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Meat Processing Engineer Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods

Senior Project Engineer

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred. * Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.

Smithfield Foods

Senior Project Engineer

Smithfield, VA

$85K - $120K/yr

Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.Knowledge ...

All JobsMeat Processing Engineer JobsMeat Processing Engineer Jobs in Norfolk, VA

Meat Processing Engineer information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$5

$17

$23

How much do meat processing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing engineer in Norfolk, VA is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a meat processing engineer?

Meat Processing Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and oversee processes and equipment used in the production, packaging, and distribution of meat and meat products. They work to ensure efficiency, safety, and quality throughout the meat processing chain, from slaughtering to packaging. Their role often includes implementing automation, maintaining food safety standards, and optimizing production lines to reduce waste and costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a meat processing engineer?

To excel as a Meat Processing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, food science, and meat processing technologies, usually supported by a relevant degree such as mechanical, industrial, or food engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, automated processing systems, and regulatory standards like HACCP is essential, and certifications in food safety are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and optimize production processes. These abilities ensure product quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety and industry regulations in a highly technical and regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced by meat processing engineers during production line optimization?

Meat Processing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency improvements with strict food safety regulations, managing equipment maintenance to minimize downtime, and optimizing workflows without compromising product quality. They must collaborate closely with quality assurance, maintenance, and production teams to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions that meet both productivity and safety standards. Additionally, adapting to new technologies or process changes requires continuous learning and effective communication across departments.

What is the difference between Meat Processing Engineer vs Meat Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectMeat Processing EngineerMeat Quality Assurance Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in food safetyFood safety certifications, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, engineering labsQuality control labs, processing facilities
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing processing systemsMonitoring quality, ensuring compliance

While both roles work within the meat industry, Meat Processing Engineers focus on designing and improving processing systems, whereas Meat Quality Assurance Technicians concentrate on maintaining product quality and safety. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right career path or hiring needs within meat production facilities.

What does a meat processing engineer do?

A meat processing engineer designs and oversees the production processes involved in converting raw meat into finished products. They develop efficient methods, ensure food safety standards, and may work with equipment like grinders and slicers, often requiring knowledge of food science and engineering principles. Their role includes quality control, process optimization, and compliance with health regulations.

What job categories do people searching Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Norfolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What cities near Norfolk, VA are hiring for Meat Processing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Norfolk, VA with the most Meat Processing Engineer job openings:

Meat Processing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing Engineer job openings in Norfolk, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,716 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing

Ethos

Newport News, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing

The Project Engineer, Food Manufacturing will lead a small team on medium to large-scale projects or take charge of a critical portion of a more complex initiative; you'll play a pivotal role in driving success.

Position Responsibilities:

         Develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates.

         Conduct feasibility studies and research to support design choices.

         Responsible for ensuring designs meet required standards and codes, validating field work and creating as-built drawings.

         Review engineering submissions for accuracy and compliance, coordinate project activities with vendors, contractors, and plant teams to stay on schedule and collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.

         Direct vendors and contractors on layout planning and utility requirements.

         Manage project budgets to ensure financial targets are met.

Requirements

         Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field and 5+ years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

         Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

         Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.

         Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.

         Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills. Previous experience in the management of multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes, desirable.

         Proficient in engineering economics.

         Proficient in AutoCAD.

         Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development

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