Jobs › Smithfield Foods

Utility Butcher

Smithfield Foods · Monmouth, IL · Full time

Posted Oct 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

As a utility butcher you'll cover many different jobs. Which jobs in your current area can you already do, and which would you need to learn?

What they are checking: Whether they have honest, broad knowledge of the line, since a utility worker fills in wherever needed.

Tell me about a time you solved a problem on the line before it got bigger.

What they are checking: Whether they show the problem solving ability that the posting lists as a qualification.

The posting asks for strong attendance. What has your attendance been like, and how do you keep it that way?

What they are checking: Whether they are dependable, since a utility worker exists to cover gaps, not create them.

Where do you see yourself growing at Smithfield after this role?

What they are checking: Whether they see this job as a step toward growth, which the posting encourages.

What would you do

You're moved to a station you haven't worked in months. What do you do first?

What they are checking: Whether they would ask questions and check safety steps instead of guessing on an unfamiliar job.

How do you communicate with coworkers who speak a different language than you?

What they are checking: Whether they can work well with a diverse crew, which the posting says is a plus.

A coworker you're filling in for left their station messy and behind. How do you handle it?

What they are checking: Whether they stay positive and focused on the work instead of creating conflict.

About the work

What product requirements do you watch for in your current area, and how do you know when something is off spec?

What they are checking: Whether they know the quality standards of the product well, which the posting asks for directly.

How do you keep your knife sharp and your cuts safe when switching between different jobs?

What they are checking: Whether they keep good knife skills and safety habits across different cutting tasks.

What have you done with Excel or other computer programs, and how might that help in this role?

What they are checking: Whether they have the basic computer skills the posting mentions for tracking or records.

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The full job description

As published by Smithfield Foods.

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub. Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now! Qualifications • Employed with Smithfield a minimum of one (1) year • Shows knowledge of product requirements in their current area • Good communication skills in English, both verbal and written, to communicate with all employees including administrative staff, ability to communicate in a 2nd language other than English is a plus • Able to work with co-workers proactively and in a team environment • Shows problem solving abilities • Some knowledge of Excel or other computer programs • Minimum of high school diploma, equivalency or in process of getting it • Continuing education beyond high school diploma/equivalency is strongly encouraged • No more than 3 attendance points for absenteeism within a 9-month period; Acquiring more than 3 attendance points as a Utility Butcher will cause disqualification from the position • No current discipline warnings for safety, food safety, job performance or failure to follow instructions; While in Utility Butcher position, discipline for any of the above may cause disqualification from the position Responsibilities • Know all or at least key jobs for Animal Foods Department. • Fill in on production line for absenteeism. • Fill in on production line for individuals who need to be let off the line. • Help supervisor answer government lights. • Help with supervisory responsibilities in the absence of the supervisor. • Additional responsibilities will be required and explained upon job offer. Expectations • Individual growth expectations will be monitored by the department supervisor; Failure to meet expectations will disqualify the individual from the position and he/she will be required to pick an open job within the plant • As a training tool, the Utility Butcher is strongly advised to apply for open Supervisor positions posted • If a Supervisor position is offered to a Utility Butcher as a promotional opportunity and is declined, management will have the right to review whether or not Utility Butcher can maintain their position or be placed back into another position • All decisions must be agreed upon by the department Supervisor, Group Supervisor, and Operations Manager • The employee chosen for the Utility Butcher position will be expected to remain in that position for a duration of at least one year EEO/AA Employer/Veterans/Disabled – Smithfield Foods is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, region, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability. 





 EEO Information Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

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