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Food Production Associate Jobs in Murray, KY (NOW HIRING)

Description Production Hourly At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our ... Poultry or food industry experience is a plus. * Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly ...

Description Production Hourly At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our ... Poultry or food industry experience is a plus. * Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly ...

Description Production Hourly At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our ... Poultry or food industry experience is a plus. * Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly ...

Description Production Hourly At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our ... Poultry or food industry experience is a plus. * Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly ...

Description Production Hourly At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our ... Poultry or food industry experience is a plus. * Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly ...

In this hands-on position, you'll work on the processing line performing tasks such as cutting, trimming, packaging, and/or inspecting products to meet strict food safety and quality standards. You ...

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Food Production Associate information

See Murray, KY salary details

$7

$12

$16

How much do food production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for food production associate in Murray, KY is $12.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $14.23 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 Murray, KY?

The most popular types of Food Production jobs in Murray, KY are:

What cities near Murray, KY are hiring for Food Production Associate jobs?

Cities near Murray, KY with the most Food Production Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Production Associate job openings in Murray, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,280 per year, or $12.6 per hour.

Production Associate - Pilgrim's Pride

Mayfield, KY


Pilgrim's
Animal Farming • 10K+ employees

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers


$18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

Production Hourly

At Pilgrim’s, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members comes first - always.

Join our production team and play a vital role in delivering safe, high-quality poultry products to customers. In this hands-on position, you’ll work on the processing line performing tasks such as cutting, trimming, packaging, and/or inspecting products to meet strict food safety and quality standards. You’ll operate equipment, maintain a clean work area, and follow all safety and biosecurity guidelines. This is a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and teamwork are key. If you’re dependable, willing to learn, and ready to grow with a company committed to excellence, this is your opportunity to make an impact!

Responsibilities: 

  • Process poultry products using tools, manual labor, and equipment according to USDA and Pilgrim’s standards.
  • Monitor equipment operation and report malfunctions or safety concerns promptly.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area and follow all safety, food safety, and animal welfare guidelines.
  • Support team members by sharing skills and knowledge while promoting a positive work atmosphere.
  • Participate in continuous improvement and problem-solving initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to meet production and quality goals.
  • Demonstrate flexibility by performing tasks in different areas of production as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What You’ll Need: 

  • Education: High School Diploma/GED preferred.
  • Experience: Poultry or food industry experience is a plus.
  • Skills: Ability to multitask and work quickly, have good communication skills, ability to comprehend simple instructions and apply common sense, and must be a team player and be willing to work close to other employees at some stations. (Less than 3 feet apart.) 
  • Physical requirements: Ability to work in cool temperatures (around 40 degrees), ability to stand and use hands for 8-11 hours per day and lift 50 bs or more.

Why Work for Pilgrim’s? 

  • Schedule: Monday-Friday with some weekend work required;
  • Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment;
  • 401(k): company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule;
  • Base hourly salary rate of $18.25 with a $2.00 shift differential for 2nd and 3rd shift  
  • Career Development: Our company is dedicated to supporting professional growth by offering continuous learning opportunities and a focus on career growth through various learning and development programs;
  • Better Futures 

The Company is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our team members and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct drug, alcohol, and background checks for all new team members post-offer and prior to the start of employment. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility be documented for all new employees by the end of the third day of work.

About us: Pilgrim’s is a leading global food company with more than 62,000 team members worldwide. The company processes, prepares, packages, and delivers fresh, frozen, and value-added food products for customers in more than 100 countries. Pilgrim’s operates protein processing plants and prepared foods facilities in 14 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the U.K, the Republic of Ireland and continental Europe.

Our mission: To be the best in all that we do, completely focused on our business, ensuring the best products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers, profitability for our shareholders and the opportunity of a better future for all of our team members.

Our core values are: Availability, Determination, Discipline, Humility, Ownership, Simplicity, Sincerity

EOE, including disability/vets 

Unsolicited Assistance: JBS and its companies do not accept unsolicited assistance from any recruitment vendors for any of our open jobs. All resumes or candidate profiles submitted by recruitment vendors or headhunters to any employee at JBS and its companies or via the applicant tracking system, in any form without a valid written request and search agreement previously approved by HR, will be solely owned by JBS and its companies. No fees will be paid should the candidate be hired by JBS and its companies because of an unsolicited referral.


Pilgrim's logo

About Pilgrim's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pilgrim's is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, including well-recognized brands and value-added premium products. As one of the world's largest poultry producers, Pilgrim's has provided wholesome, quality products to customers and consumers for more than seven decades. It's our passion for excellence that continues to drive us to be the best, and we seek opportunities to diversify and grow.

Industry

Animal farming

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greeley, CO, US

Year founded

1946

Social media


What Pilgrim's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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