Production Associate Lead - 2nd Shift

Perdue Farms; Salisbury (MD); On-site; USD 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Rx

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off

Short-term disability

Long-term disability

Dental

Job summary

Perdue Farms in Salisbury, Maryland is seeking a Production Associate Lead for the 2nd shift to oversee daily operations, guide teams, and ensure safety and quality across multiple production lines. You will lead teams, uphold sanitation, and drive continuous improvement while aligning with Perdue's values of teamwork and accountability.

A base rate of $19.50/hour and potential premiums reflect the role's responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Lead or supervisory experience in a production environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Willingness to work in a poultry processing plant environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversees work at various stations along the production lines processing poultry food products.
• Adheres to all safety requirements including PPE, preventing and reporting unsafe acts and conditions, Lockout-Tagout procedures, and Process Safety Management related matters.
• Ensures that the qualities of the products are being met according to the product specification of QA and USDA.
• Ensures that all equipment throughout the departments are running smoothly.
• Maintains a clean and safe working environment.

Skills

Reliable

Adaptable

Detail-oriented

Team Player

Education

High School diploma

Job description

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)

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

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.

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.

Production Associate Lead - 2nd Shift

Salisbury, Maryland, United States Job ID 80607 Job Category Production Date posted 07/13/2026

Perdue 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

Step into a leadership role that helps drive production excellence. As a Production Associate Lead, you will oversee daily operations across assigned production lines and processing areas while supporting sanitation standards and safe food handling practices. You will guide and support team members working with raw and cooked poultry products, helping ensure quality, efficiency, and a safe work environment. Current assignments may include leading operations within Tenders, Big Bird, and Shipping departments. This role is ideal for motivated associates who enjoy leading teams, maintaining high standards, and making a direct impact on production success.

This position is located in the Grading department.

This position has abase rateof$19.50perhour,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,vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

• Oversees work at various stations along the production lines processing poultry food products.
• Adheres to all safety requirements including PPE, preventing and reporting unsafe acts and conditions, Lockout-Tagout procedures, and Process Safety Management related matters.
• Ensures that the qualities of the products are being met according to the product specification of QA and USDA.
• Ensures that all equipment throughout the departments are running smoothly.
• Maintains a clean and safe working environment.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Must have lead or supervisory experience in production environment preferred.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

When in a plant environment:

• Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
• May handle product 25 degrees 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.
• Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
• Occasional exposure to carbon dioxide vapors 10ppm and chlorine less than 20 ppm.
• Able to stand for several hours.
• Work may include lifting (up to 50 lbs), reaching, bending, pushing boxes on conveyor assembly.

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.

Explore this location

Take a look at where you could be working

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.

Comprehensive healthcare options for employees and families.

Retirement Savings

401(k) plan with company match.

Paid Time Off

Paid time off for rest and recharge.

Opportunities for training and growth.

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.