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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Kentucky

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Manufacturing Production Operative information

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$8

$19

$40

How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing production operative in Kentucky is $19.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.24 and $21.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing production operative?

A Manufacturing Production Operative is a worker responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring production processes run smoothly in a factory or manufacturing environment. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, following safety procedures, and maintaining quality standards. These operatives play a crucial role in keeping production lines efficient and meeting output targets. No formal qualifications are usually required, but attention to detail and the ability to work well in a team are important. Training is often provided on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing production operative?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Production Operative, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with forklift or OSHA certifications. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production processes, ensuring workplace safety, and delivering consistent product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing production operatives, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Production Operatives often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality during fast-paced production runs and adapting to new machinery or processes. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and communicating effectively with team members can help manage these challenges. Regular training sessions and a supportive team environment also play a key role in ensuring operatives can quickly adapt to changes and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Production Operative vs Manufacturing Assembly Worker?

AspectManufacturing Production OperativeManufacturing Assembly Worker
CredentialsBasic training, health & safety certificationsBasic training, health & safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFactory floor, production linesFactory floor, assembly lines
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plantsCommonly used in manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality checksAssembling components, following instructions

Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often overlapping in work environment and required skills. The Manufacturing Production Operative typically involves operating machinery and quality control, while the Manufacturing Assembly Worker focuses on assembling parts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role suited to their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Kentucky?

For Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Manufacturing Production Operative job openings:

Manufacturing Production Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Production Operative job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,758 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Production Associate

Katayama American Company Llc

Shelbyville, KY • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job description


Production Associate

Essential Functions

  • Perform process control checks, start-up checks, and operator maintenance checks.
  • Utilize factory supplies as required; perform material identification, and use materials per VPI.
  • Perform process job and machine adjustments per VPI.
  • Participate in all training programs provided.
  • Comply with all safety requirements.
  • Post daily production output, review weekly process chart, and maintain scrap and efficiency charts.
  • Execute die changes per schedule.
  • Notify teamleader or Supervisor in event of problem.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned

Environment

This position is in a factory environment with moving equipment and varing temperatures.

This position requires standing 100% of the time, and attention to detail. Success of this line depends on teamwork and cooperation of 4 – 6 employees in a “piece-by-piece” operation.

This position would operate various equipment such as: press, rotary bender, cutting saws, robot welder, sanders, spot weld, automotive oiler, and drill presses.

Work Remotely

  • No

Salary: $19.75 per hour with $1.50 shift diff on 2nd shift.

Benefits:


  • 401(k) with 3% match
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


Schedule:


  • 8 hour shift



Experience:


  • Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)


Education:


  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)


Work Location: In person



2nd Shift