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Production Associate First Jobs in Cambridge, MD

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products ... We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and ...

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products ... We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and ...

Warehouse Associate

Seaford, DE · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Thompson First Group is seeking Warehouse Associates for temporary to hire opportunities for a local client in Seaford, DE. Candidates with a background working in production, manufacturing ...

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Production Associate First information

See Cambridge, MD salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do production associate first jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for production associate first in Cambridge, MD is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Production Associate First vs Production Associate Second?

AspectProduction Associate FirstProduction Associate Second
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production floor, fast-pacedSimilar environment, often with increased responsibilities
Employer UsageEntry-level position in manufacturingNext step in production roles, requiring more experience

The main difference between Production Associate First and Production Associate Second lies in experience and responsibilities. Production Associate Second typically has more on-the-job experience and may handle additional tasks or supervise certain processes. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments, but the second level often involves increased duties and skill requirements.

What are entry-level production associate jobs?

Entry-level production associate jobs involve performing basic tasks in manufacturing or production environments, such as assembling products, operating machinery, and maintaining cleanliness. These roles typically require little prior experience and may involve working in shifts, with opportunities to learn skills like quality control and safety procedures.

What is an entry-level production associate?

An entry-level production associate is a worker who performs basic tasks in a manufacturing or production environment, often requiring minimal prior experience. They typically handle tasks such as assembling products, operating machinery, and maintaining safety standards, with opportunities to learn on the job and develop skills for advancement.

What should a production associate do?

A production associate is responsible for assisting in the manufacturing process by operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. They typically follow safety protocols, work in a team environment, and may need to use tools or equipment specific to the production line.

What cities near Cambridge, MD are hiring for Production Associate First jobs?

Cities near Cambridge, MD with the most Production Associate First job openings:

Production Associate Lead - 1st Shift

Salisbury, MD • On-site


Perdue Farms

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks


$19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
Step into a leadership role that helps drive production excellence. As a Production Associate Lead, you will oversee daily operations across assigned production lines and processing areas while supporting sanitation standards and safe food handling practices. You will guide and support team members working with raw and cooked poultry products, helping ensure quality, efficiency, and a safe work environment. Current assignments may include leading operations within Tenders, Big Bird, and Shipping departments. This role is ideal for motivated associates who enjoy leading teams, maintaining high standards, and making a direct impact on production success.
This position is located in the Injection department.
This position has a base rate of $19.50 per hour, with opportunities for pay premiums, shift differentials and overtime where applicable. Annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.
Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Oversees work at various stations along the production lines processing poultry food products.
  • Adheres to all safety requirements including PPE, preventing and reporting unsafe acts and conditions, Lockout-Tagout procedures, and Process Safety Management related matters.
  • Ensures that the qualities of the products are being met according to the product specification of QA and USDA.
  • Ensures that all equipment throughout the departments are running smoothly.
  • Maintains a clean and safe working environment.

Minimum Education and Experience
  • High School diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Must have lead or supervisory experience in production environment preferred.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors
When in a plant environment:
  • Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
  • May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
  • May handle product 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
  • May be exposed to dust, feathers and all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing facility.
  • Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
  • Occasional exposure to carbon dioxide vapors 10ppm and chlorine less than 20 ppm.
  • Able to stand for several hours.
  • Work may include lifting (up to 50 lbs), reaching, bending, pushing boxes on conveyor assembly.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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