Top 10 Questions for Turkey Picker Interview

1. What are the key factors to consider when selecting turkeys for picking?

• Age: Turkeys that are between 16 and 20 weeks old are ideal for picking, as they have reached maturity but their skin is still tender.
• Weight: Turkeys should weigh between 16 and 20 pounds, as this size is large enough to provide a good yield of meat while still being manageable to pick.
• Health: Turkeys should be healthy and free of any diseases or injuries. They should have clear eyes, clean feathers, and no signs of respiratory distress.
• Temperament: Turkeys should be calm and docile, as this will make them easier to handle and pick.

2. Describe the different methods of turkey picking.

Manual picking

• Involves using a sharp knife to cut the skin around the turkey’s neck and then pulling the skin off by hand.
• This method is time-consuming and requires a great deal of skill, but it results in the highest quality of picked turkey.

Mechanical picking

• Uses a machine to remove the skin from the turkey.
• This method is much faster than manual picking, but it can result in some damage to the turkey’s skin.

Scalding

• Involves dipping the turkey in hot water to loosen the skin.
• This method is quick and easy, but it can result in the turkey’s skin becoming damaged or discolored.

3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each method?

Manual picking

• Advantages:
  • Results in the highest quality of picked turkey.
  • Allows for greater control over the picking process.
• Disadvantages:
  • Time-consuming and requires a great deal of skill.
  • Can be difficult to remove all of the feathers.

Mechanical picking

• Advantages:
  • Much faster than manual picking.
  • Easier to remove all of the feathers.
• Disadvantages:
  • Can result in some damage to the turkey’s skin.
  • Can be more expensive than manual picking.

Scalding

• Advantages:
  • Quick and easy.
  • Removes all of the feathers.
• Disadvantages:
  • Can result in the turkey’s skin becoming damaged or discolored.
  • Can make the turkey’s skin more difficult to remove.

4. How do you ensure that the turkeys are properly picked and cleaned?

• Inspect the turkeys before picking to ensure that they are healthy and free of any diseases or injuries.
• Use a sharp knife to cut the skin around the turkey’s neck and then pull the skin off by hand.
• Be careful not to damage the turkey’s skin or meat.
• Once the skin has been removed, rinse the turkey thoroughly with cold water.
• Inspect the turkey again to ensure that all of the feathers have been removed.

5. What are the safety precautions that you take when picking turkeys?

• Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from bacteria and feathers.
• Use a sharp knife and be careful not to cut yourself.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust and feathers.
• Dispose of the turkey feathers properly to avoid attracting pests.

6. How do you maintain the equipment that you use to pick turkeys?

• Clean the equipment after each use with soap and water.
• Sharpen the knives regularly.
• Inspect the equipment regularly for any damage or wear and tear.
• Replace any damaged or worn parts immediately.

7. What are the different grades of turkey?

• Grade A: The highest quality of turkey, with a plump breast and no defects.
• Grade B: A slightly lower quality of turkey, with a few minor defects.
• Grade C: The lowest quality of turkey, with several defects.

8. How do you determine the grade of a turkey?

• Inspect the turkey’s breast for plumpness and any defects.
• Check the turkey’s wings and legs for any broken bones or bruises.
• Examine the turkey’s skin for any tears or cuts.

9. What are the different ways to prepare a turkey?

• Roasting
• Baking
• Frying
• Smoking
• Grilling

10. What are the different types of stuffing that can be used in a turkey?

• Bread stuffing
• Cornbread stuffing
• Oyster stuffing
• Sausage stuffing
• Wild rice stuffing

Turkey Pickers hold the primary responsibility of processing turkeys for further processing or marketing. Their tasks involve ensuring that the turkeys meet the quality and safety standards of the poultry industry. Let’s dive into the specific job responsibilities of a Turkey Picker:

1. Preparation and Sanitation

Turkey Pickers commence their day by preparing their workstations. This includes ensuring the cleanliness of equipment and tools, such as knives, sharpening stones, and picking machines. They diligently adhere to sanitation protocols to maintain a hygienic work environment.

2. Evisceration and Inspection

The core responsibility of Turkey Pickers lies in eviscerating the turkeys. They meticulously remove the internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, liver, and intestines, with precision and care. During this process, they inspect the organs for any abnormalities or signs of disease, ensuring that only healthy turkeys are processed.

3. Plucking and Cleaning

After evisceration, Turkey Pickers move on to the crucial task of removing the feathers. Using specialized picking machines or manual techniques, they carefully pluck the feathers from the turkey’s body, leaving the skin intact. This step requires dexterity and attention to detail to avoid any damage to the delicate skin.

Once the turkeys are plucked, they undergo a thorough cleaning process. Turkey Pickers meticulously wash and rinse the birds to remove any remaining feathers, blood, or other contaminants. This ensures the highest level of hygiene and cleanliness.

4. Grading and Quality Control

Turkey Pickers are responsible for grading the processed turkeys based on predetermined quality standards. They assess factors such as the size, weight, and any visible defects or blemishes. This grading process ensures that only turkeys meeting the established criteria are approved for further processing or marketing.

5. Packaging and Shipping

After grading, Turkey Pickers prepare the processed turkeys for packaging and shipping. They carefully place the turkeys in appropriate containers or packaging materials, ensuring their proper protection during transportation. They also label the packages with accurate information, including the weight, grade, and any other relevant details.

Preparing for an interview for a Turkey Picker position requires careful consideration of both technical skills and personal attributes. Here are some valuable tips to help you ace your interview:

1. Research the Company and Position

Before the interview, take the time to research the company and the specific Turkey Picker position you are applying for. This will give you a solid understanding of their operations, culture, and the expectations of the role. Visit the company’s website, read industry news and articles, and connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn to gather insights.

2. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

During the interview, confidently articulate your skills and experience that align with the job responsibilities. Emphasize your proficiency in evisceration, plucking, grading, and quality control techniques. Share specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your attention to detail, precision, and adherence to sanitary practices.

3. Showcase Your Physical Abilities

Turkey Picking is a physically demanding job that requires sustained effort and dexterity. Be prepared to discuss your physical abilities and how they match the demands of the role. Highlight your stamina, coordination, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Emphasize your willingness to maintain a clean and organized workstation, as well as your ability to lift and handle heavy objects.

4. Demonstrate Your Hygiene Standards

Hygiene is paramount in the poultry industry. Emphasize your commitment to maintaining the highest levels of sanitation and cleanliness in your work. Share examples of your practices for preventing contamination and ensuring the safety of the products you handle. Highlight your understanding of food safety regulations and your adherence to established protocols.

5. Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and the company. Ask about their training programs, safety measures, and opportunities for career growth. Your questions should reflect your enthusiasm for the role and your desire to contribute to the team.