Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Kentucky

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.

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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