Slaughterers and Meat Packers
Slaughterers and meat packers perform specialized tasks in preparing meat for sale and distribution. Work includes slaughtering animals, cutting meat into standard or premium cuts, making sausage products, and wrapping meat for market. These workers are typically employed in slaughtering facilities, meat packing plants, and wholesale meat establishments.
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A day in the work
A typical week involves operating specialized equipment, handling large portions of meat, and performing repetitive cutting and processing tasks. Workers may focus on a specific stage, such as slaughtering, breaking down carcasses, trimming cuts, or packaging. The work requires attention to food safety standards, proper sanitation procedures, and maintaining production schedules. Most positions involve standing for extended periods in controlled temperature environments.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on, practical work with clear procedures and measurable results. You work well in structured environments with established rules and standards, and you're comfortable with detailed, repetitive tasks that require consistency and precision.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $45,270 | $50,480 | $57,950 | 1,590 |
| Arizona | $48,950 | $49,020 | $58,870 | 440 |
| Nebraska | $45,060 | $48,910 | $51,740 | 5,480 |
| Kansas | $45,800 | $48,240 | $49,410 | 2,170 |
| Montana | $43,410 | $46,700 | $48,860 | 80 |
| South Carolina | $37,490 | $46,000 | $46,630 | 250 |
| Oregon | $37,390 | $45,980 | $48,360 | 360 |
| Oklahoma | $34,770 | $45,970 | $45,970 | 1,560 |
| Michigan | $41,650 | $45,850 | $53,120 | 2,920 |
| New Jersey | $35,560 | $45,230 | $55,850 | 1,050 |
| Washington | $44,040 | $45,100 | $48,010 | 840 |
| Illinois | $35,310 | $44,950 | $48,810 | 3,360 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- AMSA Meat Evaluation Certification — American Meat Science Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against slaughterers and meat packers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-3023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.