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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Kentucky

Iff

$14 - $16.75/hr

Where You'll Make a Difference Operate and control manufacturing equipment to support production ... standard operating procedures and production schedules Maintain a clean and organized work ...

TransPak

Manufacturing Supervisor

Hebron, KY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... private, family owned and operated business since 1969. We are humbled by the long-term ... Position Summary The Manufacturing Supervisor supports TransPak's production operations by ...

transpak

Manufacturing Supervisor

Hebron, KY

$58K - $79K/yr

... private, family owned and operated business since 1969. We are humbled by the long-term ... Position Summary The Manufacturing Supervisor supports TransPak's production operations by ...

transpak

Manufacturing Supervisor

Hebron, KY

$58K - $79K/yr

... private, family owned and operated business since 1969. We are humbled by the long-term ... Position Summary The Manufacturing Supervisor supports TransPak's production operations by ...

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Manufacturing Production Operative information

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How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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 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 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 do you do as a manufacturing production operative?

A manufacturing production operative is responsible for assembling, inspecting, and packaging products on a factory or production line. They operate machinery, follow safety procedures, and ensure quality standards are met, often working in shifts and using basic tools or equipment. Attention to detail and adherence to health and safety regulations are essential in this role.

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 - Operations - Liberty, Kentucky

Tarter LLC

Liberty, KY

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Tarter rating

3.9

Company rating: 3.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Tarter is always accepting applications for the following Manufacturing - Production - Operations jobs on site:
  • Bander: Using a bander tool, strap all products in sub-bundles on carts, pallets and trailers without damage. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds routinely and climb up to 14 feet off the ground.
  • Hanger: Load and unload parts onto ecoat and powder lines. Identify defects on material while assembling products. Maintain adequate material for continued process. Must be able to individually lift overhead up to 25 pounds continuously and team lift overhead up to 40 pounds continuously during the shift.
  • Powder Coating (Paint): Using a powder coat wand, ensure full coverage of product as required. Perform color changes as needed. Must be able to identify hard-to-reach areas on product and ensure are properly coated.
  • Machine Operator: Operate machinery such as plasma, saw, drill press, uncoiler, bender, welder and seamer. Follow standard work to ensure proper positioning and alignment of raw material to meet production goals. Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on machinery, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime. Must be able to lift 40 pounds occasionally.
  • Assembly: Assemble products/parts using basic air powered/hand tools to build a finished product
  • Forklift Driver: Responsible for safely and efficiently moving, loading, and unloading materials within the warehouse. Perform forklift pre-shift inspections before every use, follow safety procedures, load and unload trucks, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. Work closely with supervisors/leads to ensure efficient workflow.
For all roles, employees are responsible for:
  • Maintaining tools & equipment in good working condition
  • Maintain clean, organized, tidy work area.
  • Properly store and care for tools & equipment and conduct preventative maintenance on assigned tools & equipment.
For Liberty, Kentucky location: Pay varies from $15-18 per hour, depending on assigned jobs and based on candidate skills & experience. Normal operating hours for the Liberty location are Monday - Thursday 6- 4:30 PM ET with the occasional Friday or weekend work. Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 2 years experience in a manufacturing - production - operations or similar role.
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and safety regulations.
  • Strong communication skills and a willingness to work effectively with others.
  • Knowledge of basic hand & power tools.
  • Commitment to following policies and procedures that ensure the safety of self & others and quality of product.
  • For Forklift Drivers: at least 2 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or higher in manufacturing, engineering, or related field preferred.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems such as Epicor, SAP or Oracle.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in a production environment.
  • Proficiency with production management software and Microsoft Office suite.
  • Certification in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.
Physical requirements:
  • Stand / walk for 8-10 consecutive hours with designated breaks.
  • Various lifting requirements as indicated.
  • Various climbing requirements as indicated.
  • Must be able to wear PPE designated for task(s). Steel/composite toed shoes and safety glasses throughout plant. Earplugs, Tyvex, gloves, welding apron and hard hats required in some areas and are provided by the company.
  • Work in non-climate-controlled environment.
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor temperature and weather.
Tarter offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401k, short- & long-term disability, tuition reimbursement, life insurance and more. About Tarter Since 1945, Tarter has been building more than gates and equipment-we've been building careers, communities, and a proud legacy of American manufacturing. As the largest manufacturer of farm gates and animal management equipment in North America, our products help farmers, ranchers, hobbyist, and property owners work smarter and safer every day. At Tarter, your ideas matter, your work is valued, and what you do makes a real impact for customers across the country. Whether you're on the shop floor, supporting customers, engineering solutions, or leading teams, you'll find a workplace grounded in integrity, innovation, and teamwork. We believe in doing things the right way-and taking pride in work well done. Join us and help shape the future of American manufacturing. This posting summarized critical duties required for various jobs. This is not an extensive list of responsibilities. Tarter reserves the right to modify jobs to align with business needs and legal requirements. Tarter is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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