Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Use hands or hand tools to perform routine cutting and trimming of meat, poultry, and seafood.
Median pay: $38,300/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +5.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 18,400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Use knives, cleavers, meat saws, bandsaws, or other equipment to perform meat cutting and trimming.
• Weigh meats and tag containers for weight and contents.
• Inspect meat products for defects, bruises or blemishes and remove them along with any excess fat.
• Cut and trim meat to prepare for packing.
• Separate meats and byproducts into specified containers and seal containers.
What's the median pay for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers?
The median pay for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers is $38,300 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers?
Employment for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers is projected to change +5.5% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers?
About 18,400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.