START By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 Agricultural Careers Poultry Processor
Job Duties & Responsibilities Maintain a clean, hygienic environment Slaughter, dress, cut, prepare and track poultry Clean equipment and work area Unload live birds and load processed poultry for shipment Write delivery orders Pack processed poultry in bags or cartons Keep records of the products
Qualities and Skills Poultry processors should have a good eye in selecting quality poultry products. They should have a good understanding of the anatomy of the birds. They need to be able to work quickly and efficiently because generally they work on a production line which goes at a fast pace. Poultry processors should be able to work well with others and be problem solvers. Record keeping skills are important, especially in large processing plants where thousands of birds are processed daily.
Salary On average a poultry cutter and trimmer makes $23,000 to $34,000 annually. However, geographic region, education, and experience have an effect on salary.
Work Environment Indoors in a cool factory Must work foul odors Standing for long periods Outdoors loading and unloading Must work well with other people Unable to take many breaks with in the 8 hour shift Would be required to work with dangerous machinery
Becoming a Poultry Processor Education beyond high school is not necessary, but a degree in Agriculture, Food Science or Poultry Science would be very helpful if advancement is desired. In general, a college degree would increase the chances of higher pay. A poultry processor may begin in unloading and loading or on the production line, but advance to a supervisor position or administrative position through experience and education.
Career Resources Meat & Poultry Internet: Meat Process Internet: Poultry Processing Industry e-Tool Internet: U.S. Poultry and Egg Association Internet: International Association for Food Protection Internet: