1

Poultry Processor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Poultry Line Associate- 2nd Shift

Hammond, LA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Learn and perform production related tasks surrounding poultry processing such as debone or evisceration Perform all duties in compliance with Company policies and procedures, agency guidelines (i.e.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Poultry Processor information

See salary details

$9

$14

$16

How much do poultry processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for poultry processor in the United States is $14.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $15.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Poultry Processor, you need manual dexterity, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards, with a high school diploma often preferred. Familiarity with processing equipment, cutting tools, and safety gear is typically required, along with adherence to USDA regulations. Physical stamina, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure product quality, maintain workplace safety, and support efficient operations in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Poultry Processor vs Poultry Line Worker?

AspectPoultry ProcessorPoultry Line Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training provided
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants with cold, wet conditionsProcessing lines within poultry plants, often standing for long periods
Employer & Industry UsageMeat processing companies, poultry farmsProcessing plants, poultry production facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in poultry processingRelated role focusing on specific tasks on the processing line

The main difference between a Poultry Processor and a Poultry Line Worker is that the Poultry Processor oversees multiple stages of processing, ensuring quality and safety, while the Poultry Line Worker performs specific tasks on the processing line. Both roles require similar certifications and work in cold, industrial environments, but the Processor typically has broader responsibilities.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Poultry processors typically do not earn $4,000 per week; such high wages are uncommon in this role. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree include certain sales positions, specialized trades like commercial diving or oil rig work, and some entrepreneurial ventures, often requiring experience, skills, or certifications. These roles may involve physically demanding work, irregular hours, or high responsibility.

How much do chicken processors make?

Chicken processors typically earn an average hourly wage of around $12 to $16, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and whether the worker is involved in processing, packaging, or supervisory roles.

What is a poultry processing worker?

A poultry processing worker is responsible for slaughtering, cleaning, and preparing poultry such as chickens and turkeys for sale and distribution. The job often involves operating machinery, following safety protocols, and working in a fast-paced environment, typically during early morning or evening shifts.

What is the qualification for poultry processing?

Qualifications for poultry processing jobs typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, the ability to perform repetitive tasks, and good physical stamina. Some positions may require training on safety standards and the use of processing equipment, and workers often need to pass health and safety screenings.

What are poultry processors?

Poultry processors are workers who prepare chickens, turkeys, and other birds for sale and consumption. Their duties typically involve slaughtering, cleaning, cutting, deboning, packaging, and inspecting poultry products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. They often work in processing plants, using specialized equipment and following strict health and sanitation guidelines. Poultry processors play a crucial role in the food supply chain by making sure poultry products are safe and ready for distribution to markets and consumers.

What are some common challenges faced by poultry processors, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Poultry processors often encounter challenges such as maintaining high standards of food safety, working efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and performing repetitive tasks that can be physically demanding. To address these, companies provide thorough training on safety and hygiene protocols, ergonomic equipment and regular breaks to minimize strain, and teamwork to ensure product quality and workflow. Open communication with supervisors and adherence to safety guidelines are key to overcoming these challenges and fostering a positive work environment.
More about Poultry Processor jobs
What cities are hiring for Poultry Processor jobs? Cities with the most Poultry Processor job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Poultry Processor jobs? The top employers for Poultry Processor jobs are:
What states have the most Poultry Processor jobs? States with the most job openings for Poultry Processor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Poultry Processor jobs? For Poultry Processor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Poultry Processor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,178 per year, or $15 per hour.
Poultry Production Hourly - Pilgrim's Pride

Poultry Production Hourly - Pilgrim's Pride

Pilgrim's

De Queen, AR

$16.65/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Pilgrim's rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 127 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 389 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Description

Please give us a call after completing an application.
870-584-5324

870-584-5321

De Queen, Arkansas
Poultry Processor-Production Laborer

Pilgrim’s wants YOU to join our hourly production team! Positions start at $16.65 / hour for 1st shift and $18.15 / hour for 2nd shift plus attendance bonus if qualifications are met of $2.75 per hour.

Benefits include:  

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance   
  • 401K contributions   
  • Better Futures Program –2 Year Community College tuition paid for you or your dependents!   
  • Opportunity to grow your career through our Supervisor Development Program

At Pilgrim’s, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members comes first - always.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:  


• Processes product using tools (to include knives), manual labor, and equipment provided in accordance with   USDA and Pilgrim’s Company product standards and procedures.
• Process product according to operating procedures and quality/quantity expectations.
• Observes equipment operation, notifying appropriate personnel of any malfunctions and/or safety issues/concerns.
• Clean and organized work area.
• Assist others with the skills and knowledge gained from the position.
• Observes all company personnel, quality, safety, and food safety policies. Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner so that you work effectively and cooperatively with customers, clients, co-workers, and leadership teams.
• Recognizes and acts on incidents and safety risks. Consistently practices and enforces safe work habits and drives those habits throughout the organization.
• Participates in process improvement and problem solving utilizing continuous improvement and rational thinking methodologies.
• Follow all company animal welfare guidelines.
• Other duties as directed.
BASIC SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Must be able to work safely
• Must be able to work shift assigned days/nights including some Saturdays
• Ability to apply common sense and comprehend simple instructions
• Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Ability to work in cool temperatures (around 40 degrees)
• Ability to stand and use hands for 8-11 hours per day
• Ability to multitask and work quickly
• Must be a team player and be willing to work close to other employees at some stations that are less than 3 feet apart.
• Must have good communication skills.
• Good hand and eye coordination required.
EOE, including disability/vets.   

    

Please give us a call after completing an application.
870-584-5324

870-584-5321
  


What Pilgrim's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Pilgrim's logo

About Pilgrim's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pilgrim's is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, including well-recognized brands and value-added premium products. As one of the world's largest poultry producers, Pilgrim's has provided wholesome, quality products to customers and consumers for more than seven decades. It's our passion for excellence that continues to drive us to be the best, and we seek opportunities to diversify and grow.

Industry

Animal farming

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greeley, CO, US

Year founded

1946

Social media