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Food Processing Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

The Marzetti Company

Process Engineer

Horse Cave, KY · On-site

CPG, nutritional, or food processing experience, and bakery experience is preferred. * Experience with continuous improvement, Lean, or Six Sigma - Green belt or Black belt is preferred. Technical ...

Perdue Farms

Production Associate Lead

Cromwell, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

As a Production Associate Lead, you will oversee daily operations across assigned production lines and processing areas while supporting sanitation standards and safe food handling practices. You ...

Perdue Farms

Production Associate Lead

Cromwell, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

As a Production Associate Lead, you will oversee daily operations across assigned production lines and processing areas while supporting sanitation standards and safe food handling practices. You ...

SCHWAN'S

Principal Project Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site +1

$107K - $178K/yr

You draw on experience and relationships with OEM's to leverage best-in-class across process & food flavor packaging systems. Please note we are NOT at this time considering those requiring ...

Schwans

Principal Project Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$107K - $178K/yr

You draw on experience and relationships with OEM's to leverage best-in-class across process & food flavor packaging systems. Please note we are NOT at this time considering those requiring ...

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All JobsFood Processing JobsFood Processing Jobs in Kentucky

Food Processing information

See Kentucky salary details

$4

$13

$16

How much do food processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for food processing in Kentucky is $13.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $13.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by food processing workers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Food processing workers often face challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, working in environments with temperature controls, and managing repetitive tasks. Adhering to safety protocols and wearing appropriate protective equipment can help minimize risks. Employers typically provide comprehensive training to ensure workers are comfortable with sanitation procedures and machinery operation. Team collaboration and clear communication are also crucial for managing workloads and ensuring efficiency.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In food processing, high-paying roles such as plant managers or operations supervisors can earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with experience and industry knowledge. These positions often require strong leadership skills, technical understanding, and sometimes certifications, but they do not always require a college degree.

What are the 7 types of food processing?

Food processing involves various methods to transform raw ingredients into consumable products. The seven main types include cleaning and sorting, size reduction, thermal processing (such as pasteurization and canning), preservation (like freezing and drying), fermentation, packaging, and quality control. Food processing workers often operate specialized equipment and follow safety standards to ensure product quality and safety.

What food job makes the most money?

In food processing, high-paying roles include food scientists, quality assurance managers, and plant managers, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 annually. These positions typically require specialized skills, experience, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. Management roles overseeing large production facilities tend to earn the highest salaries in the industry.

What are food processing jobs?

Food processing jobs involve the preparation, packaging, and preservation of food products for consumer use. Workers in this field may operate machinery, inspect ingredients, maintain hygiene standards, and ensure that food products meet safety and quality regulations. Positions can range from machine operators and quality control technicians to supervisors and production managers. Food processing is a crucial part of the food supply chain, making sure that products are safe, consistent, and ready for distribution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Food Processing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Processing, you typically need strong attention to detail, knowledge of food safety standards, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with processing machinery, HACCP certification, and basic computer systems for inventory and quality tracking are often required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in fast-paced production environments. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and consistent production of quality food products while maintaining regulatory compliance.

What do food processing workers do?

Food processing workers operate machinery and equipment to prepare, package, and inspect food products in manufacturing facilities. They follow safety and quality standards, often working in shifts, and may need to handle repetitive tasks and maintain cleanliness in the work environment.

What is the difference between Food Processing vs Food Packaging?

AspectFood ProcessingFood Packaging
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in food safety (e.g., HACCP)High school diploma or equivalent; certifications in food safety and packaging standards
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, processing plantsPackaging lines, manufacturing facilities, warehouses
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, processing plantsFood companies, packaging firms, distribution centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Food Processing involves transforming raw ingredients into finished food products through various techniques, while Food Packaging focuses on enclosing and protecting food items for distribution and sale. Both roles are essential in the food industry, often working closely but with distinct responsibilities.

Food Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Processing job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,010 per year, or $13.5 per hour.
Human Resources & Safety Manager

Human Resources & Safety Manager

Downs Food Group

Greenville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a dynamic role where you can make a direct impact on the Company and with Team Members?  We have a Human Resources Manager opening for you.  Be part of the leadership team and lead the HR function at a 90 employee food processing facility.  You will be responsible for leading the HR team.  Responsibilities include recruiting, onboarding, safety, workers compensation, labor relations and employee relations.