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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Kentucky

Combining nearly a century of manufacturing expertise with an innovative and knowledgeable team of ... We are looking for a Production Operator to join our Operations team. This position performs a ...

Production Operator

Lawrenceburg, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Supervisor, Manufacturing (Assembly) SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the department supervisor, the Production Operator/Associate is assigned to standardized work of routine nature involving ...

Production Operator

Franklin, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Headquartered in Franklin, Kentucky, TAP manufactures anti-vibration and noise reduction parts ... Must be able to perform various machine operating tasks: machine setup, loading machine, unloading ...

Supervisor, Manufacturing (Assembly) SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the department supervisor, the Production Operator/Associate is assigned to standardized work of routine nature involving ...

Production Operator

Paris, KY · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Production Operator This role works within the Production Department as a Material Handler, Fork ... Experience working in a production or manufacturing environment. * Ability to perform general labor ...

Production Operator Packaging

Auburn, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Manufacturing, innovation, and happy pets too. We are excited to announce that we are looking for a Packaging Production Operator - 2nd shift to join our rapidly growing company. With thirty years of ...

Production Operator Packaging

Auburn, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Manufacturing, innovation, and happy pets too. We are excited to announce that we are looking for a Packaging Production Operator - 3rd Shift to join our rapidly growing company. With thirty years of ...

Production Operator Packaging

Auburn, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Manufacturing, innovation, and happy pets too. We are excited to announce that we are looking for a Packaging Production Operator - 1st shift to join our rapidly growing company. With thirty years of ...

Be Seen First

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, the Production Operator is responsible for overseeing and ... S. diploma or equivalent  Experience in production/manufacturing environment  2-2-3 work ...

Production Operator

Franklin, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Operates various manufacturing equipment * Detects and reports defective materials or questionable ... Must be able to perform various machine operating tasks: machine setup, loading machine, unloading ...

Showing results 21-40

Manufacturing Production Operative information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

$19

$40

How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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:
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.

$11 - $13.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Stave Mill Production Operator
Supervisor
Production Supervisor
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Appointment
Full-time
Location
Manchester, Kentucky
Job Summary
The Stave Mill Production Operator is an integral part of the Speyside manufacturing team and will perform a variety of tasks needed to produce high quality white oak staves which are used in the manufacturing of bourbon barrels at our Speyside Bourbon Cooperage facilities.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Stack and sort staves.
  • Run a variety of saws used during different phases of stave production.
  • Keep work areas clean, orderly, and free of hazards.
  • Follow and abide by all company safety and quality requirements.

Qualifications
Education & Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Entry level position. No previous experience required.
  • 1-2 years manufacturing experience is a plus; wood working experience is desirable.

Skills and Requirements:
  • Must be able to work in fast paced and repetitive environment consistently and safely to keep up with the flow of production.
  • Ability to follow and execute both written and oral instructions.
  • Demonstrate thoroughness and attention to detail with a strong sense of urgency.
  • Must be dependable and have an excellent attendance record.
  • Team player mentality is essential.

Working Conditions
This position is primarily located in a Stave Mill. The Stave Mill has season dependent temperature fluctuations and loud noise from operating equipment. Most of the time will be spent working around wood cutting saws that produce sawdust. There is uneven and rough terrain in some outdoor areas where operating equipment is functioning. This position will be required to work weekends when production needs arise.
Physical Requirements
This position requires standing for long periods of time and being able to work in a variety of physical positions, including but not limited to, bending at the waist, stooping, pulling, pushing, grasping, and reaching. Good hand-eye coordination is absolutely necessary. This position must be able to maneuver a minimum of 100 pounds and lift a minimum of 30 pounds.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.
Other Duties and Requirements
The duties, responsibilities, and requirements listed above should not be interpreted as a comprehensive list. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as deemed appropriate. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is possible that requirements may be modified to reasonably accommodate disabled individuals. However, no accommodations will be made that may pose serious health or safety risks to any individual associated with Speyside Bourbon Cooperage Inc. Additionally, no accommodations will be made which impose undue hardships on Speyside Bourbon Cooperage, Inc.
EEO Statement
Speyside Bourbon Cooperage, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Speyside Bourbon Cooperage, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is based on qualifications, merit, and business need. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform substance abuse testing and background verification checks as permitted by state law.