Chicken Hand Cutter

Martin Foods; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Full time

Job summary

Martin Foods is seeking a Poultry Hand Trimmer to manually trim, cut, and inspect poultry products along a fast-paced production line. You will use knives and hand tools while ensuring safety, quality, and adherence to sanitation standards. The role requires attention to detail and the ability to work in cold conditions.

The job emphasizes consistent trimming speed, teamwork, and compliance with PPE and safety protocols on the production floor.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.
• Willingness to work in cold, wet, or refrigerated conditions.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Perform hand trimming and cutting of poultry according to specifications.
• Remove defects such as excess fat, skin, bone fragments, or bruises.
• Use knives and hand tools safely and efficiently.
• Inspect products for quality and food safety standards.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Report defects, equipment issues, or safety concerns to supervision.
• Follow USDA, sanitation, and company policies.

Skills

Numerical literacy

Manual dexterity

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Overtime readiness

Tools

Knives

Job description

Objective

The Poultry Hand Trimmer is responsible for manually trimming, cutting, and inspecting poultry products to meet quality, safety, and production standards. This position requires the use of knives and hand tools while working on a fast‑paced production line. The ideal candidate is detail oriented, able to work in cold environments, and committed to food safety and quality.

Primary Job Duties

• Perform hand trimming and cutting of poultry products according to company specifications
• Remove defects such as excess fat, skin, bone fragments, or bruises
• Use knives and hand tools safely and efficiently
• Inspect products for quality and food safety standards
• Maintain consistent trimming speed to meet production line requirements
• Follow all USDA, food safety, sanitation, and company policies
• Properly handle, store, and clean tools and equipment
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation
• Report product defects, equipment issues, or safety concerns to supervision
• Comply with PPE, hygiene, and safety requirements at all times
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

Qualifications Required

• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Willingness to work in cold, wet, or refrigerated conditions
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods

Preferred

• Previous poultry or meat processing experience
• Experience using knives or hand tools in a production setting
• Knowledge of food safety or USDA regulations

Skill Requirements

Must be able to read and write numbers and be able to read written English instructions. Manual dexterity and hand eye coordination. Attention to detail and quality. Ability to work as part of a team. Dependability and strong attendance. Safety conscious mindset. Must be willing to work weekly overtime, and occasional weekends as needed.

Physical Requirements

Standing, walking, bending, stretching, climbing, pushing, pulling and reaching are required. Ability to perform repetitive motions. Ability to lift up to 25–50 pounds as needed. Ability to work in cold temperatures and wet environments. Ability to wear required PPE, including gloves, aprons, hairnets, and protective equipment.

Working Conditions

Poultry manufacturing or food processing facility. Exposure to cold temperatures, moisture, noise, and moving equipment. Strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and safety protocols required.