About the role
Position Function
The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting in all aspects of the Meat Science and Muscle Biology laboratory management. This includes harvest, fabrication, processing, distribution, and retailing of meat products, as well as sanitation and supply inventory, while adhering to all USDA regulations.
Salary Grade: 12
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile
The 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.
Anticipated Appointment Date
October 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants MUST complete the online application located at www.jobs.msstate.edu 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, (662) 325-5839.
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: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.