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Distillery Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

IJW Whiskey Company

Distillery Team Lead

Shelbyville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Train and support distillery operators, fostering skill development and helping resolve any issues that arise during production. * Safety & Compliance: Enforce adherence to all safety protocols, GMPs ...

ijwwhiskey

Distillery Team Lead

Shelbyville, KY

Train and support distillery operators, fostering skill development and helping resolve any issues that arise during production. * Safety & Compliance: Enforce adherence to all safety protocols, GMPs ...

Aerotek

Production Operator

Covington, KY · On-site

$25/hr

Job Title: Chemical Operator This role involves operating process equipment and following ... Work in the liquid department to perform distillation processes to achieve a final liquid state.

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Distillery Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$16

$23

How much do distillery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for distillery operator in Kentucky is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by distillery operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Distillery operators often face challenges such as maintaining equipment efficiency, adhering to strict safety protocols, and ensuring product quality throughout the distillation process. These can be managed by following preventive maintenance schedules, staying up-to-date with safety and quality procedures, and working closely with team members such as quality control technicians and maintenance staff. Strong attention to detail and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth operations in the distillery environment.

What are Distillery Operators?

Distillery Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the production of spirits such as whiskey, vodka, or gin in a distillery. They manage the distillation process, monitor equipment, ensure quality control, and maintain safety standards. Their duties often include measuring and mixing ingredients, operating machinery, recording production data, and conducting routine maintenance. Distillery Operators play a key role in ensuring that the final product meets required specifications and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Distillery Operator vs Bottling Line Worker?

AspectDistillery OperatorBottling Line Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentDistillery production floor, handling fermentation and distillation equipmentBottling line, packaging spirits into bottles
Industry UsageUsed in distilleries for alcohol productionUsed in bottling plants for packaging

Distillery Operators focus on the production process, including fermentation and distillation, while Bottling Line Workers handle packaging and bottling. Both roles require safety training and are essential in alcohol manufacturing, but they differ in daily tasks and equipment used.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distillery Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distillery Operator, you need a solid understanding of distillation processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or industry-specific certification. Familiarity with control systems, quality testing tools, and maintenance procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production in a regulated and fast-paced environment.
What are popular job titles related to Distillery Operator jobs in Kentucky? For Distillery Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distillery Operator jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Distillery Operator jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Distillery Operator jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Distillery Operator job openings:
Distillery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distillery Operator job openings in Kentucky as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,242 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Distillery Team Lead

IJW Whiskey Company

Shelbyville, KY • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic, fully integrated spirits company. Founded in 2017, we've compiled the largest independent library of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye and established a global presence including offices in Beverly Hills, Louisville and Tokyo, Japan, a 40-acre campus in Danville. Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for completion in early 2026, and a Japanese distillery in Chitose that that will be completed in late 2026.
With over 100 years of combined industry expertise, our diverse team of seasoned professionals and dynamic newcomers has propelled IJW to the forefront of the spirits industry. Our strategic partnership with one of the nation's largest independent Wine & Spirits distributors has enabled us to offer 22 products across four unique private label bourbon brands in 28 states. We have added to our spirits portfolio with our first Tequila and Mezcal brands.
Position Overview:
The Distillery Team Lead will assist in overseeing day-to-day distillery operations, supporting the Distillery Supervisor in managing production processes, and leading a team of operators. The Team Lead will help ensure consistent product quality, safe equipment operation, and a well-organized environment. This role requires hands-on leadership, task delegation, and contributing to process improvements.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Daily Operations: Oversee the execution of the daily production plan, ensuring efficient operations and high standards of safety, quality, and compliance.
  • Equipment Management: Operate and monitor distillery equipment, conducting routine checks, troubleshooting, and ensuring smooth operational flow.
  • Leadership & Planning: Assist in planning daily and weekly production activities, assigning tasks to distillery operators, and ensuring all tasks are completed on time and to standard.
  • Team Development: Train and support distillery operators, fostering skill development and helping resolve any issues that arise during production.
  • Safety & Compliance: Enforce adherence to all safety protocols, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and quality control standards. Maintain a clean, organized workspace.
  • Raw Material Management: Oversee raw material handling, inventory control, and accurate record-keeping of production data.
  • Process Improvement: Actively participate in identifying and implementing process improvements to increase operational efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with other departments to coordinate production and ensure seamless operations.
  • Flexibility: Perform other duties as assigned by distillery leadership, including nights, weekends and overtime work.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED required. 2 years of college or technical training preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in a manufacturing or distillery environment.
  • Experience leading a team.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, with attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Effective communication and team leadership abilities.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 75 lbs, and navigate the facility.
  • Comfortable working in non-climate-controlled environments.
  • Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities, climb stairs, and work at heights.

Benefits:
  • 401(k) with matching
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health savings and flexible savings account
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Life insurance

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