Perform nonroutine or precision functions involving the preparation of large portions of meat. Work may include specialized slaughtering tasks, cutting standard or premium cuts of meat for marketing, making sausage, or wrapping meats. Work typically occurs in slaughtering, meat packing, or wholesale establishments.
SOC: 51-3023.00
Common Job Titles
Boning Room Worker
Meat Packer
Meat Processor
Meat Wrapper
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onExecute specialized slaughtering and meat cutting procedures using butcher knives, cleavers, and meat-cutting bandsaws in high-volume processing facilities.
Developing
Hands-onOperate meat processing equipment including grinders, slicers, and packaging machines following safety protocols and production standards in wholesale establishments.
Developing
Hands-onHandle large meat portions and carcasses using hoisting equipment and conveyor systems while maintaining food safety standards.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain food production processes and meat quality standards to team members and supervisors in slaughtering and packing environments.
Developing
KnowledgeCompare meat cuts against quality specifications and grading standards using meat grading probes and visual inspection techniques.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify standard and premium cuts of meat for marketing purposes in accordance with production and processing requirements.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain regulatory compliance requirements for food safety and public health when working under law and government standards in meat processing facilities.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate food scales and RFID tracking devices to ensure accurate meat weighing, labeling, and inventory management.
Developing
KnowledgeApply quality control procedures by monitoring processes and inspecting meat products throughout the production line.
Developing
MindsetEngage in safe work practices and sanitation protocols when handling sharp cutting tools and operating machinery under time constraints.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in team coordination and communication with supervisors, peers, and quality control personnel in fast-paced production settings.
Developing
Hands-onPerform basic maintenance on knives, sharpening steels, and cutting equipment to maintain optimal cutting precision and workplace efficiency.
Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Slaughterers and Meat Packers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
67,500
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,470. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,940. 50th percentile: U.S. $39,790. 75th percentile: U.S. $45,930. 90th percentile: U.S. $49,460. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,470
10% of workers earn the following or more
$49,460
Workers on average earn
$40,710
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
Food Production3.4/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
English Language3.1/5
Law and Government2.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
