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Meat Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meat Cutter - Butcher

Riley, KS ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Processing takes place at Meatworks of Kansas, our USDA-inspected harvest and fabrication facility ... The Skilled Meat Processor / Butcher performs a variety of hands-on meat processing duties in a ...

Meat Processor

Moonachie, NJ ยท On-site

$16 - $21.45/hr

Meat Processing Lead has the ability to trim all fresh and frozen box meats to use meat grinders, slicers, knives, saws, and other tools. It will be also required to cut meat to meet store ...

Meat Cutter / Meat Processor

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Operate cutting tools, knives, saws, and other meat processing equipment safely and efficiently. * Inspect meat for quality, freshness, and proper texture before and after cutting. * Maintain clean ...

Meat Cutting Operator Location: Lucas, OH Pay: $20-$30/hour based on experience Schedule: 1st Shift ... Process custom orders down to retail and portion cuts, including boning chucks and rounds * Handle ...

Meat - Meat Cutter

Rexburg, ID ยท On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Operate meat processing equipment such as slicers, grinders, and saws, ensuring safety and efficiency. * Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the meat department, including cleaning equipment ...

Meat Clerk

Palo Cedro, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $21.90/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

South Lake Tahoe, CA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Corning, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Orland, CA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Corning, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $20.90/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

South Lake Tahoe, CA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Corning, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $20.90/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Palo Cedro, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $21.90/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Auburn, CA ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

South Lake Tahoe, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

Meat Clerk

Gridley, CA ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

Meat Processing, Wrapping, Pricing, Merchandising, Cleaning, Sanitation, Stocking Deli, Receiving Product, Tracking Invoicing, Maintaining Accurate Inventories. Essential Job Functions: Meat cutting ...

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Meat Processing information

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$5

$18

$24

How much do meat processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing in the United States is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $17.79 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.
More about Meat Processing jobs
What cities are hiring for Meat Processing jobs? Cities with the most Meat Processing job openings:
What states have the most Meat Processing jobs? States with the most job openings for Meat Processing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Meat Processing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,947 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Meat Cutter - Butcher

Meat Cutter - Butcher

MeatWorks

Riley, KS โ€ข On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description:

Booth Creek Wagyu is a family-owned beef company built on a vertically integrated model that gives us control of every step, from ranch to final cut. Our cattle are raised on the rolling tallgrass prairie north of Manhattan, Kansas at Booth Creek Wagyu Ranch, where careful attention to genetics, nutrition, and animal care sets the foundation for exceptional beef. They are finished through our Wagyu Feeders operation, where a focus on animal health, ethical care, and consistent nutrition helps develop the marbling and flavor Wagyu is known for. Processing takes place at Meatworks of Kansas, our USDA-inspected harvest and fabrication facility, allowing us to oversee harvest, aging, and cutting while maintaining strict quality standards and full transparency. Through a combination of e-commerce and retail sales, Booth Creek Wagyu delivers premium beef directly to customers who value craftsmanship, consistency, and knowing exactly where their food comes from.

Job Description:

The Skilled Meat Processor / Butcher performs a variety of hands-on meat processing duties in a local locker environment, including slaughter floor support, carcass breakdown, cutting standard and premium beef cuts, sausage making, smoking, packaging, sanitation, and occasional customer-facing store support. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-minded, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Perform custom beef processing tasks, including cutting, trimming, grinding, packaging, and related production work
  • Break carcasses and prepare standard and premium beef cuts according to company, customer, and production needs
  • Assist with sausage making, smoking, and processed meat production as needed
  • Support slaughter floor operations as needed
  • Operate knives, band saws, grinders, and other meat processing equipment safely and properly
  • Follow food safety, sanitation, quality, and production standards at all times
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area throughout the shift
  • Assist with packaging, labeling, cooler/freezer organization, and product handling
  • Work as part of a team and communicate clearly with supervisors and coworkers

Education & Experience

  • Experience with meat cutting, butchering, meat processing, or similar hands-on production work preferred
  • Knowledge and skill in making standard and specialty beef cuts preferred

Required Skills & Abilities:

  • Ability to safely operate a band saw and other meat processing equipment
  • Willingness and ability to assist on the kill floor as needed
  • Experience with, or willingness to learn, smokehouse operation and processed meat production
  • Dependable attendance and strong work ethic
  • Ability to follow directions, work safely, and maintain quality standards
  • Comfortable working in cold, wet, warm, and fast-paced production areas
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship
  • Must be 18 years or older

Physical Requirements & Working Environment

The physical requirements described here represent those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodation may be made.

  • Requires hands-on work in a meat processing environment
  • Ability to walk the plant floor, including exposure to noise and production equipment
  • Wet or humid conditions and slippery surfaces at times
  • Exposure to both warm and cool environments
  • Use of equipment and machinery
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 80 pounds occasionally with assistance
  • Must be able to follow all safety, PPE, and USDA facility requirements
  • Ability to work standard business hours with flexibility based on production schedules

Pay & Benefits:

  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay

Why Join Us?

  • Learn valuable, hands-on skills in meat processing
  • Be part of a small, supportive team
  • Work with locally sourced, high-quality products
  • Opportunity to grow as we expand our Wagyu program

MeatWorks of Kansas is a small locally owned custom meat processing butcher serving Riley, Manhattan, and surrounding areas. We work with local producers to provide fresh, quality pork and beef to our consumers. Our expert staff is trained in butchering hogs and cattle and will work with both producers and consumers to offer the best meat possible. Recently, we have begun specializing in Wagyu beef, and look forward to our new partnership with Booth Creek Wagyu Ranch. Choose MeatWorks of Kansas and become a part of a winning team!

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME