Hatchery Production Operator — Quality & Safety Focus

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. Hatchery Production Associate Hurlock, Maryland, United States Apply Job ID 80020 Job Category Live Production Date posted 05/20/2026 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 As a Hatchery Production Associate, you play a key role in creating the optimal environment where healthy, high-quality chicks begin their journey. This hands-on position supports a variety of essential hatchery activities that ensure proper incubation, hatching, and care, all while maintaining precise environmental conditions. Your work directly contributes to delivering a superior product to Perdue Farms growers and helps to uphold the high standards of quality, care, and excellence that define our operations. This position has a base rate of $17.00 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, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts, and paid time off. Schedule : Monday through Friday with weekend work (Saturday and/or Sunday as required based on department schedules and production needs. Shift assignments vary by department. Dayshift hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM Wednesday 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM Nightshift hours Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 4:30 PM to 1:00 AM Correctly receive, set, and transfer approximately 991,440 eggs per week, ensuring minimum damage while maximizing hatchability. Thoroughly clean and sanitize entire hatchery, which may include 68 hatchers and setters, 37 evaporative coolers, 14 heaters and associated duct work, reducing to the greatest extent possible the presence of mold and bacteria. Properly and efficiently operate tray wash and/or separator machines, ensuring maximum throughput with minimum product damage. Safely transport and process approximately 250,000 chicks daily, ensuring accurate chick distribution and proper chick quality control. Perform all duties as requested by management in a timely and efficient manner, in accordance with hatchery and company standard operating procedures, while fostering team spirit and morale. Preferred Education and Experience High school or equivalent. Reading and writing skills. Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors Moving in an upright position and working on wet, dry, and often slippery concrete floors for up to 4 hours in a single interval. Must be able to lift overhead and control 35 lbs to a height of approximately 84 inches. Exposure to temperatures from Extended exposure to temperatures from 99° to 101° with 82% humidity for periods up to 2 hours in a single interval. Exposure to noise ranges of 110db and light intensity range of Bending, twisting, and lifting, while grasping containers weighing up to 35 lbs, at intervals up to 10 times per minute, at maximum forward angles of 30-60°. Squatting, lifting and carrying weights of up to 35 lbs while walking distances of 10 – 20 feet. Exposure to chlorinated water Must wear and/or use personal protective equipment/devices in accordance with SOPs and company directives. 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. Don't see what you’re looking for? Sign up and we'll notify you when roles become available. Email Job Category Location Confirm Email By submitting your information, you acknowledge that you have read our privacy policy and consent to receive email communication from Perdue. #J-18808-Ljbffr Perdue Farms