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Distillery Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a National Historic Landmark spanning 450 acres in Frankfort, Kentucky ... Deliver impactful technical training to maintenance technicians, mechanics, and operators ...

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Distillery Operator information

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$12

$16

$23

How much do distillery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 is a distillery operator?

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 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 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,242 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Production - Buffalo Trace Distillery

Frankfort, KY • On-site

Buffalo Trace Distillery
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Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company/Location Overview
Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery's rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.
Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named "Brand Innovator of the Year" by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. The distillery is part of the Sazerac family of companies.
For more information, please visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com or www.sazerac.com.
Job Description/Responsibilities
At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we're always looking for skilled and motivated Production Team Members to join our team. Even if we don't have an immediate opening, we want to hear from you! This posting is part of our evergreen pipeline - a proactive way to connect with top talent for upcoming roles.
When a matching position opens, candidates from this talent pool will be the first to be reviewed and contacted.
Primary responsibilities include (however may not be limited to):
  • Assembling bottle components by hand: applying labels, inserting caps or corks, or placing bottles into cases
  • Material handling: loading bottles onto a production line, removing dunnage, or stacking cases onto a pallet
  • Operating bottling equipment through tooling adjustments, feeding components into magazines/hoppers, troubleshooting equipment errors, and monitoring production efficiencies
  • Inspecting bottle quality and repairing incorrect production
  • Maintaining a clean an organized work environment through routine sanitation efforts.

Physical requirements may include (however may not be limited to):
  • Frequent lifting up to 50 lbs
  • Pushing, pulling and/or climbing
  • Continuous standing and/or walking
  • Working in areas that are not temperature-controlled.

We are looking for dependable and motivated people to join the outstanding team that produces some of the highest quality products in the world. Opportunities for advancement are available.
Qualifications/Requirements
Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum education level of High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Proven stable, safe work history with excellent attendance record; minimum of one-year work experience
  • Must be able to work flexible shifts (1st, 2nd, 3rd), including weekend overtime

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