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Meat Processing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tiefenthaler Quality Meats

Meat Processor

Holstein, IA · On-site

We are a small family owned and operated meat processing facility located in Holstein, Iowa providing the northwest Iowa area with custom processing services as well as top quality specialty meats.

Tiefenthaler Quality Meats

Meat Processor

Holstein, IA · On-site

We are a small family owned and operated meat processing facility located in Holstein, Iowa providing the northwest Iowa area with custom processing services as well as top quality specialty meats.

Fresh Thyme Farmers Market

Meat Clerk

Davenport, IA

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Preferred 1 -2 years grocery retail experience in Meat department processes and procedures. Previous experience in a natural foods industry is a plus. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Must maintain ...

Quillins

Meat Cutter

Waukon, IA

$14.25 - $19/hr

... processes and customer service. * Meets the physical requirement to perform the job functions ... Previous experience with Meat Department operations * Familiarity with products carried in the Meat ...

Fresh Thyme

Meat Clerk

Davenport, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Education and Experience • High school diploma or equivalency degree. • Preferred 1 -2 years grocery retail experience in Meat department processes and procedures. • Previous experience in a ...

Quillin's

Meat Cutter

Waukon, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

... processes and customer service. * Meets the physical requirement to perform the job functions ... Previous experience with Meat Department operations * Familiarity with products carried in the Meat ...

Quillins

Meat Manager

West Union, IA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Follows approved Meat department plans for effective space management based on product movement ... processes and customer service * Enforces general housekeeping and regular sanitation and cleaning ...

Quillin's

Meat Manager

IA · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Follows approved Meat department plans for effective space management based on product movement ... processes and customer service * Enforces general housekeeping and regular sanitation and cleaning ...

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All JobsMeat Processing JobsMeat Processing Jobs in Iowa

Meat Processing information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$17

$23

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Iowa is $17.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $16.73 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 Iowa? For Meat Processing jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processing jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processing jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Meat Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,643 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Meat Processor

Tiefenthaler Quality Meats

Holstein, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary:

Help wanted in our growing Specialty Meat Store.

Monday through Friday during the week which also includes working every otherSaturday mornings from 8 am to Noon.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST FILL OUT JOB APPLICATION ATTQMEATS.COMTO BE CONSIDERED.

Meat Processor / Meat Cutter / Meat Packager

Tiefenthaler Quality Meats is seeking a self-starting, career minded individual for a full time meat processor/meat cutter/meat packager. We are a small family owned and operated meat processing facility located in Holstein, Iowa providing the northwest Iowa area with custom processing services as well as top quality specialty meats. Tiefenthaler Quality Meats has over 170 different meat products that we sell to consumers in our own specialty meat retail store. Tiefenthalers also service over 60 local grocery stores with some of our products. Tiefenthaler Quality Meats strives to give every customer more than they expect and seek to continually improve all aspects of our business.

Only applicants that have filled out the full online application located on our website will be reviewed and considered.

All individuals must be punctual, self-motivated, service oriented, and enjoy working with others.

Successful applicants will perform (but not limited to) the following tasks.

Cut & packagemeatfor the retail store and customer requests
Cut Individual Customer Orders for Whole, side, quarters of beef, hogs, sheep, goats, deer, etc.
Help retail customers with orders (making retail cuts and wrapping to order)
Keeping retail and HACCP records / working with State of Iowa Inspectors
Keep product labels updated and within compliance
Master the art of sausage and jerky making among other products
Some maintenance and/or cleaning duties required for daily operations
Load out customers meat purchased or custom processed
Work in coolers and freezers
Clean & Sanitize all equipment and processing rooms at the end of the working day/shift
Heavy lifting of 60 lb. meat lugs
All other duties necessary to business operations not listed here.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and fully subscribe to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. Applicants and/or Employees are considered for hire, promotion and job status, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex marital status, national origin, age, physical or mental disability.

Benefits:

Tiefenthaler Quality Meats offers a comprehensive benefit package to full time employees. Benefits begin after the 90 day introductory period ends and include:

Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
Company Match Simple IRA plan to 3%
Paid Time Off accruing after 90 day introductory period ends
Retail store discounts for meat products