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Associate Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator Shift: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday - Friday. Overtime required based on business ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

$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 Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM, Sun, Wedns, Thurs & Mon, Tues, Thurs Fri, Sat ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM, Sun, Wedns, Thurs & Mon, Tues, Thurs Fri, Sat ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM, Sun, Wedns, Thurs & Mon, Tues, Thurs Fri, Sat ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator Shift: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday - Friday. Overtime required based on business ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Operator, Assembly - Shift 2

Mount Sterling, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

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

Forklift Operator 2nd

Midway, KY · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

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

Forklift Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.90/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 2nd Monday - Friday 4p-12a Pay: $18.90 + 2.00 Shift Differential ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.90/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 2nd Monday - Friday 4p-12a Pay: $18.90 + 2.00 Shift Differential ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Forklift Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.90/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 2nd Monday - Friday 4p-12a Pay: $18.90 + 2.00 Shift Differential ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Utility Operator 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation Shift: 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation ... Regular performance of safety audits for all areas of control * Assist with ensuring all associates ...

Production Operator

Morganfield, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Proactively notifies lead operators, production supervision, equipment maintenance, quality and ... Employment opportunities are available to all applicants and associates without regard to race ...

Forklift Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$20.35/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd 11:00pm - 7:00am Sunday - Thursday Pay: $20.35hr. + $2.00 Shift ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Forklift Operator

DPDHL

Bowling Green, KY

$19.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

DHL Supply Chain is Hiring! At DHL, you will play a part in one of the world's most essential industries. There has never been a better time to join DHL Supply Chain. In a global business like ours, the opportunities are endless. So, join us. Work with us. Grow with us.
The core responsibilities of this role include: a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling and loading/unloading duties.
Position: Forklift Operator
Shift: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday - Friday. Overtime required based on business needs.
Pay: $19.60 per hour
Additional Incentives: 1.50$ Shift Premium
In addition to the general job description below, the ideal candidate will also possess the following skills and/or experience:
Production, Manufacturing, Warehouse, General Labor, Forklift, Quality Control, Material Handler, Loader / Unloader, Equipment Operator, Reach truck, Dock Stocker.
-A minimum of 6 months' experience operating stand-up material handling equipment is required. This position requires safe and efficient operation of a stand-up Dock Stocker and Reach Truck, and first preference will be given to applicants with this experience. Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet
-A minimum of 6 month's experience using a commercial WMS (warehouse management system) such as Blue Yonder, Red Prairie, JDA, SAP is highly preferred.
Be part of the world's largest logistics company! DHL Supply Chain has been certified as a Great Place to Work in the US and Canada! Our excellent benefits packages includes:
- Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage available beginning on your 30th day
- PTO program for all associates, including paid holidays and vacation
- 401(k) with generous company match
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Excellent training and career advancement opportunities
Grow your skills. Shape your world.

Role Purpose:

What will you do in this role? Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our warehouse environment. You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such as stand-up, sit-down, or clamp forklifts and electric pallet jacks.Our environment is team oriented, fast paced and safety focused. We move products that people need and want. At DHL, YOU will be an essential part of everyday life.

Key Accountabilities:

  • Load, unload, move, stock, and stage products and materials using various types of forklifts or other power equipment 80% of specified shift.
  • Pull and prepare product for shipment ensuring the exact number and types of product is loaded.
  • Keep appropriate records and reports for inventory accuracy.
  • Comply with all OSHA and MSDS standards.
  • Verify load accuracy; check the load count, stability, and product damage, report variances as necessary.
  • Change equipment battery or LP tank and monitor power source as necessary.
  • Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion.
  • Assist in physical inventories.
  • Complete daily inspection of equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Forklift operator certificate or satisfactory completion of a forklift-training program within the first 30 days of employment
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent, preferred
  • Six months warehouse experience, preferred
  • Six months forklift operation experience

Our Organization is an equal opportunity employer.

#LI-DNI

#LI-Onsite

Employment Type: FULL_TIME