Meat Laboratory Associate

Meat Laboratory AssociateThe Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences is currently seeking a Meat Laboratory Associate to assist in the research management and production operations of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) Meat Science and Muscle Biology Laboratory. The Meat Science and Muscle Biology Laboratory is a 15,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art processing facility.Responsibilities include but are not limited to:Harvest, fabrication, processing, distribution, and retailing of meat products.Assist with research projects and teaching activities.Fulfill USDA (FSIS) inspection, HACCP, and SSOP requirements.Assist in the training and supervision of undergraduate and graduate students.Maintain a safe and clean facility.Operation and maintenance of specialized equipment.Multiple units on campus utilize the Meat Science and Muscle Biology Laboratory. The successful candidate will be expected to work with faculty from all departments.In addition to the job requirements listed above, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to explore an advanced degree.Minimum qualifications:Education: High School Diploma or GED. Substitution allowed: An equivalent combination of related education and related experience may be considered for this position.Preferred qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Animal and Dairy Science or a closely related field. Preference will be given to a candidate with meat laboratory management or meats judging experience.Knowledge, skills, and abilities:Knowledge of all aspects of butchery including, but not limited to, harvest, fabrication, retail merchandising, further processing and cooking. Must have knowledge of USDA regulations regarding meat processing establishments and comprehensive experience in HACCP, GMPs, SSOPS, Pest Control, and Biosecurity.Working conditions and physical effort:Frequent heavy or intense physical requirements may be required. The position has routine deadlines; usually, sufficient lead time; variance in work volume seasonal and predictable; priorities can be anticipated; some interruptions are present; involves occasional exposure to demands and pressures from persons other than the immediate supervisor. Job frequently requires standing, walking, talking, hearing, handling objects with hands, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Job occasionally requires sitting, climbing, or balancing, stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling, and lifting more than 100 pounds.Instructions for applying:All applicants MUST complete the online application located at to be considered for this position. A cover letter, resume, academic transcripts (with any social security numbers redacted), and contact information for three references should be submitted with the application.Screening date: October 8, 2026, until filled.Equal employment opportunity statement:Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, View phone number on click.appcast.io.What do I do if I need an accommodation?In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.