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Meat Processing Operator Jobs in Enterprise, AL (NOW HIRING)

Defense Commissary Agency

Meatcutting Worker

Fort Novosel, AL · On-site +1

$20.82 - $31.17/hr

... processing beef, pork, veal, and lamb into retail and ready-to-eat cuts for sale to patrons. This ... Using hand tools and operating powered meat cutting equipment. You will receive credit for all ...

All JobsMeat Processing Operator JobsMeat Processing Operator Jobs in Enterprise, AL

Meat Processing Operator information

See Enterprise, AL salary details

$11

$16

$24

How much do meat processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing operator in Enterprise, AL is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a meat processing operator do?

A Meat Processing Operator is responsible for operating equipment and machinery used in the preparation and packaging of meat products. Their duties include cutting, grinding, mixing, and processing meat according to safety and quality standards. They also monitor machinery, inspect finished products, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and adherence to hygiene protocols to maintain product quality and workplace safety.

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

A Meat Processing Operator needs knowledge of food safety, meat cutting techniques, and basic machinery operation, often acquired through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with industrial meat processing equipment, HACCP protocols, and sometimes certification in food handling is typical. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong teamwork skills help operators maintain quality and efficiency. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, consistent production and meeting industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by meat processing operators and how can they be addressed?

Meat Processing Operators often face challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, working in cold environments, and handling repetitive tasks. Adhering to safety protocols and proper use of protective equipment can help mitigate risks associated with sharp tools and machinery. Staying organized and communicating effectively with team members ensures smooth workflow and high product quality. Regular training and cross-functional collaboration also help operators adapt to evolving food safety regulations and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Meat Processing Operator vs Butcher?

AspectMeat Processing OperatorButcher
CertificationsFood safety, HACCP, OSHANone typically required, but some certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, factories, industrial settingsButcher shops, grocery stores, markets
Job FocusOperating machinery, processing meat products, quality controlCutting, trimming, preparing meat for sale
Employer & IndustryMeat processing plants, food manufacturingButcher shops, supermarkets, meat markets

While both roles involve working with meat, Meat Processing Operators focus on operating machinery and processing meat in industrial settings, often requiring food safety certifications. Butchers primarily cut and prepare meat for retail, often working directly with customers. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on skills and work environment preferences.

How much does a meat processing operator make?

A meat processing operator typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced operators or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase overall pay.

How to become a meat processing operator?

To become a meat processing operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may complete on-the-job training or a vocational program in meat processing or food safety. Certification in food safety standards, such as ServSafe, can improve job prospects, and physical stamina and attention to safety protocols are essential for working in processing environments.
Infographic showing various Meat Processing Operator job openings in Enterprise, AL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,858 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Meatcutting Worker

Fort Novosel, AL • On-site

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)external

$20.82/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist full performance meatcutters by performing simpler tasks when processing meat into retail and ready-to-eat cuts.

  • Use hand tools and powered meat cutting equipment to cut, trim, and bone meat.

  • Maintain cleanliness and safety practices, and interpret instructions and specifications related to meat processing.

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 540 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Serves as the Meatcutting Worker in a Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) location. The primary purpose of this position is to Assist full performance meatcutters by performing the simpler tasks when processing beef, pork, veal, and lamb into retail and ready-to-eat cuts for sale to patrons.
This is an open-continuous announcement with an established initial cut-off date 14 days after the open date of the announcement. Please see the "How You Will Be Evaluated" section for more information.Qualifications:You must meet qualifications and requirements by the closing date. Per the OPM Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations, how you gained the skill and/or knowledge or the length of time you have spent in this line of work is not as important as what you can do and that you have the required ability or potential to successfully perform the duties of this position. Your resume should show your specific knowledge, skill, and abilities for this position in relation to each of the elements being measured.
Examples of qualifying experience:
  • Working in the retail meat department traying, wrapping and weighing meat for sale to patrons.
  • Cutting, trimming and boning meat.
  • Using hand tools and operating powered meat cutting equipment.

You will receive credit for all relevant qualifying experience (paid and unpaid), including volunteer work done through National Service program (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social).
Physical requirements: (1) Continuously walk, stand, bend, stoop, stretch, and reach. (2) Lift up to 50 pounds independently and occasionally over 50 pounds with assistance. You will attest to your ability to perform these physical requirements in the Questionnaire.
As part of the online application process, you will respond to a series of questions designed to evaluate what you can do against what the work requires (job element method). This job has one critical element, called the screen-out element (SOE). The SOE addresses the critical knowledge, skill, and abilities essential to satisfactory job performance. Applicants who clearly fail to meet the lowest acceptable requirement in the SOE are rated ineligible and receive no further consideration. The job elements for this job are:
  • Ability to do the Work of the Position Without More than Normal Supervision
  • Dexterity and Safety
  • Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clean and in order)
  • Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (other than blueprints)
  • Materials
  • Technical Practice
  • Use and maintain hand and power tools

Overtime: Occasional
Bargaining Unit Status: varies by location
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Nonexempt
Obligated Position: No.
Those retired under CSRS or FERS considered: No. DoD criteria not met.
Work environment: May be subject to temperature changes based on opening and closing doors, working on loading docks, outside, and in refrigerated rooms. May be exposed to hot or cold weather, damp conditions, or drafty conditions. There is a danger of minor cuts, scrapes, bruises or heat sealer burns.
Telework eligible: No
Remote work eligible: NoEducation:You may not use education to qualify for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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