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Meat Industry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc.

Sales Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Chicago Meat Authority (CMA) is proud to have celebrated 36 years in the food industry. Located in Chicago's historic Stockyards, CMA is a forward thinking processor of value added beef, pork, and ...

Ridley's Family Markets, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Buhl, ID · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Ridley's Family Markets

Meat Cutter

Buhl, ID · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Ridley's Family Markets, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Buhl, ID · On-site

$13 - $17.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Sammamish, WA

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Ridley's Family Markets, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Tremonton, UT · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Sammamish, WA · On-site

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Tamus

Meat Science Laboratory Technician

Prairie View, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Five years of related experience in the meat industry. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Knowledge of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Food Safety and Inspection ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Metropolitan Market

Journey Meat Cutter

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.70/hr

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the meat industry and food safety requirements, including HACCP and Department of Health guidelines. * Ability to work a flexible schedule based upon the ...

Ridley's Family Markets

Meat Cutter - Part Time

Hyrum, UT

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Ridley's Family Markets

Meat Cutter - Part Time

Kuna, ID · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Ridley's Family Markets, Inc.

Meat Cutter - Part Time

Hyrum, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

Ridley's Family Markets, Inc.

Meat Cutter - Part Time

Kuna, ID · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

High School diploma or general education degree (GED); or related job experience, training or schooling in the seafood and meat industry is required. EQUIPMENT: Required to use or operate meat saw ...

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Meat Industry information

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How much do meat industry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat industry in the United States is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the meat industry, high-paying roles such as experienced butchers, plant supervisors, or specialized processing managers can earn around $4,000 weekly without a formal degree, often requiring extensive experience, skills, and certifications. These positions typically involve hands-on work, leadership, and knowledge of safety standards, with some roles offering overtime or shift differentials to reach that income level.

What is the meat industry?

The meat industry encompasses all businesses and activities involved in the production, processing, packaging, and distribution of meat from animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and poultry. This sector includes farms, slaughterhouses, processing plants, and retailers. The industry is responsible for supplying meat products to consumers and plays a significant role in the global food supply chain. It also addresses issues such as food safety, animal welfare, and environmental impact.

Who are the Big 4 in the meat industry?

The Big 4 companies in the meat industry are Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and Smithfield Foods. These corporations dominate the global meat processing market and often require workers to have knowledge of food safety standards and processing equipment. They offer a range of roles from processing to quality control within the industry.

What is the difference between Meat Industry vs Butcher?

AspectMeat IndustryButcher
CredentialsFood safety certifications, HACCP trainingMeat handling certifications, food safety training
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, slaughterhouses, retail storesButcher shops, grocery stores, meat departments
Employer & Industry UsageMeat processing companies, food productionRetail meat shops, supermarkets
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Meat Industry encompasses a broad range of roles involved in meat processing, production, and distribution, including butchers, meat packers, and processing plant workers. Butchers specifically focus on cutting, preparing, and selling meat products in retail settings. While both roles require food safety knowledge and certifications, the Meat Industry covers a wider scope of employment, whereas butchers primarily work in retail environments handling meat preparation and customer service.

What are jobs in the beef industry?

Jobs in the beef industry include roles such as butchers, meat processors, quality control inspectors, and farm workers. These positions often require knowledge of meat handling, safety standards, and sometimes certifications like HACCP. Workers typically operate in slaughterhouses, processing plants, or on farms, and may work in shifts to meet production demands.

How much do meat factory workers make?

Meat factory workers typically earn an average hourly wage of $12 to $16, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and whether the worker has specialized skills or certifications, such as food safety training. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase overall earnings.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in the meat industry, and how can they be managed?

Employees in the meat industry often encounter challenges such as physically demanding work, maintaining strict safety and hygiene standards, and adapting to fast-paced production schedules. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as roles often require close coordination with colleagues on the processing line. Many companies provide thorough training on equipment use and safety protocols to help manage these challenges, and workers are encouraged to take regular breaks and use proper protective gear. Developing resilience and focusing on safety can make the work environment safer and more manageable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the meat industry, and why are they important?

To thrive in the meat industry, you need knowledge of food safety, meat processing techniques, and relevant industry regulations, often supported by vocational training or certifications such as HACCP. Familiarity with meat processing equipment, quality control systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills are vital soft skills for ensuring operational efficiency and workplace safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining product quality, meeting regulatory standards, and supporting a safe and productive work environment.
More about Meat Industry jobs
What cities are hiring for Meat Industry jobs? Cities with the most Meat Industry job openings:
What states have the most Meat Industry jobs? States with the most job openings for Meat Industry jobs include:
Meat Industry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Industry job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,449 per year, or $19 per hour.

Sales Specialist

Home - Chicago Meat Authority, Inc

Chicago, IL

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Chicago Meat Authority (CMA) is proud to have celebrated 36 years in the food industry. Located in Chicago’s historic Stockyards, CMA is a forward thinking processor of value added beef, pork, and poultry items with a strong focus on selling the Healthcare, Hotel, and Institutional Markets (HRI), meat purveyors, and Multi-unit regional and national chains up to and including big box stores. In addition, CMA specializes in custom cuts for further processors including but not limited to grinding operations, deli manufacturers, and the prepared entrée market.

CMA is growing and seeking ambitious, motivated people who want to launch their sales career in the meat industry. This is a phone-based sales role where you’ll learn how to prospect, build relationships, and generate revenue. No prior experience in the food industry is necessary — we provide comprehensive training to teach you the meat business from the ground up. This entry-level position offers hands-on learning and the opportunity to gain valuable industry skills and knowledge. What we need from you is energy, persistence, and the ability to curate and manage a pipeline of qualified leads.

Why CMA?

At CMA, we don’t just hire salespeople – we build them. You’ll start in a high-energy sales role, learning the meat business and building a sales foundation that can lead to a long-term career. You’ll be involved in day-to-day sales activity and see how your work directly contributes to the business.

What You Get To Do:

  • Make outbound calls to prospective customers using provided target lists to generate new business opportunities.
  • Support existing CMA customers by building relationships and assisting with day-to-day inquiries and needs.
  • Participate in structured training to learn CMA’s product line and gain foundational knowledge of the meat industry.
  • Maintain accurate records of customer interactions and sales activity in CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems.
  • Work closely with senior sales team members to develop core sales skills and grow within the organization.
  • Assist with basic sales reporting, forecasting support, and internal coordination with operations as needed.
  • Provide general support to the sales and operations teams, taking on additional tasks and projects as assigned.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or Agriculture preferred; motivated individuals eager to launch a career in the sales industry.
  • Strong communication skills and a willingness to build confidence in a phone-based sales environment.
  • Self-motivated, positive, and coachable — open to feedback and eager to learn.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with clear goals and support.
  • Basic computer skills, including email, spreadsheets, and willingness to learn CRM systems.

What We Value:

  • Outgoing personality with great communication skills
  • Goal-oriented and motivated by results
  • Comfortable working in face-to-face environments

Compensation:

  • Base salary: $50,000 - $60,000
  • Bonus potential

Benefits:

  • Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, LifeLock)
  • 401(k) Employer Match - 50% of your first 6%
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays

Employee Perks:

  • Meat Purchase Program
  • On-site fitness center
  • Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan

We Are Winning When:

We follow and are guided by our mission and we demonstrate our values every day!

"To be the preferred supplier of our customers, the preferred customer of our strategic suppliers, and a model employer in our industry."

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Apply