Introduction
For more than a century, Perdue Farms has been a household name in the American food industry. Known primarily for its high-quality poultry and agricultural products, Perdue Farms is also recognized for its dedication to ethical farming, sustainability, and employee development. For job seekers looking for meaningful work with room for growth, Perdue Farms careers offer a wide array of opportunities in production, operations, technology, corporate roles, and beyond.
This article explores the various career paths available at Perdue Farms, outlines the company’s values and benefits, and provides guidance on how to apply — making it a comprehensive resource for prospective employees.
About Perdue Farms
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1920 by Arthur W. Perdue, Perdue Farms began as a small family-run business in Maryland and has grown into one of the most respected names in agribusiness. Today, it operates under two primary divisions:
- Perdue Foods: Specializes in branded chicken, turkey, and prepared food products.
- Perdue AgriBusiness: Focuses on grain, oilseed, and specialty feed ingredients.
Despite its growth, the company remains privately held and family-owned, upholding its founder’s values of quality, integrity, teamwork, and innovation.
Why Work at Perdue Farms?
1. Strong Company Culture
Perdue Farms prides itself on creating a workplace that values respect, safety, and diversity. Employees are treated not just as workers, but as contributors to a shared mission of feeding families and promoting responsible food production.
2. Career Growth and Training
From entry-level roles to specialized technical positions, Perdue Farms offers in-house training programs, leadership development, and career pathing to support employee growth.
3. Commitment to Sustainability and Animal Welfare
Employees take pride in working for a company known for its No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) poultry, animal welfare certifications, and environmental stewardship programs.
Types of Careers at Perdue Farms
1. Production and Operations
These are the backbone of Perdue’s business. Jobs in this category include:
- Poultry processing line workers
- Equipment maintenance technicians
- Quality assurance inspectors
- Plant supervisors
These roles are typically based in one of Perdue’s many plants across the U.S. and are ideal for those seeking hands-on, stable work.
2. Skilled Trades and Maintenance
For individuals with technical expertise, Perdue offers careers in:
- Industrial electricians
- HVAC technicians
- Mechanical engineers
- Boiler operators
These positions are essential for keeping operations running smoothly and safely.
3. Transportation and Logistics
With nationwide distribution needs, Perdue employs:
- CDL truck drivers (local and regional routes)
- Logistics coordinators
- Fleet mechanics
Drivers are often home daily, and the company boasts competitive pay and benefits in this category.
4. Corporate and Professional Careers
Headquartered in Salisbury, Maryland, Perdue offers a range of corporate positions in:
- Finance and accounting
- Marketing and brand management
- Human resources
- IT and cybersecurity
- Legal and compliance
5. Research and Food Safety
Innovation drives Perdue’s success. Careers in this sector include:
- Food scientists
- Product developers
- Environmental engineers
- Laboratory technicians
6. Internships and Graduate Programs
Perdue invests in young professionals through:
- College internships in business, science, and technology
- Management Trainee Programs for recent graduates
- Agricultural apprenticeships
Benefits of Working at Perdue Farms
Perdue offers a comprehensive benefits package that goes beyond standard healthcare and retirement plans.
Health and Wellness:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Mental health resources and counseling
- On-site wellness clinics in some locations
Financial Benefits:
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Life and disability insurance
- Employee stock purchase program (ESPP)
Work-Life Balance:
- Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Flexible scheduling (in some roles)
Career and Education:
- Tuition reimbursement
- Internal promotion opportunities
- Continued education incentives
Applying for Jobs at Perdue Farms
Where to Start
All current job openings are listed on the. Job seekers can search by location, keyword, or job category.
Application Process:
- Online Application: Fill out an application with your resume and basic information.
- Phone Screening: Some roles include an initial phone interview.
- In-person or Virtual Interview: For select candidates.
- Background Check & Drug Screening: Conducted prior to employment.
Pro Tips:
- Tailor your resume to match the job description.
- Highlight any manufacturing, food safety, or agricultural experience.
- Showcase soft skills like teamwork, reliability, and communication.
Problem Solving Through Perdue Careers
Perdue doesn’t just offer jobs — it offers solutions to employment and community development challenges, including:
| Problem | Perdue’s Solution |
| Lack of skilled trade jobs | Apprenticeships and paid on-the-job training programs |
| Limited opportunities in rural areas | Career paths in plant operations in small towns |
| Need for diversity and inclusion | Targeted recruitment, Spanish-speaking resources, and DEI initiatives |
| Job insecurity | Full-time roles with benefits and internal mobility |
| Food industry sustainability | Ethical production, environmental education for employees |
Conclusion
Choosing a career at Perdue Farms means becoming part of a company that values its employees, community, and the planet. With diverse career paths, excellent benefits, and a strong ethical foundation, Perdue Farms offers more than just a paycheck — it offers a place to grow, thrive, and make a difference. Whether you’re just starting your career, switching industries, or seeking a meaningful role in food production, Perdue Farms careers may be the right step forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I apply for a job at Perdue Farms?
You can apply through the official Perdue Farms Careers website, where you can search for jobs by location or category.
Q2: What is the average pay at Perdue Farms?
Wages vary by position and location, but production roles often start at competitive hourly rates with room for increases based on performance and tenure.
Q3: Does Perdue Farms offer relocation assistance?
In some cases, especially for managerial or technical roles, relocation support may be available.
Q4: Are there remote or hybrid jobs at Perdue Farms?
Some corporate roles in areas like IT, marketing, or HR may offer hybrid or remote work options.
Q5: What is Perdue’s stance on animal welfare and sustainability?
Perdue is an industry leader in animal welfare, antibiotic-free poultry, and sustainable farming practices.
