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Material Handling Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Lantech

Material Handling Team Leader

Louisville, KY · On-site

$21.50/hr

Material Handling Team Leader 1st Shift | Mon-Thu, 6:00 AM-4:30 PM Starting at $21.50/hr Ready to lead, grow, and make an impact? Join Lantech as a Material Handling Team Leader in our climate ...

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CLARK Material Handling Company

Material Handler

Lexington, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

CLARK Material Handling Company, is a 100 year old company, and a global leader in the material handling and forklift industry. CLARK is seeking qualified candidates to join our team. The Material ...

Material Handling Systems

Material Handler

Louisville, KY · On-site

$19/hr

... material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn't just a job but a movement - a collective ...

Material Handling Systems

Material Handler

Louisville, KY · On-site

$19/hr

... material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn't just a job but a movement - a collective ...

CLARK Material

Material Handler

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

CLARK Material Handling Company, is a 100 year old company, and a global leader in the material handling and forklift industry. CLARK is seeking qualified candidates to join our team. The Material ...

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How much do material handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handling in Kentucky is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a material handling role, and how can I prepare for them?

Material Handling professionals often face challenges such as managing heavy loads efficiently, working in fast-paced environments, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To prepare, it's important to develop physical stamina, learn proper lifting techniques, and become familiar with the operation of equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks. Additionally, practicing good communication skills is essential, as you'll frequently coordinate with warehouse staff and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and prevent errors or accidents.

Are jobs in material handling in demand?

While the positions are becoming more automated, the operators of material handling systems are becoming more vital to the efficient management of inventory and order fulfillment. The two main types of jobs are manual handling, which is becoming less common, and automated handling, which includes the use of various machines to protect workers and make supply systems flow more smoothly. Increased automation results in a lowering of demand for labor, meaning that material handling should not be considered a long-term career.

Is a material handling an entry level job?

Material handling jobs are often entry-level positions that require minimal prior experience. They typically involve tasks such as loading, unloading, and moving goods, and may require physical stamina and basic safety training. Many employers offer on-the-job training for new workers.

Is material handling a good career?

Material handling involves managing the movement, storage, and control of materials within warehouses, factories, or distribution centers. It often requires physical stamina, knowledge of equipment like forklifts, and safety certifications. The field offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement and specialization in logistics and supply chain management.

What is the difference between Material Handling vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectMaterial HandlingWarehouse Associate
Primary RoleMoving, storing, and managing materials and products within a facilityReceiving, stocking, and preparing items for shipment or storage
Required CertificationsForklift certification often requiredBasic OSHA training, sometimes forklift certification
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, distribution centersWarehouses, distribution centers, retail storage areas
Common TasksOperating forklifts, loading/unloading, inventory managementPicking, packing, stocking, inventory checks

Material Handling and Warehouse Associate roles often overlap in warehouse environments, but Material Handling focuses more on moving and managing materials, often involving equipment operation, while Warehouse Associates handle stocking, packing, and order fulfillment. Both roles require safety training and are essential in supply chain operations.

What is material handling?

Material handling refers to the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. It involves a variety of equipment and systems, such as conveyors, forklifts, storage racks, and automated systems, to ensure materials are efficiently transported and stored. Effective material handling is crucial for improving workflow, reducing costs, and maintaining workplace safety.

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

To thrive as a Material Handler, you need basic math skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure efficient inventory movement, workplace safety, and smooth operations in fast-paced environments.
More about Material Handling jobs
What are popular job titles related to Material Handling jobs in Kentucky? For Material Handling jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Handling jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Material Handling jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Material Handling jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Material Handling job openings:
Material Handling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Handling job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,905 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Material Handling Coordinator

Universal Logistics Holdings

Louisville, KY • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Universal Logistics Holdings rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

322nd of 362 rated logistics

Job description

Are you looking to join a dynamic team that provides its people with the tools to be successfull and opportunities to grow?
Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains.
Universal has immediate career opportunities in your area. Apply today to become part of the Universal team!
WESTPORT AXLE CO, a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. is a leading transportation and third-party logistics provider (3PL) that offers a broad scope of services throughout the entire supply chain. Westport's experienced management team, with its state-of-the-art technology, provides customized logistics solutions to its customers resulting in proven efficiencies and savings.
This operation supports a full range of our value added services. We manage and operate a warehouse facility which encompasses: Picking, Packing, Storage, and Shipping of automotive parts and equipment. This operation ships to various dealers, warehouses, and distribution facilities - as well as direct to the assembly line in a Just-in-Time (JIT) capacity.
Responsibilities will include but not be limited to:

  • Inventory control and cycle counts
  • Managing materials and maintaining records
  • Prepare reports on inventory levels, usage and trends
  • Quality and safety compliance; involving company policies and procedures
  • Interacting with the customer on a daily basis, and ensuring customer satisfaction
  • Other tasks delegated by the management
The ideal candidate should possess the following:
  • Experience in a warehousing, distribution or transportation environment
  • Bachelor's or Associate's degree preferred
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Strong computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Problem solving and analytical skills, as well as a strong attention to detail
  • Strong work ethic, ability to multitask
  • A competitive and career oriented mindset

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