Use hands or hand tools to perform routine cutting and trimming of meat, poultry, and seafood.
SOC: 51-3022.00
Common Job Titles
Deboner
Meat Cutter
Trimmer
Wing Scorer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform routine cutting and trimming of meat, poultry, and seafood products using hand tools such as boning knives, butcher knives, and cleavers in production environments.
Developing
Hands-onOperate meat processing equipment including bandsaws, grinders, and slicers following safety protocols and production standards under supervision.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify quality characteristics and defects in meat, poultry, and seafood products during inspection and sorting processes to ensure food safety standards.
Developing
Hands-onHandle meat products and materials using hoisting equipment, conveyors, and manual tools in refrigerated environments while maintaining product integrity and safety.
Developing
KnowledgeApply food production and processing knowledge when determining appropriate cutting techniques and portion sizes for various meat types.
Developing
Hands-onExecute weighing, labeling, and packaging procedures using meat scales, pricing guns, and wrapping machines to prepare products for sale.
Developing
KnowledgeDistinguish different cuts and grades of meat, poultry, and seafood to ensure accurate processing and compliance with customer specifications.
Developing
MindsetEngage in safe work practices and sanitation protocols when handling food products in processing facilities to protect public health.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate product quantities and yields using mathematical calculations to minimize waste and meet production targets.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate knife sharpening and maintenance tools to ensure cutting equipment remains in optimal working condition throughout shifts.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
141,090
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,200. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,050. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,700. 75th percentile: U.S. $43,450. 90th percentile: U.S. $48,680. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$29,200
10% of workers earn the following or more
$48,680
Workers on average earn
$38,640
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing4.0/5
Food Production4.0/5
Public Safety and Security3.6/5
Mathematics3.6/5
Administration and Management3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
