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Meat Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Meat Cutter

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$20.42 - $23.96/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Algonquin, IL

$19.45 - $22.82/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$19.45 - $22.82/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$20.42 - $23.96/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Northbrook, IL

$20.42 - $23.96/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Full Time Meat Cutter

Freeport, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Meat Cutters at Cub are responsible for cutting, wrapping, preparation and stocking for the meat ... selection process. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Compensation: UNFI ...

Meat Cutter

Algonquin, IL · On-site

$19.45 - $22.82/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Algonquin, IL

$19.45 - $22.82/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Northbrook, IL

$20.42 - $23.96/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Meat Cutter

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$20.42 - $23.96/hr

As the Meat Cutter, you are managing, cutting, and trimming meat and seafood according to The Fresh ... processes that require significant attention to detail. This is a fast-paced position that requires ...

Learns how to receive and process meat shipments * Maintains meat cases * Fills cases/stocks meat * Assists customers with requests and information * Cleans and sanitizes equipment, cases work area ...

Learns how to receive and process meat shipments * Maintains meat cases * Fills cases/stocks meat * Assists customers with requests and information * Cleans and sanitizes equipment, cases work area ...

Learns how to receive and process meat shipments * Maintains meat cases * Fills cases/stocks meat * Assists customers with requests and information * Cleans and sanitizes equipment, cases work area ...

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Naperville, IL · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

... the application or pre-hiring process, please call 844-849-7136 or contact the location ... Meat experience Minimum Position Qualifications: * 18 years of age * Effective communication skills

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... the application or pre-hiring process, please call 844-849-7136 or contact the location ... Meat experience Minimum Position Qualifications: * 18 years of age * Effective communication skills

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Westchester, IL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... the application or pre-hiring process, please call 844-849-7136 or contact the location ... Meat experience Minimum Position Qualifications: * 18 years of age * Effective communication skills

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Meat Processing information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$17

$23

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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.

Who are the Big 4 in the meat industry?

The Big 4 in the meat industry typically refer to Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and Smithfield Foods. These companies are among the largest meat processors globally, offering numerous job opportunities in processing plants, quality control, and logistics.

What is a meat processing worker?

A meat processing worker is responsible for preparing, cutting, and packaging meat products in a processing plant. They operate machinery, follow safety protocols, and ensure quality standards are met, often working in refrigerated environments and requiring knowledge of food safety regulations.

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.

How much money do meat processors make?

Meat processors typically earn an average annual salary between $25,000 and $45,000, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Skilled workers or those in supervisory positions can earn higher wages, and benefits may include health insurance and overtime pay.

Is butchering a skilled trade?

Yes, butchering is considered a skilled trade that requires knowledge of animal anatomy, proper cutting techniques, and safety procedures. Skilled butchers often undergo training or apprenticeships to develop precision and efficiency in meat processing tasks.
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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,772 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Director, Engineering - Meat, Cheese, Coffee, Snacks

Director, Engineering - Meat, Cheese, Coffee, Snacks

Kraft Heinz Company

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 397 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Kraft Heinz, the companyAs one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, we are proud to spark joy around mealtimes with a global portfolio of more than 200 brands. Some are iconic Masterbrands like Heinz and Kraft. No matter the brand, we are united under one vision: To Be the Best Food Company, Growing a Better World. Bringing this vision to life are our 36,000+ teammates around the world, making food people love. Together, we help provide meals to those in need through our global partnership and commitment with Rise Against Hunger. And we also stand committed to sustainability, and the health of our planet and its people. Every day, we are transforming the food industry with bold thinking and unprecedented results. If you're passionate like us -- and ready to create the future, build on storied legacy, and participate as a conscientious global citizen -- there's one thing to do: join us.Our culture of Ownership, Meritocracy and CollaborationWe're not afraid to think differently. Embrace new ideas. Dream big. It all comes down to the way we empower our people to own their work. It's true: Our employees are our competitive advantage. As part of the Kraft Heinz family, you're supported to grow and achieve. You're recognized and rewarded for outstanding performance at every level. You're given the opportunity to leave your mark and build legacies. But you won't do it alone. This is where our values and teamwork thrive and collaborative spirit fuels every day.Head of EngineeringThe Head of Engineering for a Business Unit reports to the Head of CapEx and PMO North America. This position is responsible for 10 KraftHeinz plants producing meats, cheeses, coffee and snacks. Responsible for developing the short- and long-term goals and objectives of engineering that are incorporated in the overall strategic plan to achieve successful financial and operational results. The Head of Engineering has a wide scope on technologies and infrastructure to these factories and requires a strong understanding of manufacturing best practices and a strong background in process and packaging equipment for the food industry and plant facility engineering.Job Description
Primary Responsibilities
• Leads and directs the Engineering function with direct responsibility to CapEx process, which includes deep technical case, project management and financial cost management.
• Acts as a liaison with departments, sub-contractors and vendors in resolving problems related to design, manufacture, product acceptance from a technical standpoint, product performance, competitive cost and quality assurance
• Although not a design function, it is expected that the Head of Engineer can constructively challenge the technical solves presented and drive optimal and sustaining solves to projects to the applicable factories
• The BU head of Engineering is responsible for developing the 1 to 3 year capital plan for the overall business unit in collaboration with the BU lead and Zone Technical Leader equating, cost, resources and timelines
• Responsible to accurately scoping the financial components of the project and its cash flow in collaboration with the Finance department
• Adherence to the CapEx stage gate process with leading roles in the technical peer reviews before project CAR submission
• Approval of the CAR document (when whenever needed by a project) and ability to concisely and convincedly present the project CAR to different executive approval committees
• Assigns engineering design, program, project review and job release activity to technical project engineers. Assists various engineering staff in coordination of all engineering activities, including the CAPEX Projects & Systems process.
• Strong analytical reasoning and critical thinking to propose project options and evaluate trade-offs necessary to deliver the best technical project solve
• Ability to factor other key areas such as EHS and FQS as part of the project requests
• Ability to understand and incorporate maintenance requirements as part of capital projects
• Develops and formally documents, improved processes, procedures and standards.
• Develops performance guidelines/standards for engineering staff; defines and sets departmental and individual staff goals in support of management objectives. Evaluates staff performance in relationship to the established goals and objectives.
• Serves as an advisor to other technical personnel and plant project engineers
Qualifications
• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from an accredited engineering school or related field is required
• Minimum of 10-15 years' experience in engineering, project management and /or technical leadership
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior leaders of the organization
• Food manufacturing background and desirable understanding of meat processing, cheese manufacturing and refrigeration overall
• Possess a credible authority both internal and external
• Excellent knowledge of the Kraft Heinz Operation processes and Engineering Playbook
• Experience leading cross functional initiatives across multiple plants / businesses - preferred
• Experience implementing improvement strategies across multiple plants / businesses - preferred
• Ability to apply mathematical operations to such tasks as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$190,300.00 - $237,900.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Long-Term Incentive (LTI): In addition to base salary and bonus, this role is eligible for additional compensation in the form of equity.
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
Chicago/Aon Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com

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