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Manufacturing Tech Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

CNC Intern

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Currently enrolled in or recently completed a vocational, technical, associate, or bachelor's degree program in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, CNC Machining, or a ...

CNC Intern

Nicholasville, KY

$15 - $19.75/hr

Currently enrolled in or recently completed a vocational, technical, associate, or bachelor's degree program in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, CNC Machining, or a ...

CNC Intern

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Currently enrolled in or recently completed a vocational, technical, associate, or bachelor's degree program in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, CNC Machining, or a ...

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Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$88K - $108K/yr

Stay current with trends and developments in manufacturing technologies and production methods, sharing insights with stakeholders What you'll need * * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Experience with fabrication, welding, CNC machining, robotics, automation, or similar manufacturing technologies. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office; AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, or similar CAD ...

Stay current with trends and developments in manufacturing technologies and production methods, sharing insights with stakeholders Whatyou'llbring * Bachelor's orMaster's degree in Manufacturing ...

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Manufacturing Tech information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$18

$34

How much do manufacturing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing tech in Kentucky is $18.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Tech, you need a solid understanding of mechanical processes, equipment operation, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with manufacturing software, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and maintaining productivity. These abilities ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and uphold safety and product quality standards.

How does a manufacturing tech typically interact with engineers and other departments during a production shift?

Manufacturing Techs work closely with engineers, quality assurance, and maintenance teams to ensure production runs smoothly. They often collaborate to troubleshoot equipment issues, implement process improvements, and maintain product quality standards. Effective communication is key, as Manufacturing Techs relay observations and data to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives. This teamwork helps maintain efficient operations and minimizes downtime on the production floor.

What does a manufacturing technician do?

A manufacturing technician operates and maintains machinery used in production processes, monitors quality control, and ensures safety standards are followed. They often work with tools, equipment, and may require certifications or training in specific manufacturing systems. Their role supports efficient and safe production in industrial settings.

What is a manufacturing tech?

Manufacturing Techs, or Manufacturing Technicians, are professionals who operate, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment used in the production of goods. They ensure machines run efficiently, perform quality checks, and may help with assembly or packaging tasks. Manufacturing Techs play a key role in keeping the production process smooth and addressing any technical issues that arise. Their work supports meeting production targets and maintaining safety and quality standards in manufacturing facilities.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Tech vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectManufacturing TechMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often required
Work EnvironmentFactory floors, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, industrial facilities, equipment maintenance areas
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assembly linesEquipment maintenance, repair, troubleshooting
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality control, process improvementMaintaining, repairing, troubleshooting machinery and equipment

Manufacturing Technicians focus on operating and optimizing manufacturing processes, while Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and often require similar certifications and work settings.

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Tech job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,738 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Tech

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Lebanon, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Hendrickson rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

319th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Position Purpose
The Machining Engineering Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining CNC machining equipment to produce precision components that meet engineering specifications and quality standards. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment while supporting productivity, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Essential Functions:
  • Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and other machining equipment.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and work instructions.
  • Load and verify CNC programs and make minor program edits as needed.
  • Select, install, and adjust cutting tools, fixtures, and work holding devices.
  • Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring instruments.
  • Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot machining issues, tooling problems, and machine malfunctions.
  • Perform preventive maintenance and routine machine cleaning.
  • Document production results, inspections, and machine downtime accurately.
  • Maintain compliance with safety regulations, quality standards, and company procedures.
  • Work closely with engineers, programmers, quality personnel, and production teams to improve processes and reduce waste.
  • Support continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and 5S initiatives.
  • Stock/Resupply tooling in vending cabinets for production.
  • Perform tool testing for better performance and cost reductions.
  • Diagnosing issues with production operations in machining area(tooling/fixturing).
  • Communicate with tooling reps about current tool usage.
  • Perform basic CNC programming.
  • Build/Repair tools for production.
  • Gather used tooling to send out for repairs, recycling, regrinding.

Education and Training
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 2+ years of CNC machining experience required.
  • Two-year associate's degree in Machining or Technical certification in machining, manufacturing technology, or a related field required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Experience using precision measuring equipment, including:
  • Experience using Calipers, Micrometers, Dial indicators, Height gauges, Bore gauges
  • Basic understanding of G-code and CNC programming concepts.
  • Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Basic computer skills and experience with manufacturing software systems.

Preferred Qualification
  • Experience with Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Siemens, or similar CNC controls.
  • Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
  • Forklift and overhead crane experience.
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to:
  • to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • to lift up to 50 pounds periodically.
  • Use manual dexterity to handle tools, components, and measuring instruments.
  • wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Utilize close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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