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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Individual must think independently in this position but work effectively in a team-based environment with a wide cross section of employees from entry level operators / crafts people up to senior ...

Adecco is actively seeking motivated candidates for the role of Machine Operator at Univance, a ... No prior experience necessary; entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. However, six months ...

Equipment Operator

Florence, KY · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Job Requisition #: 034812 Equipment Operator (Open) ROLE OVERVIEW ... Under direct supervision, performs entry-level routine activities associated with various types of ...

Job Requisition #: 034812 Equipment Operator (Open) ROLE OVERVIEW ... Under direct supervision, performs entry-level routine activities associated with various types of ...

Assembly Operator 3rd Shift

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Assembly Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON is a Michigan-based ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Assembly Operator 2nd Shift

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Assembly Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON is a Michigan-based ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$15

$18

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Kentucky is $15.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What is an entry level operator?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Employers often look for a willingness to learn, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols, so demonstrating these qualities can improve your chances of starting in an entry-level role.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Kentucky? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,551 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Night Shift (Entry Level)-Mount Vernon,Indiana

BWXT

Morganfield, KY

$70K - $103K/yr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. For more information, visit www.bwxt.com . Follow us on LinkedIn , X , Facebook and Instagram .
Manufacturing Engineer - Night Shift (Entry Level)
Welcome to BWXT
We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We required a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to be the primary engineering liaison within our manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will engage actively in the shop environment to resolve delays, stoppages, and engineering-related inquiries collaboratively. Building strong relationships with night shift stakeholders is essential to ensure seamless communication and coordination. This role will require partnering with the operations team to identify process weaknesses and implement improvements effectively.
Location:
On-site in Mt. Vernon, Indiana
Your Day to Day as a Manufacturing Engineer-Night Shift (Entry-Level)
  • Serve as the primary engineering point of contact/coordinator for manufacturing engineering, tooling engineering and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Maintain a regular presence in the shop to assist in resolving delays, stoppages, concerns, and questions through answering engineering related concerns.
  • Build strong working relationships with night shift stakeholders
  • Escalate any concerns as necessary to the appropriate stakeholders.
  • Serve as the liaison between program management, operations, quality, and lead manufacturing engineer for issues that arise during assigned shift.
  • Ensure responsible day-shift engineers are cognizant of issues that arise during nightshift through appropriate and timely means of communication given the level of the issue.
  • Serve as Engineering & Technical Services representative for any safety or quality response or investigation teams that occur during assigned shift.
  • Work with manufacturing engineers to standardize instruction across product lines
  • Maintain a thorough understanding of contract / drawing requirements for dispositioning quality notifications.
  • Perform special assignments as deemed necessary.

Required Qualifications:
  • BQ - Bachelor's Degree in Engineering; Mechanical, Nuclear or Manufacturing Engineering Technology; or Physics
  • Preferred Qualification "PQ" - Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Civil Engineering
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a DOE security clearance is required.
  • Ability to train on first shift for up to 6 months.
  • Demonstrated professional communication skills both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proficiency with MS Office
  • Familiarity with SAP preferred

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Work schedule will be 8 pm to 6:30 am or 4:00 pm to 2:30 am, Monday-Thursday (when training period is complete).
  • Paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
  • An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
  • The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $70,000 - $103,000
The base salary range for this position in Indiana (US-IN) at the start of employment is expected to be between $70,000 and $103,000 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,' unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.
As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities ("BWXT" or the "Company") complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding health and safety protocols. As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company health and safety requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.
All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Selected applicants are required to successfully complete a pre-employment check and drug screening. In addition, the position may require the ability to obtain and maintain applicable federal eligibility requirements for access to classified/sensitive information or matter which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test, previous employment, and reference verifications.
BWXT is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran or other protected status.
BWX Technologies, Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (BWXT) is not responsible for and does not accept any liability for fees or other costs associated with resumes or candidates presented by recruiters or employment agencies, unless a binding, written recruitment agreement between BWXT and the recruiter or agency exists prior to the presentation of candidates or resumes to BWXT and includes the specific services, job openings, and fees to be paid ("Agreement"). BWXT may consider any candidate for whom a recruiter or agency has submitted an unsolicited resume and explicitly reserves the right to hire such candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency unless an Agreement is in place prior to presentation and such Agreement explicitly encompasses the job opening for which such fees or costs are sought. An email, verbal or other informal contact with any person within BWXT will not create a binding agreement. Agencies or recruiters without an Agreement are directed not to contact any hiring managers of BWXT with recruiting inquiries or resumes. Recruiters and agencies interested in partnering with BWXT may contact BWXT's Talent Acquisition team at talent_acquisition@bwxt.com.
Job Segment: Manufacturing Engineer, Nuclear Engineering, Entry Level, Night, Operations, Engineering