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Meat Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Meijer, Inc.

Meat Cutter - Full Time

Rockford, IL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Familiarity with weights and measure processes specific to meat processing. * Ability to understand and follow specific safety and sanitation procedures. * Experience in product presentation and ...

New

Meijer

Meat cutter part time

Bradley, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Familiarity with weights and measure processes specific to meat processing. * Ability to understand and follow specific safety and sanitation procedures. * Experience in product presentation and ...

Meijer, Inc.

Meat cutter part time

Bradley, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Familiarity with weights and measure processes specific to meat processing. * Ability to understand and follow specific safety and sanitation procedures. * Experience in product presentation and ...

Meijer, Inc.

Meat cutter part time

Bradley, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Familiarity with weights and measure processes specific to meat processing. * Ability to understand and follow specific safety and sanitation procedures. * Experience in product presentation and ...

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc.

Butcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $22.11/hr

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 ...

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Forklift Driver [Food / Meat Processing]

Addison, IL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

2 Shifts Available! $18-$21 1st Shift: 5:30am Until Finish 2nd Shift: 3pm Until Finish * Must be able to work in cold and loud environment. * Must have experience with Class I-III powered equipment.

Home - Chicago Meat Authority, Inc

Butcher

Chicago, IL

$39K - $45K/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 ...

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc.

General Labor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.26/hr

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 ...

Illinois Sanitation Service Inc

Butcher's

Aurora, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

We are currently seeking reliable and hardworking Butchers / Meat Warehouse Associates to join our team in a fast-paced meat processing and distribution warehouse. The ideal candidate will assist ...

W3Global Inc.

Meat Scientist

Chicago, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Meat Scientist Location: Chicago, IL (On-site) Position Overview We are seeking a Meat Scientist to ... Process Development & Commercial Scale-Up * Support pilot-scale and commercial production trials ...

W3Global Inc.

Meat Scientist

Chicago, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Meat Scientist Location: Chicago, IL (On-site) Position Overview We are seeking a Meat Scientist to ... Process Development & Commercial Scale-Up * Support pilot-scale and commercial production trials ...

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All JobsMeat Processing JobsMeat Processing Jobs in Illinois

Meat Processing information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$17

$23

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Illinois is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a meat processing worker?

To become a meat processing worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may undergo on-the-job training to learn safety procedures and processing techniques. Some positions require knowledge of food safety standards and the use of specialized equipment; certifications in food safety or sanitation can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Meat Processing vs Butcher?

AspectMeat ProcessingButcher
CredentialsFood safety certifications, HACCP trainingMeat cutting certifications, food safety knowledge
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, industrial settingsButcher shops, grocery stores, markets
Industry UsageLarge-scale meat production and packagingRetail meat cutting and customer service

Meat Processing involves large-scale production, focusing on processing, packaging, and safety standards, often in industrial settings. Butchers primarily work in retail environments, cutting and preparing meat for customers. Both roles require food safety knowledge, but Meat Processing emphasizes production processes, while Butchers focus on customer service and meat preparation.

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

To thrive in meat processing, you need a solid understanding of food safety, proper handling techniques, and basic butchery skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cutting tools, meat grinders, packaging machines, and compliance with HACCP or other food safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work efficiently in a team are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure product quality, safety, and efficiency in a fast-paced processing environment.

What is meat processing?

Meat processing refers to the series of steps involved in converting raw animal carcasses into consumable meat products. This process can include slaughtering, cutting, deboning, grinding, curing, smoking, packaging, and labeling. Meat processors must follow strict food safety regulations to ensure the final products are safe for consumption. The industry produces a wide range of products, including fresh cuts, sausages, deli meats, and ready-to-eat foods. Meat processing plays a crucial role in making meat products accessible and convenient for consumers.

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

Meat processing workers often encounter challenges such as repetitive motions, physically demanding tasks, and exposure to cold environments. Adhering to proper safety protocols, using ergonomic tools, and taking regular breaks can help prevent injuries and fatigue. Additionally, many facilities provide training on safe handling techniques and encourage teamwork to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Open communication with supervisors about any concerns is also important for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Meat Processing jobs in Illinois? For Meat Processing jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processing jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processing jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Meat Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,772 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Meat Processing Associate

Alliance Workforce

Joliet, IL

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Now Hiring: Meat Processing Associate

Joliet, IL
Schedule
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday
Start Time: 6:00 AM
10+ Hour Shifts (Work until production is complete)

Are you looking for a physically active position where you can earn a full day's pay in just three workdays each week?
Alliance Workforce is seeking dependable Meat Processing Associates to join a fast-paced production team.
Job Responsibilities
Rebox and organize meat products
Lift, move, and stack product
Maintain quality and food safety standards
Keep your work area clean and organized
Work as part of a team to meet daily production goals

What to Expect
• Heavy physical work throughout the shift
• Cold, wet production environment
• Standing, bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling for extended periods
• Working directly with raw pork and beef products
• Exposure to blood is part of the normal work environment
• PPE is provided and required

We're Looking For
Reliable attendance
Able to lift and perform repetitive physical work
Comfortable working around raw meat products
Positive attitude and strong work ethic

If you're dependable, don't mind hard work, and are ready to start early, we'd love to hear from you!
Call Alliance Workforce today at 630-855-5821 to learn more and apply!
www.alliancewf.com