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Meat Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Nexus Employment

Meat Packer

South Holland, IL

$16.25 - $16.75/hr

Nexus Employment Solutions Plus, Inc., is currently hiring for Full Time General Labor Warehouse Workers to work at a Meat Processing facility located in the South Holland, IL area. Full Time - ...

Nexus Employment

Meat Packer

Posen, IL

$16.25 - $16.75/hr

Nexus Employment Solutions Plus, Inc., is currently hiring for Full Time General Labor Warehouse Workers to work at a Meat Processing facility located in the South Holland, IL area. Full Time - ...

Nexus Employment Solutions

Meat Packer

Posen, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $16.75/hr

Nexus Employment Solutions Plus, Inc., is currently hiring for Full Time General Labor Warehouse Workers to work at a Meat Processing facility located in the South Holland, IL area. Full Time - ...

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 ...

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 ...

Home - Chicago Meat Authority, Inc

Butcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Specialized Staffing Solutions

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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.

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 ...

Chicago Meat Authority

Sanitation 3rd Shift

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.16/hr

CMA is seeking Sanitarians for our meat processing facility. What You Get To Do: * Clean the facility and all equipment; including wall to wall, ceiling to floor according to Standard Operating ...

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All JobsMeat Processing JobsMeat Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Meat Processing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$18

$24

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Chicago, IL is $18.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $17.69 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 Chicago, IL? For Meat Processing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Meat Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,719 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Technical Sales Manager - U.S. Meat Processing (Maurer-Atmos)

MWW Food Processing USA LLC

Elk Grove Village, IL

$95K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

Founded i 

The Legacy Founded in 1928 and headquartered in Reichenau, Germany, Maurer-Atmos is the global gold standard for smoking, cooking, and maturing technologies. We don't just build machines; we engineer the taste, texture, and safety of the world's finest meat products.

The Mission We are seeking a Sales Champion to spearhead our expansion within the U.S. meat processing sector. This is a high-impact, autonomous role designed for a seasoned professional who is equally comfortable in a corporate boardroom and on a production floor. Your focus: delivering world-class smokehouses and batch ovens to the medium-sized processors and regional artisans who define the American meat industry.

Your Impact:

  • Drive High-Value Capital Sales: Own the full lifecycle for custom-configured thermal systems (smokehouses, batch ovens, and dry-cure systems).
  • Consultative Strategy: Perform on-site process analyses to help clients maximize yield, capacity, and energy efficiency.
  • Industry Influence: Leverage your "rolodex" of plant managers and owners to identify new installations and plant expansions.
  • Technical Translation: Partner with our German engineering teams to turn complex client needs into high-performance equipment solutions.
  • Market Intelligence: Position Maurer-Atmos as the premier choice for specialty and craft producers by staying ahead of regional trends.

MWW is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.


Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Health Savings Account w/ ER contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account w/ ER contribution
  • Dental Insurance
  • Company Paid Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Company Paid Life insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off
  • 401k
  • Vision insurance

Requirements

What You Bring:

  • 5-10 Years of Experience: Proven success selling thermal processing systems (smoking, roasting, drying).
  • An Established Network: A deep, personal connection to the U.S. regional meat processing and butchery community.
  • Technical Fluency: You know the science behind a perfect salami, pepperoni, or smoked sausage.
  • Regulatory Mastery: Solid understanding of USDA/FDA requirements and HACCP principles.
  • The Road Warrior Spirit: Readiness for 50-70% travel across North America, with annual trips to our headquarters in Germany.

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