Production Associate
Salisbury, Maryland
Overview
The Production Associate, plays a vital role in ensuring product quality and supporting smooth daily operations. In this role, you will demonstrate keen attention to detail, reliability, and a commitment to safety as you manage production tasks that directly impact our standards and product excellence.
A successful candidate will collaborate with team members to monitor quality, maintain efficiency, and follow safety protocols that protect both the associate and team members. A high level of performance in this role is defined by your dedication to consistency, plus the ability to exceed production benchmarks, all of which offer you a path to grow within Perdue's supportive and development-focused culture.
- Full Time
- Travel: Minimal (if any)
- Level: Tmp.Platform.Core.Model.Job.Job
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Success Profile
What makes a successful Production Associate at Perdue? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.
- Reliable
- Adaptable
- Detail-oriented
- Team Player
- Efficient
- Safety-conscious
- Reliable
- Adaptable
- Detail-oriented
- Team Player
- Efficient
- Safety-conscious
Culture & Values
At Perdue, we believe that success starts with our people. Our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters, and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive as part of the Perdue family.
Learn More
production associate career path
The career path depicted below is intended as a potential roadmap, not a fixed journey. This path is designed to inspire you to explore different directions, based on your unique strengths and interests and allowing for personal and professional development. We encourage open conversations about your career goals to ensure that your journey at Perdue aligns with your aspirations.
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Production Associate
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Line Lead
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Production Supervisor
Production Associate
Salisbury, Maryland, United States Job ID 77476 Job Category Production Date posted 08/28/2025Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
Join our team as a Production Associate! We’re looking for dedicated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and safety. As a Production Associate, you’ll play a crucial role in various aspects of the production line processing poultry product. This position requires working with live poultry and raw products. Typical assignments may include live hang, debone, cut up, evisceration, and overwrap.
This position has a base rate of $16.50 per hour, with opportunities for pay premiums, shift differentials and overtime where applicable. Annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vison, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.
Eligible new hires in this location may receive a $1,000 incentive - terms and conditions do apply
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision coverage.
- Virtual/Telehealth Primary and Specialty Care, Paid Parental Leave, Mental Health Support, Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA), Employee Assistance Program, and Onsite Wellness Centers.
- Access to your pay in advance with PayActiv.
- Additional Voluntary Benefits: 401k Savings Plan, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Pet Insurance, Financial/Loan Coaching, Identity Theft Protection, Short and Long Term Disability and Life Insurance Options.
- Paid time off and holiday pay.
- Career advancement opportunities within the organization.
Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Works at various stations along the production line processing poultry food product.
- Operates machinery and equipment in accordance with safety protocols and standard operating procedures.
- Inspects poultry products for quality and consistency.
- Packages and labels finished products accurately and efficiently.
- Maintains a clean and organized work area to uphold food safety standards.
- Collaborates with team members to achieve production targets.
Minimum Education
- High School or equivalent not required but preferred.
Experience Preferred
- Experience in protein processing/manufacturing preferred.
Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements
When in a plant environment:
- Ability to tolerate exposure to wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
- Ability to stand for an extended period and perform repetitive tasks.
- Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs by reaching, bending, and pushing boxes.
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection as required.
- May work in an environment with varying temperatures between 28 degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May handle product varying in temperatures between 25 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
- May be exposed to dust, feathers and all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing facility.
- Occasional exposure to carbon dioxide vapors 10ppm and chlorine less than 20 ppm.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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Benefits and Well-Being
Competitive pay and a flexible benefits plan! We have an award-winning approach to associate health, wellness and safety and a flexible benefits plan that lets you match your coverage to your changing needs. We’ll reward you for your accomplishments, and help you reach your goals.
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Healthcare
Comprehensive healthcare options for employees and families.
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Retirement Savings
401(k) plan with company match.
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Paid Time Off
Paid time off for rest and recharge.
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Career Development
Opportunities for training and growth.
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Safety Equipment Provided
Safety gear and protocols ensured.
What I appreciate most about Perdue is the company's focus on safety and the sense of community among my colleagues. They really emphasize that every associate should go home safe and healthy each day, and you see that commitment in the daily safety huddles and inspections. It makes a difference knowing they care about us, and that teamwork makes the challenging work feel more manageable.