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Meat Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Buckhead Meat and Seafood

Meat Packer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

... recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and ... The ability to touch, feel, manipulate fingers and limbs to operate various processing and material ...

Fresh Thyme Farmers Market

Meat Cutter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Preferred 2-3 years grocery retail experience in Meat department processes and procedures. Previous experience in a natural foods industry is a plus. Journeyman cutter or apprenticeship program ...

Food 4 Less

MEAT/MEAT CUTTER

Dolton, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Meat work experience or similar experience in food preparation. * Past work record reflects ... Perform tasks such as cutting, grinding, slicing, preparing, processing, trimming, tenderizing ...

Strack and Van Til

Meat Cutter - Munster

Munster, IN · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Summary: Journeyman certification; assists customers and other staff; processes bulk meat for sale ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Meat Cutter activities : * Inspects meat products for freshness * Faces ...

The Fresh Market Inc

Meat Cutter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.53 - $25.26/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 ...

The Fresh Market Inc

Meat Cutter

Chicago, IL

$21.53 - $25.26/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 ...

The Fresh Market Inc

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 ...

The Fresh Market, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Chicago, IL

$21.53 - $25.26/hr

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

The Fresh Market Inc

Meat Cutter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.53 - $25.26/hr

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

Mariano's

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Elmhurst, 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

Mariano's

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/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

Mariano's

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Orland Park, 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

Mariano's

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Western Springs, 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

Mariano's

MEAT/LEAD CLERK

Harwood Heights, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $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

Forty Acres Fresh Market

Butcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Operates meat-processing equipment * Prepares, saws, mixes, tenderizes, ties, weighs and packages meat products * Sausage, burger, and other value added production * Maintains proper safety practices ...

Albertsons

Meat Cutter

Addison, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

As a Meat Cutter, you will be on the cutting edge with our beef, poultry, and other meat products ... application process. Albertsons is an Equal Opportunity Employer This Company is an Equal ...

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All JobsMeat Processing JobsMeat Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Meat Processing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$18

$25

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in Chicago, IL is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $18.32 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 Chicago, IL? For Meat Processing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processing jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processing jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Meat Processing job openings:
Meat Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,122 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Meat Packer

Buckhead Meat and Seafood

Elgin, IL • On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Tasks would include boxing and scanning
  • Assist machine operators in running machines and orders through the machine properly (apprentice type situation)

Skills

  • Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or operational goals
  • Commitment to work until the job is completed
  • Interacts well with others
  • Good team player
  • Results-oriented and detail-oriented
  • Customer-service oriented
  • Able to work safely with machinery, some heavy lifting required
  • Standing for long periods of time, twisted torso all day long, basic ability to read tickets and special requests, ability to recognize cuts of meat, able to write numbers and basic descriptions, basic math, reading and writing skills, able to work in a cold/wet environment fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work in a paced environment
  • Ability to be trained and learn new skills          

Work Environment

  • Heavy lifting activities for this employee
  • Standing, walking and reaching are regular activities for this employee.
  • The ability to touch, feel, manipulate fingers and limbs to operate various processing and material handling equipment is necessary
  • The ability to smell is required, in order to detect levels of wholesomeness and spoilage
  • This position requires the candidate to be in refrigerated processing and warehouse areas.  These areas are cold and wet and exposure to moving machinery and sharp surfaces are a regular occurrence.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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