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Meat Processor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Fair Oaks Foods, LLC

General Utility

Davenport, IA

Responsibilities All employees are required to contribute to production operations by complying with policies and procedures for meat processing; Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis ...

Fair Oaks Foods, LLC

General Utility

Davenport, IA

Responsibilities All employees are required to contribute to production operations by complying with policies and procedures for meat processing; Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis ...

Prestage

Cut Floor Supervisor

Eagle Grove, IA

Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience, preferably in a manufacturing or meat processing environment. Skills & Competencies: * Strong leadership and team management abilities. * Excellent ...

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Meat Processor information

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$4

$17

$23

How much do meat processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processor in Iowa is $17.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are meat processors?

Meat processors are professionals who prepare meat for sale and consumption by slaughtering animals, cutting, trimming, deboning, grinding, and packaging meat products. They work in various settings such as slaughterhouses, processing plants, butcher shops, and grocery stores. Meat processors must follow strict food safety and sanitation guidelines to ensure the quality and safety of the products. Their responsibilities can also include inspecting meat for quality, operating specialized equipment, and maintaining records. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of health regulations.

How much money do meat processors make?

Meat processors typically earn an average annual salary between $25,000 and $40,000, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced workers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with overtime or shift differentials.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

In general, jobs that pay $400 an hour are highly specialized and typically include roles such as experienced surgeons, specialized lawyers, senior executives, or consultants with rare expertise. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes certification or licensing. For a meat processor, such high hourly rates are uncommon unless they hold executive or consulting roles within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Meat Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Meat Processor, you need knowledge of meat cutting techniques, food safety standards, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with meat processing machinery, cutting tools, and adherence to USDA or HACCP guidelines is typically required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and teamwork are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure product quality, workplace safety, and efficient operations in a fast-paced food production environment.

What Is a Meat Processor?

A meat processor prepares meat for packaging. As a meat processor, your duties revolve around cleaning, grinding, and packaging meat. You are also responsible for sorting meat and labeling packages. To perform this job, you do not need formal education, but you must complete on-the-job training. You can find these positions at grocery stores, meat packing plants, and animal slaughterhouses. Meat processors usually stand for long periods using heavy equipment, so you must have excellent physical stamina to complete your job safely. Similar job titles include meat production worker and meat packer.

What are some common challenges faced by meat processors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Meat processors often face challenges such as working in cold environments, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and performing repetitive tasks that can lead to fatigue. Addressing these challenges involves wearing appropriate protective clothing, adhering to sanitation protocols, and utilizing ergonomic equipment to reduce strain. Teamwork and good communication with supervisors are also essential to ensure safety and efficiency, as well as to quickly address any issues that arise during production.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A meat processor typically earns less than $10,000 a month; high-paying jobs without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, commercial pilots, or real estate brokers, which may require experience, licensing, or certifications. These positions usually involve specialized skills, industry knowledge, or sales performance to reach such income levels.

What is the difference between Meat Processor vs Butcher?

AspectMeat ProcessorButcher
CertificationsFood safety, HACCPNone required, but some may have food handling
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, industrial settingsRetail stores, butcher shops, markets
Employer & Industry UsageMeat processing companies, food manufacturingButcher shops, grocery stores, restaurants
Job FocusProcessing, cutting, packaging meat in bulkCustom cutting, customer service, retail sales

While both roles involve working with meat, a Meat Processor primarily focuses on bulk processing, cutting, and packaging in industrial settings, often requiring food safety certifications. A Butcher typically works in retail environments, preparing meat for customers and providing personalized service. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, or corporate executives, which typically require advanced education, certifications, and significant experience. Some freelance or consulting professionals in fields like law, finance, or technology may also earn this level of daily income, especially with high-demand skills and a strong client base.
More about Meat Processor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Meat Processor jobs in Iowa? For Meat Processor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Meat Processor jobs in IA? For Meat Processor jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Meat Processor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meat Processor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 54% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,643 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR-2ND SHIFT (CB1)

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR-2ND SHIFT (CB1)

jbs

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description
Position at JBS USA
Job Title: Production Supervisor
Our Company, Your Opportunity:
Our Mission:
To be THE BEST in all we do. We are completely focused on our business, ensuring the BEST products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers and profitability for our shareholders. All this, we do to provide an opportunity for a better future for all of our TEAM MEMBERS.
Scope of Position:
The Production Supervisor is responsible for providing direction and oversight for the safe and efficient operations at one of our Council Bluffs, IA facilities. Ensure daily production is started at the targeted start times each day, and there is a fluid handoff to Sanitation team members. Implement Lean manufacturing practices and develop and measure KPI's to drive continuous improvement across the operations teams on the shift.
Our ideal candidate will be a results driven production supervisor with great people and communication skills. This individual will be responsible for managing the day to day activities of a department within a food production plant.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee and lead employee safety training and compliance for all employees
  • Execute Plant scheduling of finished product
  • Direct Operations shift activities across the plant floor
  • Champion Lean manufacturing training and shop floor education for the shift
  • Review and analyze daily production data
  • Align resources to achieve daily work plan
  • Achieve operational goals regarding safety, quality, yields, labor and cost savings
  • Implement continuous improvement process to improve yields and profitability
  • Collaborate with Superintendents and Operations Manager on new product opportunities
  • Coach/develop workforce to maintain employee engagement and identify the next generation of leaders.

Work Environment / Physical Demands
  • Competent on computer, office software and associated equipment
  • SAP knowledge a plus
  • Will work in cold, possibly wet environments

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Basic understanding of meat processing, meat processing equipment and packaging
  • Planning and scheduling tools
  • Tactical and planning execution
  • Analytical skills and team building
  • Troubleshooting operational issues and implementing solutions.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English or Burmese/English is a plus

Experience / Work History
  • Minimum of 2 years - food manufacturing experience
  • Preferred college or technical degree with emphasis on critical thinking

Internal Reports
  • Production Line employees and leads
  • Receiving and shipping

External Reports
  • USDA
  • Key suppliers

If interested, please apply at jbssa.com/careers.
JBS Prepared Foods is an equal opportunity employer.
EOE, including disability/vets

Apply