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Meat Grader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meat Cutter

Opelousas, LA ยท On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Labels meat to indicate cut, grade, preparation date, best-by date, and other relevant information. * Maintains the sharpness, cleanliness, and sterilization of knives and tools. * Ensures ...

Meat Wrapper

Mobile, AL ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Pensacola, FL ยท On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Prichard, AL ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

MEAT WRAPPER

Millry, AL ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing quality & grade of products * Space allocation and location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Bayou La Batre, AL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Ellisville, MS ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Quitman, MS ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Mobile, AL ยท On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Robertsdale, AL ยท On-site

$12.25 - $15/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

State Line, MS ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Vancleave, MS ยท On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

MEAT WRAPPER

Millry, AL ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing quality & grade of products * Space allocation and location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Jay, FL ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Mobile, AL ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Mount Olive, MS ยท On-site

$12 - $14.50/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

AL ยท On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Millry, AL ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

Meat Wrapper

Semmes, AL ยท On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Meat Wrapper The key to a successful Meat Department starts with the people. Training and ... Knowing Quality & Grade of Products * Space Allocation and Location (explain why) * Cleaning and ...

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Meat Grader information

See salary details

$9

$17

$30

How much do meat grader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat grader in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a meat grader?

Meat graders are professionals responsible for evaluating the quality and safety of meat products in processing plants and slaughterhouses. They inspect meat for factors such as texture, color, marbling, and fat distribution, assigning grades based on established standards. Their assessments help ensure that meat sold to consumers meets quality and safety requirements, and the grades influence pricing and marketability. Meat graders typically work for government agencies or meat processing companies and require training in food safety and inspection procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a meat grader, and why are they important?

To excel as a Meat Grader, you need a solid understanding of meat quality standards, anatomy, and grading procedures, often obtained through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with grading tools, inspection equipment, and regulatory systems like USDA grading standards is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately assessing products and working with processing teams. These skills ensure consistent product quality, compliance with regulations, and help maintain consumer trust in the food supply chain.

What are some common challenges faced by meat graders in their daily work?

Meat graders often face challenges such as working in cold environments for extended periods, maintaining concentration while inspecting large volumes of meat, and adhering to strict food safety and quality standards. The role requires keen attention to detail, as even minor inconsistencies can affect grading accuracy. Collaboration with butchers, quality assurance staff, and production teams is essential to ensure that grading aligns with both regulatory requirements and customer expectations.

What is the difference between Meat Grader vs Meat Inspector?

AspectMeat GraderMeat Inspector
CertificationsMeat grading certifications, USDA approvalUSDA certification, food safety training
Work EnvironmentMeat processing plants, grading stationsProcessing plants, regulatory agencies
Employer & Industry UsageMeat packing companies, USDAGovernment agencies, USDA, meat processing facilities

Meat Graders evaluate meat quality based on marbling, color, and texture, assigning grades for sale and processing. Meat Inspectors focus on ensuring meat safety, inspecting for contamination, disease, and compliance with health standards. While both roles work in meat processing environments and require USDA certifications, Meat Graders concentrate on quality grading, whereas Meat Inspectors prioritize safety and regulatory compliance.

How do you become a meat grader?

To become a meat grader, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may complete on-the-job training or certification programs in meat grading. Knowledge of meat quality standards, inspection procedures, and the use of grading tools is essential, and some positions require passing a certification exam from a relevant authority.
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Cities with the most Meat Grader job openings:

What states have the most Meat Grader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Meat Grader jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Meat Grader jobs?

For Meat Grader jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Meat Grader job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Meat Cutter-Specialist-Heber

Heber, UT โ€ข On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform skilled cutting, boning, trimming, grinding, and portioning of meat products according to company standards.

  • Assist guests with custom meat orders, provide product recommendations, and educate them on cuts and cooking methods.

  • Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and proper storage of meat products, equipment, and work areas.


Job description

Position Summary:
Lee's Marketplace is a family-owned grocery chain committed to providing an enjoyable shopping experience for our guests. We pride ourselves on offering high-quality products, exceptional service, and a friendly, welcoming environment. We value our team members and treat them like family, and we strive to make a positive impact in the communities in which we serve.
The Meat Cutter Specialist is a highly skilled team member responsible for breaking down, cutting, trimming, and preparing various meat products according to company standards and guest preferences. In addition to advanced cutting techniques, the Meat Cutter Specialist provides exceptional service by assisting guests with custom orders, educating them on cuts and cooking methods, and maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organized workspace. Once primary meat cutting responsibilities are completed, the Meat Cutter Specialist is expected to support other department needs-including stocking, cleaning, and assisting team members-under the direction of leadership.
Primary Position Duties:
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform skilled cutting, boning, trimming, grinding, and portioning of beef, pork, poultry, and seafood products.
  • Execute custom meat cutting requests while maintaining accuracy and guest satisfaction.
  • Ensure all meat products are properly displayed, rotated, and merchandised in the case.
  • Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in cutting areas and equipment.
  • Adhere to food safety, temperature, and storage guidelines at all times.
  • Assist with receiving, inspecting, and storing meat deliveries.
  • Operate and maintain department equipment (band saws, slicers, grinders, knives) safely and efficiently.
  • Stay knowledgeable about meat grades, cuts, cooking methods, and guest preferences.
  • Collaborate with the Meat Manager and team on inventory needs, promotions, and merchandising strategies.
  • Provide outstanding guest service through product knowledge, recommendations, and custom solutions.
  • Follow department procedures and help train junior staff or meat clerks as needed.
  • Other responsibilities as needed.
Guest Service:
  • Greet and assist guests in a friendly and courteous manner.
  • Provide knowledgeable answers to guest inquiries.
  • Provide knowledgeable, expert-level assistance to guest inquiries by offering product recommendations, cooking tips, and guidance on meat cuts, preparation methods, and alternatives based on their needs.
  • Promote and exemplify a high level of morale within department and store, utilizing friendly but professional methods of honest and open communication with guests and team members.
  • Provides excellent guest service by acknowledging guests promptly and taking their orders accurately. Prepares and processes the guest's orders promptly and finalizes their purchase in a friendly manner.
  • Displays excellent problems solving skills and prides themselves on finding the best resolution that exemplifies the "Lee's Way- doing what's best for our guests, our team, and our company".
  • Be familiar with, and assist customers with use of, Lee's Marketplace website.
Product Handling:
  • Store raw and prepared meat products at correct temperatures and in designated areas to prevent cross-contamination and ensure freshness.
  • Follow First-In, First-Out (FIFO) procedures to minimize waste and ensure older inventory is used or sold first.
  • Carefully transport meat products from receiving to storage, prep areas, and display cases while avoiding temperature abuse or physical damage.
  • Accurately wrap, weigh, and label all products with correct descriptions, pricing, and dates in compliance with food safety regulations.
  • Handle large cuts of meat and break them down into portions for case display, guest orders, or repackaging-ensuring uniformity and proper yield.
  • Always use clean, sanitized tools and gloves while handling products to prevent contamination. Regularly clean and sanitize workstations, cutting boards, and equipment.
  • Properly dispose of scraps and inedible parts, and document any product shrink or spoilage according to department guidelines.
  • Assist in receiving meat shipments, checking for quality, temperature, and accuracy against invoices. Report any issues or discrepancies to the Meat Manager.
  • Identify and prepare usable trim or leftover portions for ground meat or other value-added items while minimizing loss.
  • Handle and place meat products into display cases in a clean, attractive, and guest-friendly manner, ensuring labels face forward and products remain chilled.
  • Participate in the stocking of shelves and maintaining displays according to store standards.
  • Unloading deliveries and organizing stock rooms as needed. Checking all incoming items for quality and expiration dates.
  • Ensures that all recipes are followed accurately to maintain product consistency and quality.
  • Minimize product waste by tracking production quantities against sales. Adjust production amounts based on demand to avoid excess unsold goods.
  • Ensure that any waste is disposed of properly or recycled according to store policies.
  • Implement merchandising strategies to highlight seasonal or promotional items.
Cleanliness and Safety:
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Follow all safety and sanitation procedures.
  • Ensures that all products are stored at the proper temperatures to prevent spoilage.
  • Conduct regular temperature checks on coolers and freezers to ensure food safety.
  • Assists with overseeing hygiene practices for all Meat staff, including regular hand washing, use of gloves, and proper sanitation of equipment.
  • Monitor and enforce daily and weekly sanitation routines, including cleaning equipment, tools, and surfaces.
  • Train and certify staff in proper food safety, meat handling, and equipment use procedures.
  • Responsible for preventing workplace injuries by consistently using proper safety tools, equipment, and procedures when operating machinery and handling sharp tools.
  • Report any safety hazards or equipment issues to the Meat Manager.
  • Adhere to all food safety and sanitation regulations.
  • Contributes towards the cleaning responsibilities in the department.
Team Collaboration:
  • Work cooperatively with team members to achieve store goals.
  • Encourage all team members to reach the highest level of teamwork and guest service at all times. Communicate and support the Lee's MarketPlace Mission statement and Core Values
  • Participate in team meetings and training sessions.
  • Assist other departments as needed.
  • Work in a fast-paced, sometimes crowded, production environment with tact and patience.
  • Work with team to ensure products are sold well before their expiration date.
  • Work closely with other department managers to support cross-functional tasks or promotions.
  • Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and recognition to team members.
  • Foster a positive team environment that encourages accountability and mutual respect.
  • Attend departmental, store, and company meetings as required; contributes to profits and revenues and meets productivity standards.
  • Has knowledge of and complies with all company policies, procedures, programs, and directives. Refers to Team Member Handbook continually to ensure policies and procedures are followed. Promotes a harassment-free environment, and immediately reports any potential harmful situation to management.
  • Be a professional example for all team members to follow.
Position Requirements:
  • Age Requirement: 18yrs+
  • Availability: Flexible-including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, twist, sit, and bend for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Manual dexterity for handling small objects and operating equipment.
  • Repetitive use of hands and arms to push, pull, carry, lift, reach, grip, and balance.
  • Occasionally stoop, crouch, kneel, or crawl.
  • Prolonged periods standing and walking.
  • Must be able to access and navigate all areas of the store.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
  • Lifting may include floor to shoulder and overhead lifting repeatedly.
  • Occasional use and climbing of step stools or ladders are required.
Tools and Machinery:
  • Pallet jack
  • Wheeler
  • Trash compactor
  • Grinders
  • Blades/slicers/knives
  • Wrapping machine
  • Scales
  • Sheeters
  • Trays, pans, racks,
  • Tempering tools
  • Temperature-controlled rooms
  • Computers
  • Phones
  • Any other items seen fit for role.
Education or Skills:
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in retail or guest service.
  • 2+ years previous experience in meat cutting (retail or butcher shop preferred).
  • Strong knowledge of meat products, processing techniques, and food safety regulations.
Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to write, speak, hear, and understand the spoken word to respond promptly to pages, requests, team members, and guests.
  • Strong leadership abilities, with experience in training and developing staff.
  • Proven ability to motivate and inspire a team to achieve goals.
  • Strong analytical and decision-making skills to address operational challenges.
  • Ability to implement solutions quickly and effectively.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage various department operations simultaneously.
  • Ability to learn new technology quickly.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to handle customer inquiries and complaints effectively.
  • Strong math skills.
  • Ability to read and follow instructions.
  • Good verbal communication skills.
Benefits:
Compensation:
  • Competitive hourly wage/salary
  • Paid time and a quarter on Sundays
  • Benefits packages including health insurance, Disability plans, EAP, 401k plans, and Supplemental Insurances.
  • 10% discount, restrictions apply.
  • Ace Hardware Discount at Lees Ace Hardware locations
  • Paid Time Off to those who qualify.
Work Environment:
  • Friendly and supportive team atmosphere.
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
  • Safety forward atmosphere
  • Innovative, supportive, and input driven management team.

Lee's Marketplace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.
Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Team members may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.