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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Kentucky

Inventory Clerk

Louisville, KY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Robert Half is partnering with a well-established Louisville-based manufacturing company to ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred.

... Manufacturing Systems Optimization: * Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and workflow ... Associate's degree in industrial engineering, construction, technology, or a related field * OR ...

MRC Global serves the oil and gas industry across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors as ... Technical/Trade School, associate degree, bachelor's degree, preferably with studies in industrial ...

During on-the-job learning (OJL) you will work with complex high-performance manufacturing systems ... You must have the ability to work collaboratively and coordinate your activities with upstream and ...

During on-the-job learning (OJL) you will work with complex high-performance manufacturing systems ... You must have the ability to work collaboratively and coordinate your activities with upstream and ...

Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$18

$29

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in Kentucky is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Upstream Manufacturing Associates, and how can they be successfully managed?

Upstream Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterility in bioprocessing environments, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adapting to rapidly changing production schedules. Successfully managing these challenges requires strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), strong attention to detail, and effective communication with cross-functional teams like quality assurance and process engineering. Proactively seeking feedback, participating in ongoing training, and staying organized can help associates stay ahead of potential issues and contribute positively to team goals.

What is the difference between Upstream Manufacturing Associate vs Downstream Manufacturing Associate?

AspectUpstream Manufacturing AssociateDownstream Manufacturing Associate
Primary ResponsibilitiesBioreactor operation, cell culture, media preparationPurification, filtration, packaging of products
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, laboratory, manufacturing floorCleanroom, laboratory, manufacturing floor
Required SkillsBioprocessing, sterile techniques, equipment handlingFiltration, chromatography, aseptic processing
CertificationsGMP training, sterile technique certificationGMP training, sterile technique certification

Both roles are essential in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, with upstream associates focusing on the early stages of production like cell culture, and downstream associates handling product purification and finishing. They often work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, but their specific tasks differ within the manufacturing process.

What are Upstream Manufacturing Associates?

Upstream Manufacturing Associates are professionals who work in the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, primarily focusing on cell culture and fermentation processes. They are responsible for preparing and maintaining bioreactors, monitoring cell growth, and ensuring optimal conditions for producing biological products such as proteins or vaccines. Their role is crucial in setting the foundation for downstream purification and final product manufacturing. Upstream Manufacturing Associates often work in cleanroom environments and follow strict safety and quality protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Upstream Manufacturing Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Upstream Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid background in biology or biochemistry, familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and typically a bachelor's degree in a scientific field. Experience with bioreactor operation, aseptic techniques, and process control systems such as DeltaV is often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the consistent production of high-quality biological products and compliance with industry regulations in a fast-paced environment.
What are popular job titles related to Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Kentucky? For Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,643 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Inventory Clerk

Inventory Clerk

Robert Half

Louisville, KY • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Robert Half is partnering with a well-established Louisville-based manufacturing company to identify a Digital Print Operations Manager to lead a growing digital print operation and help drive a major technology investment.


About the Opportunity

This organization operates a large-scale manufacturing facility with approximately 175–200 employees across multiple shifts. Due to continued growth and a significant investment in digital printing technology, the company has created a dedicated leadership role focused exclusively on digital print operations.

This position is approximately 75% leadership and operational management and 25% technical digital print expertise. The company is preparing to implement new digital print equipment, making this a high-impact role with strong visibility and influence.


Position

Digital Print Operations Manager


Salary: $90,000-$110,000 + Bonus

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and develop a team of tenured employees in the digital printing department.
  • Provide day-to-day operational leadership, coaching, accountability, and conflict resolution.
  • Lead the implementation in new digital printing equipment.
  • Drive process improvements and production workflow efficiencies.
  • Collaborate closely with corporate and sales teams.
  • Troubleshoot cross-functional issues to keep production running smoothly.
  • Support a multi-shift manufacturing environment, including occasional evening availability as needed.
  • Help evaluate and improve upstream production processes.

Benefits

  • Paid vacation
  • PTO days
  • Medical, dental, vision, and FSA
  • 401(k) with company match
  • 11 paid holidays


What We're Looking For

  • Strong digital printing experience in a production environment.
  • Experience with color management, print techniques, and digital print production.
  • Proven leadership experience with the ability to build credibility with a tenured team.
  • Strong process improvement and operational management skills.
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred.




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About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948