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Food Processing Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Simplot Company

We are a true farm-to-table company with an integrated portfolio including food processing and food brands, phosphate mining, fertilizer manufacturing, farming, ranching and cattle production, and ...

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 ...

Country Pure Foods

$105K/yr

Work Experience * 5+ years leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, leading a multi-disciplined team of Maintenance Professionals Food Processing experience a plus. PERFORMANCE ...

Richardson International Limited

Richardson is recognized as a global leader in agriculture and food processing and has over 4,000 employees across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Europe. At Richardson, we are committed to enhancing ...

The J.M. Smucker Company

$76K - $99K/yr

Experience with food processing, packaging, or ingredient technologies. * Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capabilities. * Ability to lead projects and influence teams across multiple ...

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

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How much do food processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 is food processing?

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?

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 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 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 September 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.

Production Associate Lead

Cromwell, KY • On-site

Perdue Farms
See more jobs at Perdue Farmsexternal

$12.25 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Perdue Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
Step into a leadership role that helps drive production excellence. 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 will guide and support team members working with raw and cooked poultry products, helping ensure quality, efficiency, and a safe work environment. Current assignments may include leading operations within Tenders, Big Bird, and Shipping departments. This role is ideal for motivated associates who enjoy leading teams, maintaining high standards, and making a direct impact on production success.
Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:55am-5:25pm
Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Oversees work at various stations along the production lines processing poultry food products.
  • Adheres to all safety requirements including PPE, preventing and reporting unsafe acts and conditions, Lockout-Tagout procedures, and Process Safety Management related matters.
  • Ensures that the qualities of the products are being met according to the product specification of QA and USDA.
  • Ensures that all equipment throughout the departments are running smoothly.
  • Maintains a clean and safe working environment.

Minimum Education and Experience
  • High School diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Must have lead or supervisory experience in production environment preferred.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors
When in a plant environment:
  • Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
  • May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
  • May handle product 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
  • May be exposed to dust, feathers and all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing facility.
  • Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
  • Occasional exposure to carbon dioxide vapors 10ppm and chlorine less than 20 ppm.
  • Able to stand for several hours.
  • Work may include lifting (up to 50 lbs), reaching, bending, pushing boxes on conveyor assembly.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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