Seafood processors work in factories and processing plants, usually in coastal areas around the Perth metropolitan and Mid West/Gascoyne regions. Their work environments are usually cool and wet, to minimise the risk of seafood spoiling. They spend long periods on their feet and may be required to lift heavy crates of seafood. Hygiene is an important aspect in any occupation working with food. Seafood processors are usually required to sterilise their hands and clothing upon entering the processing area, and will be required to wear protective clothing. Evening and early morning shift work is usually required to prepare seafood in time to be shipped to stores before they open.

The seafood industry in general is highly seasonal, with many types of seafood only permitted to be caught during certain months, which may have an impact on the availability of work at certain times of the year.

Seafood processors use sharp knives to fillet and prepare fish and open shellfish. They will have to regularly sharpen knives to maintain their effectiveness and safety. In some cases, cleaning and preparation of seafood may be done by machine, which seafood processors will be responsible for operating and maintaining. After the seafood has been processed, these workers will need to package it using boxes, cartons, plastic wrapping and specialised packaging machines. Seafood processors will have to wear protective and hygienic clothing, including gloves, aprons, gumboots, earmuffs and hairnets. They will also often be required to use hoses and scrubbing brushes to keep work areas clean.