food Safety initiatives. Minimum Qualifications (Educations & Experience) High School Diploma or related preferred Entry level does not require previous experience in a Production role ...

Compass Group

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Russellville, AR · On-site

$14/hr

One year of food service experience is required, and food production is preferred. * Fixed Pay Rate ... With more than 16,000 associates in 4,300 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small ...

The Pictsweet Company

Sanitation Associate

Clarksville, AR · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Sanitation Associate The Pictsweet Company is growing! A 4th generation family owned company ... The role ensures safety systems are in place for operation and production of quality food ...

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Food Production Associate information

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How much do food production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for food production associate in Arkansas is $12.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.53 and $14.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food production associate?

Food Production Associates are workers who assist in the preparation, packaging, and quality control of food products in manufacturing or processing facilities. Their responsibilities often include operating machinery, following recipes or production guidelines, maintaining cleanliness and safety standards, and monitoring products for quality. They play a key role in ensuring that food items are produced efficiently and meet health and safety regulations before reaching consumers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food production associate?

To thrive as a Food Production Associate, you need knowledge of food safety standards, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food processing equipment, HACCP protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food production that meets regulatory and company standards.

What are some common challenges faced by food production associates, and how can they be managed?

Food Production Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, meeting high production quotas, and adapting to fast-paced work environments. Successfully managing these challenges involves following proper safety protocols, staying organized, and collaborating effectively with team members. Open communication with supervisors and ongoing training also help associates stay updated on best practices and regulations, ensuring a smooth workflow and product quality.

What is the difference between Food Production Associate vs Food Processing Worker?

AspectFood Production AssociateFood Processing Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require food safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires food safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, food manufacturing plantsFood processing facilities, manufacturing plants, packaging lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, processing plantsFood processing companies, packaging facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Food Production Associate and a Food Processing Worker lies in their specific roles within food manufacturing. Food Production Associates typically focus on assembling, packaging, and quality checks on production lines, while Food Processing Workers may be involved in more specialized processing tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, and they are often used interchangeably in the industry. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Production jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Food Production jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Food Production Associate jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Food Production Associate job openings:

Food Production Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Production Associate job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,433 per year, or $12.7 per hour.

Production Associate

Simos

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description
Staff Management | SMX is immediately hiring Production Associates at the Mars Petcare factory in Ft. Smith, AR! Associates receive pay increases after 90 days and 1 year, per eligibility requirements.Apply today or email your resume to office0722@smxstaffing.com!
Available Shifts:
  • 1st Shift: 6:00 am - 2:30 pm $14/hr
  • 2nd Shift: 2:30 pm - 11 pm $15/hr
  • 3rd Shift: 10:30 pm - 7:00 am $14.50/hr
  • Day Shift (12-hour shift): 6:00 am - 6:30 pm $14/hr
  • Night Shift (12-hour shift): 6:00 pm - 6:30 am $14.50/hr

Perks & Benefits
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Climate Controlled Environment
  • Modern, high tech Environment
  • Other on the spot perks
  • Paid Training
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Direct Deposit or Cash Card pay options
  • Medical / Dental Insurance
  • STD /LTD
  • Life Insurance
  • Referral Bonus (Restrictions Apply)
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • $14.00 - $15.00 /Hour
  • Bonus is per eligibility requirements

Employment Type & Shifts
  • Full Time
  • Long Term

  • All Shifts

Job Responsibilities
  • Picking, packing, and sorting bags of product into cases while ensuring correct count and configuration.
  • Palletize cases and prepare for shipment.
  • Ensure product quality standards for all aspects of assigned job.
  • Maintain sanitation; keep the work area clean.
  • Follow written standardized manufacturing operating procedures or work instructions.
  • Pick and pack product according to written standards.
  • Perform routine quality inspections.
  • Have the ability to lift 20-55 lbs. as needed.
  • Maintain site 5-S, or, if production is down, adhere to the cleaning policy.

  • Manufacturing associates must pass basic math and reading tests.
  • If hired, associates must wear company-issued uniforms and slip-resistant steel-toe shoes.
  • Associates will be required to comply with all Food Manufacturing GMP policies and procedures.
  • This is a non-tobacco facility; no tobacco is allowed on the factory premises.
  • Mandatory steel-toe shoes

Associate Requirements
  • HS Diploma or GED
  • Background Check
  • Able to Lift 50 pounds
  • Drug Test
  • Stand for Shift Duration
  • Must be at least 18 years old

Apply