Overview

In the process of slaughtering a person who works in packing/scales will manually or with the use of machinery to package, weigh and sort processed slaughtered beef, sheep, goat, fish, pork and/or poultry to meet compliance standards and targets.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Knowledge of animal anatomy and cuts of meat
• Adhere to safety procedures and policies to slaughter animals
• Weigh processed meat using scales
• Package or bag processed meat using equipment
• Label and sort packaged meat for sale
• Check products to ensure they are up to standards
• Monitor machines and equipment, and adjust if necessary
• Maintain and clean machines used in meat preparing process

What education and training is required?

A high school diploma is required for a slaughter processor -packing/scales career and advanced training or an associate’s degree in meat science or agricultural business may be preferred for some careers.

To pursue a career as a Slaughter Processer – Packaging/Scales:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, mathematics, culinary courses and computer courses.  

Where can I work?

You will find slaughter processor – packaging/scales jobs with large food processing companies, or you may also work at smaller independent animal processing facilities. 

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for slaughter processors – packaging/scales will be fair over the next five years.  

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• American Association of Meat Processors
• American Council for Food Safety and Quality
• Association of Meat Inspectors