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Bale Breaker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bale Breaker Operator, Fiber Prep Operator Key Responsibilities * Load raw fiber onto or into conveyors to ensure uninterrupted production. * Notify the Shift Supervisor of any excess dust leakage or ...

Bale Breaker Operator, Fiber Prep Operator Key Responsibilities * Load raw fiber onto or into conveyors to ensure uninterrupted production. * Notify the Shift Supervisor of any excess dust leakage or ...

Pick Line Operator

Reidsville, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Maintain a clean work area, ensuring any reusable plastic on the ground is redistributed through bale breaker * Other duties as assigned by management. * Reasonable mandatory overtime may be required ...

Be Seen First

Bale plastic stretch film * Restock napkins and utensils in three break rooms * Organize and put away facility supplies Weekly Responsibilities: * Clean and sanitize all ice and water dispensers ...

Recycle Operator

Bourbonnais, IL

$13 - $16.50/hr

Collect the corrugated material and bale. * Collect paper in gaylords and cans/bottles from the break room. * Keep collected materials in the supplied trailer whenever possible. * Keep a Bill of ...

Operator, Opening Room

Mayodan, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Every lift must be plugged into a charging station when not in use or the operator is at break ... Place all bale wire ties in the designated metal dumpster. Any burlap, plastic, and/or ...

Every lift must be plugged into a charging station when not in use or the operator is at break ... Place all bale wire ties in the designated metal dumpster. Any burlap, plastic, and/or ...

TEARING LINE OPERATOR - 3rd

Dalton, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The bales are tied with ropes and the bale ticket number is recorded on the Bale production sheet. Bales are stored in the warehouse for future use. * Must break down the machines when there is a ...

Operator, Opening Room

Mayodan, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Every lift must be plugged into a charging station when not in use or the operator is at break ... Place all bale wire ties in the designated metal dumpster. Any burlap, plastic, and/or ...

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Bale Breaker information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do bale breaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for bale breaker in the United States is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Bale Breaker, you need physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and a basic understanding of material handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, conveyor systems, and sometimes forklifts or pallet jacks is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently processing materials, maintaining workplace safety, and supporting smooth production operations.

What is the difference between Bale Breaker vs Harvest Worker?

AspectBale BreakerHarvest Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require machinery operation certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; physical fitness and experience in manual labor
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor, operating machinery in a brewery or manufacturing settingOutdoor fields, manual labor, seasonal work
Employer & IndustryBrewery or beverage manufacturing industryAgriculture and farming industry

The main difference between a Bale Breaker and a Harvest Worker lies in their work environment and industry. Bale Breakers operate machinery in breweries or manufacturing plants, focusing on processing grains, while Harvest Workers perform manual labor outdoors during harvest seasons in agriculture. Both roles require physical stamina, but Bale Breakers typically need some technical skills related to machinery operation.

What are Bale Breakers and what do they do?

Bale Breakers are machines or workers responsible for breaking apart compacted bales of materials, such as cotton, textiles, recycled paper, or plastics, to prepare them for further processing. In industrial settings, a Bale Breaker machine loosens and separates the material from tightly packed bales for easier handling and processing down the production line. When referring to a job title, a Bale Breaker operator oversees this equipment, ensures smooth workflow, and monitors for any issues during the process. This role is important for maintaining productivity and ensuring materials are properly prepared for manufacturing or recycling.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Jobs that can pay $5,000 a week without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial truck driving, construction management, or specialized technical roles like HVAC or electrical work, especially with experience and certifications. High-paying sales positions, real estate agents, and certain entrepreneurial ventures can also reach this income level, typically requiring strong skills, networking, and sometimes licensing or certification. These roles often involve physically demanding work, irregular hours, or self-employment.

What are some common challenges faced by Bale Breakers in a production facility?

Bale Breakers often work in fast-paced, physically demanding environments where handling large, compacted bales of raw materials is a daily task. Common challenges include managing the repetitive nature of the work, adhering to strict safety protocols while operating machinery, and ensuring consistent material feed to prevent production slowdowns. Teamwork and clear communication with maintenance and production staff are essential to quickly resolve equipment issues and maintain workflow. Staying focused and proactive can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a safe, efficient operation.
More about Bale Breaker jobs
What states have the most Bale Breaker jobs? States with the most job openings for Bale Breaker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Bale Breaker job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,805 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Bale Loader Operator

Bale Loader Operator

Owens Corning

Wahpeton, ND • On-site

$19.50/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Owens Corning rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Location: Wahpeton, ND
Business/Functional Unit: Doors/NA Residential - Components
Compensation: $19.50/hour
Shift: 2nd Shift
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM (Non-Rotating)
Purpose of the Role
The Bale Loader Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling, loading, and movement of straw bales to support uninterrupted plant production. This role involves operating bale loaders and related equipment, maintaining material flow to conveyors, and ensuring housekeeping, safety, and equipment standards are met. The Bale Loader Operator plays a critical role in supporting production efficiency, material integrity, and overall plant safety.
Reporting Structure
Reports To: Shift Supervisor
Collaborates With: Bale Breaker Operator, Fiber Prep Operator
Key Responsibilities
  • Load raw fiber onto or into conveyors to ensure uninterrupted production.
  • Notify the Shift Supervisor of any excess dust leakage or emissions from the plant.
  • Inform the Bale Breaker Operator which bale stacks are being utilized.
  • Perform daily inspections on all bale loaders operated during the shift.
  • Maintain cleanliness of loaders and ensure preventative maintenance is completed.
  • Submit work orders for required repairs to loaders, equipment, or building areas.
  • Complete incident or accident reports for any damage to equipment or facilities during the shift.
  • Perform daily housekeeping tasks, including cleaning under conveyors and maintaining the straw yard.
  • Learn and operate truck scale
  • Load ash into truck trailers without damaging equipment or trailer.
  • Assist with snow removal and yard maintenance as required.
  • Provide suggestions for improvement related to storage, handling, and usage of straw and fiber materials.
  • Communicate effectively with relief personnel during shift change.
  • Promote a positive work attitude and team-oriented environment.
  • Comply with all company policies, safety rules, and procedures.
  • Maintains the cleanliness and organization of straw yard.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
Experience: Previous experience operating forklifts, bale loaders, or farm/industrial equipment preferred.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb in and out of loaders multiple times per shift.
  • Ability to crawl under and on loaders to perform basic maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong safety awareness and attention to detail.
  • Good mechanical aptitude.
  • Ability to maintain accurate production and inventory records.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Effective verbal communication skills.

Work Environment
Manufacturing and yard environment with exposure to heavy equipment, dust, noise, and outdoor weather conditions. The role requires regular operation of mobile equipment and physical activity throughout the shift.
Additional Information
This job description outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the Bale Loader Operator role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list and may be modified as business needs evolve.
About Owens Corning
Masonite is now proudly part of Owens Corning. Owens Corning is a global building and construction materials leader committed to building a sustainable future through material innovation. Our four integrated businesses - Roofing, Insulation, Doors, and Composites - provide durable, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions that leverage our unique material science, manufacturing, and market knowledge to help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 employees in 31 countries dedicated to generating value for our customers and shareholders, and making a difference in the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1938 and based in Toledo, Ohio, USA, Owens Corning posted 2023 sales of $9.7 billion. For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com. Owens Corning is an equal opportunity employer.

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About OWENS CORNING

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Owens Corning (OC) develops, manufactures and markets insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. Global in scope and human in scale, the company's market-leading businesses use their deep expertise in materials, manufacturing and building science to develop products and systems that save energy and improve comfort in commercial and residential buildings. Through its glass reinforcements business, the company makes thousands of products lighter, stronger and more durable. Ultimately, Owens Corning people and products make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning posted 2017 sales of $6.4 billion and employs 19,000 people in 37 countries. It has been a Fortune 500® company for 64 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com. A career at Owens Corning offers the ability to enhance your expertise and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. Through it all, we'll empower you with an environment that encourages open communication and big ideas, competitive pay for your performance, comprehensive benefits, and more opportunities to make your impact.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Toledo, OH, US

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