Shelbyville Hatchery - Hatchery Worker Labor HY01 - FT (1st Shift in Decherd,TN) - OCTOBER 2026

Tyson Foods; Decherd (TN); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Tyson Foods is seeking an entry-level Hatchery Worker to perform tasks in hatchery operations, including transferring chicks, sorting, cleaning equipment, and maintaining accurate records while upholding animal welfare, biosecurity, and safety standards.

The role requires physical stamina, the ability to work in hot and humid environments, and compliance with AWB training, background checks, and post-offer health screening. 1st shift; full-time hours.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Basic math skills required.
• Must pass a background check.
• Completion of Animal Well‑Being (AWB) training required.
• Applicants must be 18 years of age.
• Proof of authorization to work in the United States and pass a urinalysis screening are required.

Responsibilities

• Safely transfer chicks from hatchers to chick separator areas.
• Load chick trays, box chicks, and prepare for transport to farms.
• Assist in loading box chicks onto trucks for delivery.
• Conduct pre‑pull counts of hatching chicks before processing.
• Perform routine checks of setters, hatchers, and related equipment; record data.

Skills

Dependable & punctual

Attention to detail

Teamwork & communication

Ability to follow safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Animal Well‑Being (AWB) training

Job description

Job Details:

Your future starts here. We are a global multi protein Company. We take pride in feeding families. Become part of a team that is engaged in the production of food in order to feed the Nation.

Summary

All qualified candidates will be considered for entry‑level positions that may be available in any of our Hatchery departments. Candidates may be invited to attend a tour, so they can see the jobs in each department.

Job Summary

The Hatchery Worker is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to hatching, handling, and preparing chicks for transport while maintaining strict animal welfare, biosecurity, and safety standards. Duties include transferring chicks, monitoring hatchery equipment, cleaning and sanitizing machines and rooms, and maintaining accurate records. This role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work in varying environmental conditions to support successful hatchery operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely transfer chicks from hatchers to chick separator areas.
• Correctly load chick trays, box chicks, and prepare them for transport to farms.
• Assist in loading dollies of boxed chicks onto trucks for delivery.
• Conduct pre‑pull counts of hatching chicks before processing.
• Perform routine checks of setters, hatchers, and related equipment; record temperature and condition data.
• Respond to alarms, equipment issues, or emergencies and notify management immediately.
• Clean and sanitize hatchers, trays, dollies, hallways, and associated pipes.
• Remove and sanitize equipment in hatchers as required.
• Collect, clean, and return reusable chick boxes and trays.
• Accurately complete and submit required paperwork at the end of each run.
• Report any injuries, product issues, or power outages to management.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Basic math skills required.
• Must pass a background check.
• Completion of Animal Well‑Being (AWB) training required.
• Applicants must be 18 years of age.
• All job offers are based on the conditions that the candidate can provide proof of authorization to work legally in the United States and pass a urinalysis screening which is part of the post‑offer health assessment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Dependable and punctual with strong attendance.
• Attention to detail and strong safety awareness.
• Ability to work independently after training.
• Effective teamwork and communication skills.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Stand, walk, bend, and squat for 8–12 hours per shift.
• Lift up to 40 lbs overhead occasionally.
• Repetitive pushing, pulling, reaching, and lifting.
• Work in hot, humid, wet, noisy, dusty, and dark environments.
• Work in elevated or enclosed spaces and narrow passageways.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Slip‑resistant shoes/boots: Required
• Hearing protection: Required
• Eye protection: Required
• Gloves: Required when handling chemicals or as designated
• Any other PPE required by plant policy

Standard Performance Expectations & Ramp‑Up Program

Qualification Period: 4 weeks

• Week 1 (25%) – Shadow experienced worker, assist with basic handling and cleaning tasks.
• Week 2 (50%) – Perform routine chick transfer and equipment cleaning with supervision.
• Week 3 (75%) – Independently conduct checks, recordkeeping, and sanitation tasks.
• Week 4 (100%) – Fully trained; perform all hatchery duties independently and meet documentation standards.

Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

Potential Hazards & Controls

• Musculoskeletal Strain – Use proper lifting techniques; ask for assistance when needed.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls – Maintain clear walkways; wear slip‑resistant footwear.
• Temperature Exposure – Wear appropriate clothing; hydrate regularly.
• Noise Exposure – Use required hearing protection.
• Chemical Irritation – Wear appropriate PPE when handling cleaning agents.
• Equipment Hazards – Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures; stay alert for moving racks and trays.

Key Expectations

• Handle chicks safely and humanely, maintaining AWB standards at all times.
• Maintain accurate records and follow all biosecurity procedures.
• Keep work areas clean, safe, and organized.
• Communicate equipment or safety concerns promptly to management.
• Support hatchery operations with flexibility and problem‑solving skills.
• Accepting rehires: Yes
• Can not have worked with Tyson more than 3 times
• Rehire waiting period: 181 days

• The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Relocation Assistance Eligible: No

Work Shift: 1ST SHIFT (United States of America)

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.

We provide our team members and their families with paid time off; 401(k) plans; affordable health, life, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; and more.

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