NSXNational Skills ExchangeSign in
Back to Framework

Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers

SOC 51-3022.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers commercial meat, poultry, and fish cutting and trimming operations in production and processing facilities, spanning tool operation, quality inspection, container management, regulatory compliance, and team leadership across Job Zone 2 career stages.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Basic knives and hand tools — identify and handle safely under direct supervisor guidance on the processing floor.
  2. Meat cutting protocols — follow step-by-step instructions to perform initial cuts and trims on standard carcass sections.
  3. Defects and blemishes — recognize and flag visible bruises or excess fat on meat products under close supervisor review.
  4. Portion weights — record and tag containers with weight and contents using a scale under direct instruction.
  5. Byproduct separation — sort meats and byproducts into designated containers following posted specifications.
  6. Personal protective equipment — don and maintain required gloves, aprons, and cut-resistant gear before beginning shift tasks.
  7. Sanitation standards — follow posted cleaning routines for workstation and tools at the start and end of each shift.
  8. Supervisor directions — listen actively and confirm understanding of daily cutting assignments before beginning work.
  9. Container sealing steps — apply correct sealing procedures to packed meat containers under direct oversight.
  10. Production counting — tally completed units and report tallies to a supervisor using a paper log or basic inventory entry.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Knives, cleavers, and bandsaws — operate with consistent precision to cut and trim assigned meat cuts with reduced oversight.
  2. Quality inspection — identify and remove defects, bruises, and excess fat from meat products routinely across a full production shift.
  3. Weight tagging — independently weigh portions and accurately label containers for weight and contents within acceptable tolerances.
  4. Byproduct routing — separate and route meats and byproducts to specified containers in a fast-paced processing environment.
  5. Production pace — maintain cutting output rates that meet line throughput targets while sustaining safety practices.
  6. Equipment condition monitoring — observe knives, saws, and cleavers for dullness or defects and report maintenance needs promptly.
  7. Inventory software entry — log completed production quantities and container contents into inventory management software at shift close.
  8. Verbal communication — clearly relay quality or safety concerns to a supervisor or line lead during active production.
  9. Packaging compliance — verify that sealed containers meet weight, labeling, and sealing specifications before staging for shipment.
  10. Stress management — sustain attention to detail and safe tool handling through repetitive tasks during high-volume production periods.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full cutting suite — operate knives, meat saws, and bandsaws autonomously across multiple cut types and species in a commercial processing facility.
  2. Non-routine defect assessment — evaluate ambiguous quality issues on meat products and make independent disposition decisions within food safety guidelines.
  3. Precision weight management — maintain portion accuracy across a high-volume shift and reconcile container weights against order specifications.
  4. Cross-functional byproduct handling — coordinate byproduct separation and container sealing with packaging and cold-storage teams to prevent bottlenecks.
  5. Safety and regulatory compliance — apply public safety and HACCP-aligned standards throughout daily operations without supervisor prompting.
  6. Production problem-solving — diagnose and resolve workflow disruptions such as equipment slowdowns or specification deviations on the line.
  7. Inventory and POS accuracy — generate and verify inventory records in management software and reconcile discrepancies against daily production logs.
  8. Mentoring newer cutters — demonstrate correct knife technique, inspection methods, and container labeling to less experienced workers during live production.
  9. Ergonomic and fatigue management — adjust body mechanics and rotation schedules for self and peers to sustain trunk strength and reduce injury risk.
  10. Product traceability — track lot numbers and container contents through the production chain to support recall-readiness and audit requirements.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Department cutting standards — establish and document best-practice protocols for knife use, trim specifications, and inspection criteria across the production team.
  2. Quality assurance leadership — lead daily inspections of meat products for defects and drive corrective actions that reduce waste and rework rates facility-wide.
  3. Production throughput strategy — design cutting workflow sequences and station layouts that optimize yield and meet high-volume order demands.
  4. Workforce scheduling and development — build shift rosters, assign skill-appropriate tasks, and create on-the-job training plans for a team of cutters and trimmers.
  5. Regulatory and audit accountability — serve as primary point of contact for food safety audits, ensuring all cutting, tagging, and sealing practices meet USDA and HACCP requirements.
  6. Technology integration — evaluate and implement inventory management and POS software enhancements that improve production tracking and reduce labeling errors.
  7. Cross-departmental coordination — align cutting and trimming output schedules with procurement, cold storage, and distribution teams to support facility-wide production goals.
  8. Performance metrics oversight — monitor yield rates, defect percentages, and weight accuracy data and present improvement recommendations to plant management.
  9. Safety culture leadership — champion a culture of cautiousness and dependability by modeling compliance and leading incident-prevention initiatives across the production floor.
  10. Vendor and specification management — evaluate supplier carcass quality against contract specifications and escalate non-conformances through proper administrative channels.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic AI tool awareness — recognizes that digital weight and labeling systems can auto-populate container tags, reducing manual transcription errors during routine packing tasks.
Developing
  1. Defect-detection support — consults AI-assisted vision system alerts to flag potential bruises or blemishes on product lines, then applies personal judgment to confirm removal decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Quality monitoring integration — interprets outputs from AI-enabled monitoring tools to track trim yield and defect rates in real time, adjusting cutting technique based on flagged anomalies WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Process-optimization direction — directs AI monitoring and control dashboards to correlate trimming patterns with yield loss data, communicates findings to supervisors, and recommends workflow adjustments grounded in both system output and hands-on floor expertise Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Cut order acknowledgment — repeats back verbal cut specifications to supervisor to confirm accuracy before beginning work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Container labeling — records weight and contents on tags using standard notation to communicate product information to downstream handlers O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Defect reporting — describes identified blemishes, bruises, or excess fat to line supervisors using consistent terminology to support quality control decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift handoff communication — conveys production status, equipment concerns, and pending orders to incoming crew members during transition periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-team coordination — communicates cut specifications and yield expectations clearly to packaging and weighing staff to maintain production flow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety incident reporting — documents and verbally reports equipment malfunctions or injury-risk conditions to supervisors using precise, actionable language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Production feedback delivery — articulates yield discrepancies and trimming inefficiencies to management with supporting observations that drive process corrections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. New-hire instruction — explains knife handling techniques, cut sequences, and sanitation protocols to new cutters using clear, step-by-step verbal guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task initiative — begins assigned cutting or trimming work without prompting when product arrives at station Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-assignment — identifies the next highest-priority cut based on order tags when direct supervision is temporarily unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Station ownership — maintains cleanliness, blade sharpness, and equipment readiness at personal cutting station without waiting for direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer assistance — guides a struggling co-worker through proper trimming technique during production without halting line throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Line pace setting — establishes a consistent cutting rhythm that anchors production speed for adjacent stations during peak processing periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality accountability — takes responsibility for correcting improperly trimmed cuts identified at inspection before they advance to packaging Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew mentorship — coaches less experienced cutters on blade angle, pressure, and waste reduction across multiple protein types to raise overall team yield Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement leadership — leads informal review of trimming procedures with team after yield losses, proposing and piloting corrective technique adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Error recognition — notices when a cut deviates from the specified trim weight or depth and self-corrects before the next piece Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning awareness — identifies which knife techniques require additional practice after receiving corrective feedback from a supervisor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Technique self-evaluation — assesses personal cutting speed and accuracy against production targets at end of each shift to identify skill gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration — adjusts grip and blade angle based on supervisor critique and monitors whether the adjustment improves cut consistency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Yield monitoring — tracks personal trim waste across a shift and modifies cutting approach when waste percentage trends above acceptable thresholds Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — sequences multi-species or multi-cut orders mentally before starting to reduce errors and unnecessary blade changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Performance benchmarking — compares own yield, speed, and defect-rejection rates against facility standards and develops a personal improvement plan Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge transfer reflection — evaluates the effectiveness of informal coaching provided to new hires by observing their technique improvements over subsequent shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Defect identification — distinguishes bruised, blemished, or contaminated meat from acceptable product during initial visual inspection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Specification checking — compares actual cut dimensions against order requirements before placing product in a container O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Root cause analysis — determines whether off-spec cuts result from blade dullness, product temperature, or technique error before adjusting approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Yield estimation — evaluates whether incoming primal weight will meet order quantity requirements before beginning breakdown Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Contamination judgment — evaluates ambiguous discoloration or texture anomalies against food safety standards to decide whether to pass, trim, or reject a piece Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment selection — selects between knife, cleaver, meat saw, or bandsaw based on protein type, cut geometry, and volume requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process bottleneck analysis — identifies upstream or downstream factors causing throughput delays and recommends sequencing or staffing adjustments to supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality trend evaluation — detects patterns in recurring defects across incoming stock and raises supplier quality concerns with documented evidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Station coordination — adjusts personal cutting pace to match the throughput of adjacent weighing and packaging stations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared tool use — communicates bandsaw or cleaver availability to co-workers to prevent workflow conflicts during simultaneous orders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Byproduct sorting — coordinates with teammates to separate and route byproducts into designated containers according to shared facility protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Coverage support — assists a co-worker's station during high-volume periods to prevent bottlenecks without being asked Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-function collaboration — works with quality control inspectors and packaging staff to resolve cut-weight discrepancies before product is sealed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift goal alignment — participates in pre-shift briefings and adjusts personal production targets to support overall line output commitments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team yield optimization — collaborates with supervisors and co-workers to redesign station layout or cut sequence to reduce waste and improve throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation — mediates workload disputes between line workers during high-pressure production runs to maintain team cohesion and output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety compliance — follows PPE requirements including cut-resistant gloves and chain mail consistently from the start of each shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest reporting — accurately records actual product weights on container tags without rounding or falsifying figures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sanitation accountability — cleans and sanitizes personal cutting station, tools, and surfaces to food safety standards at prescribed intervals without supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Defect disclosure — reports identified meat defects or contamination to supervisors even when doing so slows personal production numbers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulatory adherence — follows USDA and facility food safety protocols consistently under production pressure without cutting corners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability ownership — acknowledges and corrects personal trimming errors rather than passing non-conforming product to the next station Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical escalation — reports observed food safety violations or unsafe equipment conditions by colleagues to supervisors despite potential social friction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional modeling — demonstrates consistent adherence to hygiene, safety, and quality standards that establishes a behavioral benchmark for newer team members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Waste minimization experimentation — tries alternative knife angles on irregular cuts to recover usable meat that would otherwise be trimmed as waste Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem improvisation — adapts cutting approach when standard equipment is temporarily unavailable to maintain production continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cut sequencing innovation — develops a personal sequencing routine for multi-cut orders that reduces blade changes and idle time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Yield recovery technique — identifies unconventional trimming paths on oddly shaped primals to maximize usable product yield Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Station layout adaptation — reconfigures personal workstation arrangement to improve ergonomics and reduce motion waste during high-volume shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-species technique transfer — applies a trimming method developed on one protein type to a different species to achieve comparable yield results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process redesign contribution — proposes and tests a novel cut sequence or station workflow that measurably improves team yield or throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training method development — creates a visual or hands-on demonstration technique that accelerates skill acquisition for new cutters more effectively than verbal instruction alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction on knife technique or cut specifications from supervisors without defensiveness and applies the adjustment immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill curiosity — asks supervisors to demonstrate unfamiliar cuts or species breakdowns to expand personal capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Repetition commitment — practices challenging cuts such as bone-in or thin-margin trims repeatedly across shifts to build consistency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — resumes focused production pace after a rejected batch or equipment failure without prolonged disruption to workflow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-training pursuit — volunteers to rotate to unfamiliar stations such as poultry or fish trimming to develop versatility across protein types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance target ownership — sets personal yield and accuracy benchmarks above minimum facility standards and works systematically to reach them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous improvement modeling — openly shares skill advances and lessons learned with the broader team after mastering a new cut or technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Certification pursuit — seeks additional food safety, equipment operation, or HACCP training to expand professional qualifications beyond current role requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Hazard attention — maintains focused awareness of blade position and co-worker proximity throughout each cutting motion to prevent injury Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Fatigue monitoring — notices early signs of physical fatigue in grip or accuracy and adjusts posture or requests a brief break before errors occur Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Distraction management — maintains concentration on cut specifications and inspection criteria during loud, fast-paced production floor conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation — manages frustration during equipment malfunctions or order changes without displaying behaviors that disrupt the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional pacing — regulates cutting speed deliberately during high-volume rushes to preserve accuracy and prevent safety lapses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sensory quality detection — applies attentive observation of color, texture, and odor during inspection to catch defects that visual scanning alone would miss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team atmosphere awareness — reads shifts in crew stress or communication breakdowns during peak production and adjusts own demeanor to stabilize the work environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ergonomic self-regulation — monitors body mechanics throughout extended shifts and consciously corrects stance, grip, and motion patterns to prevent cumulative injury Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance — sustains consistent cutting performance across a full shift despite standing, cold temperatures, and repetitive motion demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Routine persistence — continues accurate trimming work during slow or monotonous production periods without loss of attention or care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Pressure tolerance — maintains cut quality and safety standards during sudden order surges without reverting to rushed or careless technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversity recovery — resumes normal production performance after a workplace incident review or safety correction without extended hesitation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Extended-shift resilience — sustains yield accuracy and defect-rejection discipline during mandatory overtime or multi-day high-volume production runs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty navigation — continues effective cutting work when order specifications change mid-shift or when product type deviates from the expected delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis steadiness — maintains safety protocols, quality standards, and calm decision-making during equipment failures or contamination events that disrupt the entire line Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term perseverance — sustains skill development and performance standards across physically demanding seasons without decline in yield quality or safety compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors39 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

Suggest an O*NET correction

Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Abalone Processor · Animal Eviscerator · Animal Skinner · Animal Sticker · Bacon Derinder · Bacon Skin Lifter · Bacon Skinner · Bacon Slicer · Beef Boner · Beef Breaker · Beef Skinner · Beef Trimmer
RAPIDS apprenticeships
—
O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingMonitoringJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
Production and ProcessingFood ProductionPublic Safety and SecurityMathematicsAdministration and ManagementMechanicalPersonnel and Human ResourcesTransportationEducation and Training
Abilities
Arm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionNear VisionOral ExpressionSelective AttentionManual DexterityTrunk StrengthOral ComprehensionProblem SensitivityInformation Ordering
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailCautiousnessStress ToleranceIntegritySelf-Control
Technology
Inventory management softwareSpreadsheet softwarePoint of sale POS softwareInternet browser software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Use knives, cleavers, meat saws, bandsaws, or other equipment to perform meat cutting and trimming.
  2. Weigh meats and tag containers for weight and contents.
  3. Inspect meat products for defects, bruises or blemishes and remove them along with any excess fat.
  4. Cut and trim meat to prepare for packing.
  5. Separate meats and byproducts into specified containers and seal containers.
CIP education codes
52.020547.060747.060847.060947.061548.0503

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.