This Job offering is in the state of Colorado and requires relocation.
Company Overview
Rocky Mountain Meats is a USDA-inspected meat processing facility located in Cortez, Colorado. We are dedicated to producing high-quality beef products with a strong commitment to food safety, humane handling, and regulatory compliance. We are seeking a skilled carcass breaker with professional boning and trimming experience to join our team.
Job Summary
The Boning & Trimming / Carcass Breaker is responsible for breaking, boning, trimming, and fabricating beef carcasses according to precise specifications in a USDA-regulated facility. This role requires excellent knife skills, experience in USDA production, and a strong focus on safety and yield.
Key Responsibilities
Carcass Breaking & Fabrication
Break beef carcasses into primals and subprimals.
Perform accurate boning and trimming to maximize yield and efficiency.
Follow exact cutting specifications for wholesale, retail, or custom orders.
Maintain sharp knives and tools throughout the shift.
Food Safety & USDA Compliance
Follow all USDA regulations, HACCP programs, SSOPs, and internal protocols.
Maintain strict sanitation practices and prevent cross-contamination.
Report abnormalities, quality concerns, or defects immediately.
Interact professionally with USDA inspectors as needed.
Safety & Equipment Operation
Safely use all knives, saws, PPE, and other cutting equipment.
Adhere to plant safety procedures and ergonomic cutting techniques.
Report equipment issues immediately.
Productivity & Teamwork
Meet production targets for speed, yield, and product quality.
Collaborate effectively with other cutters and trimmers.
Assist with training new or less experienced staff when needed.
Required Qualifications
Minimum two (2) years of boning, trimming, or carcass breaking experience in a USDA-inspected meatpacking plant (required).
Strong knife-handling and sharpening abilities.
Ability to work in cold environments (34–45°F).
Capable of lifting 50–80 lbs regularly and standing for extended periods.
Reliable, punctual, and attentive to detail.
Understanding of basic HACCP, sanitation, and food-safety principles.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience breaking beef hindquarters and forequarters.
HACCP or food-safety certification.
Ability to follow detailed cutting specifications.
Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
Work Environment
Cold production area (34–45°F).
Fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
PPE provided (cut-resistant gloves, aprons, smocks, etc.).
Full-time position; overtime may be required during peak periods.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
Paid time off and paid holidays.
401(k) retirement plan.
Opportunities for advancement and continued skills training.
Relocation Assistance Available
How to Apply
Rocky Mountain Meats in Cortez, Colorado is hiring now. If you have the required experience and want to join a respected USDA-inspected beef processing operation, apply today.