JULY - Shelbyville Hatchery - Hatchery Worker Labor HY01 - FT (All Shifts in Decherd,TN)

We are a global multi-protein company focused on feeding families. Join a team engaged in food production to support the nation.

About the role

Entry-level positions in our Hatchery departments. Candidates may be invited to attend a tour to see the jobs in each department.

The Hatchery Worker performs tasks related to hatching, handling, and preparing chicks for transport while maintaining strict animal welfare, biosecurity, and safety standards. This role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work in varying environmental conditions.

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.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Basic math skills required.
• Must pass a background check and urinalysis screening (post-offer health assessment).
• Completion of Animal Well-Being (AWB) training required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Proof of authorization to work legally in the United States.

Skills

• 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

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

• 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.

Rehire Eligibility

• Accepting rehires: Yes
• Cannot have worked with Tyson more than 3 times.
• Rehire waiting period: 181 days.

Schedule

1st shift

Benefits

• Paid time off
• 401(k) plans
• Affordable health, life, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits