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Associate Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Production Operators/Associates are required to perform continuous visual and manual quality checks in accordance with standardized guidelines. RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Perform duties of Associate Bottling Operator as needed. * Other duties as directed. Required Skills/Abilities: * Ability to learn to operate multiple pieces of bottling line equipment. * Good ...

Forklift Operator

Danville, KY · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

Forklift Operator Part Time M-F 8-12pm Working In The Warehouse Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which includes a MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plan that ...

Perform duties of Associate Bottling Operator as needed. * Other duties as directed. Required Skills/Abilities: * Ability to learn to operate multiple pieces of bottling line equipment. * Good ...

Sewing Operator

Edmonton, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

CRAFT Module Operator (Sewing Operator) Department: Sewing-Production Reports to: Production ... Associate Responsibilities • Perform daily manufacturing operations as required, to include: o ...

Forklift Operator

Berea, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Keeps forklift operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns ... Data Entry Skills Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which ...

Reach Truck Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

Warehouse Associate Keeps production supplied by retrieving materials and supplies; operating a Reach Truck. Ability to work mandatory OT and 10-hour days. Duties: * Plans supply and material ...

Operator

Paris, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Dry Department Operator performs manufacturing activities by following defined procedures and ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

New

Operator

Paris, KY

$14.50 - $19/hr

Dry Department Operator performs manufacturing activities by following defined procedures and ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

Forklift Operator

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 2nd Pay: 18.90 + 2.00 shift diff In addition to the general above, the ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

We're looking for a Warehouse Associate (Forklift Operator - 1st Shift) to join our team and play a critical role in our daily operations. This dynamic role requires you to safely operate a forklift ...

Forklift Operator

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 2nd Pay: 18.90 + 2.00 shift diff In addition to the general above, the ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$14

$15

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Kentucky is $14.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.01 and $15.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate operator?

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,251 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Production Associate - Direct Embroidery Operator

Cintas

Grayson, KY • On-site

$10.50 - $13.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Cintas rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 477 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 495 rated business services


Job description

Requisition Number: 233080 

Job Description

Cintas is seeking a Production Associate - Direct Embroidery Operator to work in our Distribution Center. Cintas' Distribution Division is a network composed of distribution centers across North America that warehouse, customize and distribute products. Responsibilities include preparing garments and operating embroidery machines to embroider names, initials or logos on garments.

Skills/Qualifications

Required

  • Basic language and communication skills in reading, speaking and understanding English
  • Ability to stand and/or walk for up to 7 hours a day

Benefits
Cintas offers comprehensive and competitive medical, dental and vision benefits, with premiums below the national average. We offer flexibility with four different medical plan options; one plan is offered at zero cost.


Additionally, our employee-partners enjoy:


    Competitive Pay 
    401(k) with Company Match/Profit Sharing/Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
    Disability, Life and AD&D Insurance, 100% Company Paid
    Paid Time Off and Holidays 
    Skills Development, Training and Career Advancement Opportunities

Company Information
Cintas Corporation helps more than one million businesses of all types and sizes get Ready to open their doors with confidence every day by providing products and services that help keep their customers' facilities and employees clean, safe, and looking their best. With offerings including uniforms, mats, mops, towels, restroom supplies, workplace water services, first aid and safety products, eye-wash stations, safety training, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and alarm service, Cintas helps customers get Ready for the Workday. Headquartered in the U.S., Cincinnati, OH, Cintas is a publicly held Fortune 500 company traded over the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol CTAS and is a component of both the Standard & Poor's 500 Index and Nasdaq-100 Index.
 

Cintas Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic or category protected by local, state, or federal law. 

This job posting will remain open for at least five (5) days.

Job Category: Production Hourly 
Organization: Global Supply Chain
Employee Status: Regular
Schedule: Full Time
Shift: 1st Shift
 


What Cintas employees say

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About Cintas

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Cintas is a publicly held company traded over the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol CTAS and is a component of both the Standard & Poor's 500 Index and Nasdaq-100 Index.

Industry

Manufacturing and fabric manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

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