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Meat Processing Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Meat Clerk

Columbia, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk

Mexico, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk

Mexico, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk

MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk

Columbia, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk

Columbia, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk (Part-Time)

Ashland, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk (Part-Time)

Ashland, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Meat Clerk (Part-Time)

Ashland, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Exposure to meat processing equipment requiring strong safety awareness * Standing for extended periods of time * Frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of products up to 50 lbs This is not an ...

Production Employee

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Essential Functions & Responsibilities Responsible for trimming meat to specifications per order. Responsible for packaging, loading, unloading and transferring product to correct slots and locations.

Production Employee

Kansas City, MO

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Essential Functions & Responsibilities Responsible for trimming meat to specifications per order. Responsible for packaging, loading, unloading and transferring product to correct slots and locations.

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Meat Processing information

See Missouri salary details

$4

$17

$23

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Missouri is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $16.68 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 Missouri? For Meat Processing jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,595 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
General Laborer (Meat Processing)

General Laborer (Meat Processing)

Kelly Services

Chesterfield, MO

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description


Job Title: General Laborer (Meat Processing)
Shifts: 7:00 AM – Finish
Schedule: Monday – Friday
Payrate - $19.84
Work Location: Onsite
Position OverviewWe are seeking motivated General Laborers to join our team in a fast-paced meat processing environment. You will be responsible for preparing, processing, and packaging meat products, ensuring quality standards, and maintaining a clean and safe work area.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare meat products for production lines and processing stages.
  • Utilize tools and machinery to process and package products according to schedule.
  • Follow all Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) requirements.
  • Perform visual inspections of meat products to ensure quality and specification compliance.
  • Maintain high standards to meet both company and customer requirements.
  • Assist in keeping the work area clean and organized.

Work Environment
  • Fast-paced production setting.
  • Regularly work in refrigerated environments (35°F–45°F).
  • Occasional work in freezers (as low as -10°F).
  • Active, physically demanding position – must be comfortable lifting and standing for extended periods.

Must-Have Technical Skills
  • Basic knowledge of food safety guidelines.
  • Familiarity with production processes.
  • Ability to work efficiently in cold and fast-paced environments.

Preferred Technical Skills
  • Experience in meat packaging.
  • FSQA (Food Safety/Quality Assurance) or quality control experience.
  • Familiarity with operating food processing equipment.

Soft Skills & Team Fit
  • Good communication skills.
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration mindset.
  • Problem-solving ability and adaptability.

Education & Certifications
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Basic reading, writing, and math skills required.

Experience
  • No prior experience required; training provided.
  • Background in the meat or restaurant industry is a plus but not necessary.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Put your skills to work.

There are a lot of different light industrial jobs out there. Kelly® Professional & Industrial recruiters are focused on only offering opportunities with companies that provide competitive pay, safe work environments, and cultures that recognize your value. Whether you’re looking for flexible shifts, performance bonuses, or a progressive work culture-we’re dedicated to finding the very best opportunities for you.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
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