Manufacturing & Production

Meat Process Worker

SOC 51-3022.00 · ESCO 7511 · OSCA 831331

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Role snapshot

Overview

Prepares, trims, and packages meat products on a processing line, following strict food safety protocols and operating machinery such as mincers, slicers, and vacuum sealers. Ensures product quality and adheres to production schedules in a cold and often fast-paced environment.

Contributes to the efficient supply of safe, high-quality meat products to consumers, playing a vital role in the food supply chain and public health.

On the job

  • Operate and monitor meat processing machinery, including grinders, mixers, and cutting equipment
  • Trim, cut, and debone meat according to specifications and production standards
  • Package and label meat products for storage and distribution
  • Perform routine cleaning and sanitation of equipment and work areas
  • Inspect meat products for quality and adherence to food safety regulations
Meat Process Worker at work

Tools & technology

MincersSlicersVacuum sealersKnivesProtective gear (gloves, aprons)

Average salary

$40K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$30K Bottom 10%
$55K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

High school diploma or equivalent is often preferred, but on-the-job training is common. No specific higher education usually required.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Production Supervisor
Quality Control Inspector

CURRENT ROLE

Meat Process Worker

Manufacturing & Production

ADJACENT MOVES

Butcher
General Laborer
Food Production Assistant

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RCI

Individuals who enjoy practical, hands-on tasks, working with machinery, and following established procedures to produce tangible goods often find satisfaction in this role.

Personality characteristics

Methodical

Follows strict procedures and standards consistently for safety and quality.

Practical

Prefers hands-on tasks and tangible results over abstract concepts.

Focused

Maintains concentration on repetitive tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Calm under pressure

Remains steady and effective in demanding or fast-paced production settings.

Team-oriented

Works effectively alongside colleagues to meet production targets.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy hands-on work, operating equipment, and contributing to the production of essential goods.
  • Those who value precision, safety, and a structured work environment.

Watch out for

  • The work can be physically demanding and repetitive, requiring stamina and precision.
  • Working in cold environments and adhering to strict hygiene rules may not suit everyone.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Meat Process Worker — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Briefing
Meat Processing & Cutting
Packaging Line Operation
Tue
Deboning & Trimming
Quality Checks & Cleaning
Wed
Mincing & Mixing Operations
Product Labelling & Sorting
Thu
Slicing & Portioning
Vacuum Sealing & Storage Prep
Fri
Deep Cleaning & Equipment Maintenance
Production Review & Planning
Inventory & Supply Prep for Next Week
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

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