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Bale Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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:

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Hanger Bale Associate-C Shift

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

As a three-man operator team, the Hanger Bale Associate is responsible for assisting the Hanger Bale Specialist in the efficient and safe operation of the Hanger Bale machines. Reports to Supervisor.

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Bale Operator information

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How much do bale operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for bale operator 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 Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bale Operator, you need practical knowledge of machinery operation, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with baling machines, forklifts, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers may prefer forklift certification. Physical stamina, teamwork, and a strong focus on safety are crucial soft skills for this position. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize workplace accidents, and maintain smooth operations in manufacturing or recycling facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Bale Operator, and how can they be overcome?

Bale Operators often encounter challenges such as managing the physical demands of operating heavy machinery and handling large volumes of materials. Maintaining safety standards while working in fast-paced environments is crucial, as is ensuring that equipment remains in good working order to prevent downtime. Effective communication with team members and supervisors helps quickly address issues and maintain workflow. Staying organized and attentive to detail also supports accurate record-keeping and efficient operation.

What is a Bale Operator?

A Bale Operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery that compresses and binds materials such as cotton, paper, textiles, or recyclables into bales for storage, transport, or processing. They monitor equipment, ensure bales meet specific size and weight standards, and may perform basic maintenance on the baling machines. Bale Operators are commonly employed in manufacturing, recycling, and agricultural industries, and must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. The role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work in environments that can be noisy or dusty.

What is the difference between Bale Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectBale OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingRequires OSHA forklift certification
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in warehouses, recycling plants, or agricultural settings handling baled materialsOperates forklifts in warehouses, construction sites, or manufacturing facilities
Job DutiesLoads, unloads, and manages baled materials like hay, paper, or textilesMoves pallets, loads trucks, and transports goods within facilities

Both roles involve operating machinery in industrial settings, but Bale Operators focus on managing baled materials, while Forklift Operators handle various goods using forklifts. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Bale Operator jobs
What states have the most Bale Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Bale Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Bale Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 66% Physical, and 34% Hybrid 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 yesterday


Owens Corning rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 515 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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