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Usda Meat Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Red Barn Meats, Inc.

Meat Cutter

Croghan, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

We have built a reputable customer base providing both USDA and custom meat processing as well as ... Pre-operational inspection of equipment for cleanliness Setting up equipment Cut, grind, and ...

Snelling Austin

Meat Cutter / Meat Processor

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Inspect meat for quality, freshness, and proper texture before and after cutting. * Maintain clean and sanitary work areas in compliance with food safety regulations (USDA, HACCP). * Follow ...

Bridges Staffing

Butcher/Meat Cutter

Grand Bay, AL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

USDA Beef Processing Facility Hiring Butchers in Grand Bay, AL. Job Details: * Pay Range: $18-$24 ... Inspect meat according to federal and health department standards. * Prepare specialty meat items ...

Shop - Ebels General Store

Retail Meat Cutter

Evart, MI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Receive, inspect, and properly store meat products to ensure quality and freshness. * Load and ... Perform all work in compliance with company handbook, sanitation SOPs, and USDA/FSIS regulations.

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How much do usda meat inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda meat inspection in the United States is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a USDA Meat Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, animal science, and inspection procedures, typically supported by relevant training or an associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and USDA data management systems is essential. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying violations and coordinating with plant personnel. These skills and qualities ensure the safety and quality of meat products, protecting public health and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are USDA meat inspectors and what do they do?

USDA meat inspectors are professionals employed by the United States Department of Agriculture to ensure that meat and poultry products are safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. They inspect facilities that process meat and poultry, examine animals before and after slaughter, and verify that sanitary and safety standards are maintained. Their work helps to protect public health by preventing contaminated or unfit meat from entering the food supply. Inspectors also enforce federal regulations and may collect product samples for laboratory analysis.

What is the difference between Usda Meat Inspection vs Meat Processing Technician?

AspectUsda Meat InspectionMeat Processing Technician
CertificationsUSDA certification, food safety trainingFood safety, equipment operation, sometimes USDA or state certifications
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, slaughterhouses, processing plantsProcessing plants, production lines, meat packaging facilities
Job FocusInspecting meat for safety, compliance, and qualityProcessing, packaging, and handling meat products

While both roles work within the meat industry, USDA Meat Inspection focuses on ensuring meat safety and compliance through inspection, whereas Meat Processing Technicians handle the processing and packaging of meat products. Both require food safety knowledge, but USDA Meat Inspectors primarily perform oversight and compliance checks, often with USDA certification, in inspection environments. Meat Processing Technicians are more involved in the production process, operating equipment and preparing meat for sale.

What is the highest salary of a food inspector?

The highest salary for a USDA meat inspector can exceed $70,000 annually, especially for experienced inspectors or those in supervisory roles. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and level of responsibility, with some inspectors earning over $80,000 with overtime and benefits.

What do meat inspectors make?

Meat inspectors working for the USDA typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and supervisory roles, and inspectors often work in regulated environments that require adherence to safety standards and inspection procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by USDA Meat Inspectors during daily inspections?

USDA Meat Inspectors often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict attention to detail while inspecting high volumes of products, adapting to varying facility conditions, and staying current with evolving regulations. They must ensure food safety by identifying potential contamination or non-compliance, sometimes under time constraints or in fast-paced environments. Collaboration with plant staff and effective communication are essential for addressing issues and ensuring corrective actions are implemented promptly.

What does it take to become a USDA meat inspector?

To become a USDA meat inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training provided by the USDA. They must also pass written and practical exams, and often have some experience in meat processing or food safety. Certification and ongoing training are required to maintain employment in this role.

How long does it take to become a meat inspector?

Becoming a USDA meat inspector typically requires completing a training program that lasts several weeks to a few months, followed by on-the-job training and passing a certification exam. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some experience in meat processing or food safety can be beneficial.
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Usda Meat Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Usda Meat Inspection job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,697 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Meat Inspection Department (MID) Operator - Erlanger, KY

Meat Inspection Department (MID) Operator - Erlanger, KY

Archer Daniels Midland

Erlanger, KY

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 358 rated logistics

Job description

Meat Inspection Department (MID) Operator - Erlanger, KY
Function Hourly
Job Description-  
  • Make, process and pack meat concentrates, pastes and dried powders. 
  • Operate steam jacketed kettles, vacuum dryers and pumps. 
  • Comfortable in processing meat in accordance with USDA standards.
  • Ensure accurate additions of raw materials and intermediates into batches. 
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Read, understand and follow all instructions listed on Manufacturing Orders.
  • Check and add all raw materials or pre-weighed materials listed on Manufacturing Orders.  If necessary, precisely weigh raw materials and intermediates as listed on orders and reports.
  • Must have the ability to lift 50lbs repetitively, and to not exceed 56lbs at any time.
  • Proper use of all equipment and tools to safely transport or transfer heavy objects, materials or product from one place to another.
  • Follow QC and sampling procedures.  Report QC deviations to Management. Execute formula adjustments according to QC and formula requirements.
  • Package and sample products according to customer requirements as listed on orders and other documents.  Report variances or any other deviations to Management.
  • Execute all required transactions on the terminals software and hand held scanners.
  • Follow hazardous label guidelines and properly handling and transport of hazardous materials throughout the facilities and for customers
  • Follow all Kosher, Allergen, BATF, USDA, and other regulatory procedures and requirements, working with the Rabbi on Koshering all equipment and work with USDA inspector regarding inspections of equipment.
  • Follow ISO9001, GMP and HACCP procedures to ensure product safety.
  • Must be able to meet the requirements for the respirator program up to and including, but not limited to passing the pulmonary function testing and respirator fit tests.
Minimum Requirements
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) or equivalent
  • Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred
  • Ability to act in a professional manner and adhere by ADM's Code of Conduct
  • Must be able to lift up to 55 lbs
  • Must be able to perform physical tasks for extended periods of time including standing, walking, climbing, bending, pushing, pulling and twisting over surfaces
  • Ability to wear protective clothing and equipment such as safety shoes, face masks, safety glasses, hearing protection, a hard hat, and gloves when required
  • Ability to work in hot, cold, noisy, dusty, wet working conditions
  • Ability to work with allergens that might be present in a manufacturing environment
  • Self-motivated with a solid work ethic
  • Good attitude and works well in team atmosphere.
  • Handles other duties as required.
  • Maintain excellent attendance.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:111236BR

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