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Meat Processing Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

R&D Technologist

Omaha, NE · On-site

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems. * Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal ...

Smithfield Foods

R&D Technologist

Omaha, NE · On-site

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems.Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal ...

Smithfield Foods

R&D Technologist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems. * Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal ...

Smithfield Foods

R&D Technologist

Crete, NE

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems. * Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal ...

Smithfield Foods

R&D Technologist

Omaha, NE

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems. * Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal ...

Cargill

Oven Operator

Nebraska City, NE · On-site

$21.90 - $22.90/hr

Meat processing experience * Work history in the last 12 months Please note that this position does not include relocation reimbursement. Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

Prestage

Technical Services Coordinator

Fremont, NE · On-site

Knowledge of food science, meat and meat processing, quality assurance principles, USDA rules & regulations and statistics desired. * Knowledge and understanding of Institutional Meat Purchase ...

Greater Omaha Packing

Quality Control 1

Omaha, NE · On-site

Must have the ability to understand and follow instructions and to learn the methods and practices used in red meat processing processing * Must be able to work varying days (including weekends) when ...

Albertsons

Meat - Seafood Clerk

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

A Day in the Life: We're looking for a hardworking and customer-focused Meat/Seafood Department ... process, please contact us at 1-888-255-2269(option #4).

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All JobsMeat Processing JobsMeat Processing Jobs in Nebraska

Meat Processing information

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$5

$17

$23

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Nebraska is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $16.97 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 Nebraska? For Meat Processing jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processing jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processing jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Meat Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,181 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
R&D Technologist

R&D Technologist

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Omaha, NE • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:
The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.
As a Research & Development Technologist, you will lead impactful research projects that optimize costs through advanced formulation and processing efficiencies. Your expertise will drive the creation of new prototypes for product development initiatives, ensuring groundbreaking advancements in quality and performance.
Beyond innovation, you will identify and approve potential ingredient and manufacturing suppliers, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance production capabilities. Your contributions will shape the future of product development, maximizing efficiency while delivering high-quality solutions.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
  • Product Development and Commercialization: You will develop new products and line extensions, transforming concepts from bench-top development to full commercialization. Additionally, you will run production tests at manufacturing plants to refine formulations and enhance product quality while utilizing an online formulation database to create or adjust product formulations for optimal performance.
  • Testing and Evaluation: You will conduct pilot plant tests to develop product prototypes, carefully documenting findings and organizing product reviews for thorough evaluation. Additionally, you will provide both verbal and written updates on project progress to keep stakeholders informed and ensure successful development.
  • Collaboration and Cross-Functional Support: You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Business, Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, Quality, and Process Control, to drive successful product development. Additionally, you will support R&D team members by assisting in the creation of product prototypes as needed.
  • Regulatory and Documentation Management: You will maintain accurate project files, formulations, specifications, and product data to ensure consistency and precision in development. Additionally, you will continuously enhance your product development skills through training and hands-on experience, ensuring compliance with USDA/FDA regulations and industry standards.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field and 2+ years of relevant plant manufacturing experience in the meat processing industry, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality. Able to work with pilot plant equipment with minimum supervision.
  • Proficient in on-line work systems and product development software tools.
  • Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems.
  • Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal, communication, organizational and time management skills.
  • May require travel up to 40% of the time.
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Master's Degree, preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequently required to stand; sit; walk; use hands handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, and talk or hear.
Relocation Package AvailableYes
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

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