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Bale Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MRF Bale Floater Operator

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Bale Floater Operator_Split Shift LOCATION: MRF Tajiguas Landfill FLSA EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, hourly PREPARED DATE: August 24, 2026 REPORTS TO: Operations Manager DIRECT REPORTS: None ...

New

MRF Bale Floater Operator

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Bale Floater Operator_Split Shift LOCATION: MRF Tajiguas Landfill FLSA EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, hourly PREPARED DATE: August 24, 2026 REPORTS TO: Operations Manager DIRECT REPORTS: None ...

New

MRF Bale Floater Operator

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Bale Floater Operator_Split Shift LOCATION: MRF Tajiguas Landfill FLSA EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, hourly PREPARED DATE: August 24, 2026 REPORTS TO: Operations Manager DIRECT REPORTS: None ...

New

Bale press equipment * Forklifts * Loaders * Trailers and support equipment * Mechanical systems * Welding and fabrication support * Coordinate and supervise maintenance work involving: * Mechanical ...

Bale press equipment * Forklifts * Loaders * Trailers and support equipment * Mechanical systems * Welding and fabrication support * Coordinate and supervise maintenance work involving: * Mechanical ...

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment) Position Summary: The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of ...

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment) Position Summary: The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of ...

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment) Position Summary: The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of ...

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment) Position Summary: The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of ...

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Clamp Forklift Operator Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment) The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of recycled paper and ...

Forklift Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $21.75/hr

Manually sort and bale trash, plastic, Styrofoam, wood and cardboard. Prepare recycle materials for transport by palletize, wrapping, and loading. Prepare shipment loads and move recycle containers ...

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Showing results 1-20

Bale information

See California salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do bale jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bale in California is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bale operator?

Bale operators are workers responsible for handling, processing, and transporting bales—large, compacted bundles of materials such as hay, cotton, paper, or recyclable goods. Their duties often include operating machinery to compress and bind materials, moving finished bales using forklifts or pallet jacks, and ensuring that bales are properly labeled and stored. Bale operators play a crucial role in industries like agriculture, recycling, and manufacturing by helping manage bulk materials efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bale operator?

To thrive as a Bale Operator, you need a strong understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and basic mechanical skills, usually acquired through on-the-job training or a high school diploma. Familiarity with baling machines, forklifts, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate processing of materials in manufacturing or recycling environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in bale handling roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in bale handling roles often encounter challenges such as managing heavy or awkwardly shaped loads, maintaining safety standards, and operating machinery efficiently. To address these issues, it's important to follow proper lifting techniques, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and stay updated on safety protocols. Regular training on equipment operation and effective communication with team members can also help prevent accidents and ensure smooth workflow. Additionally, staying organized and planning the movement of bales can reduce physical strain and improve overall efficiency.

What is the difference between Bale vs Crane Operator?

AspectBaleCrane Operator
Required CertificationsMaterial handling, forklift, or specific bale handling certificationsCrane operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, farms, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial settings
Industry UsageAgriculture, manufacturing, logisticsConstruction, shipping, heavy industry

While both roles involve equipment operation, a Bale typically refers to handling and managing bales of materials like hay or textiles, requiring specific handling certifications. A Crane Operator specializes in operating cranes for lifting heavy loads in construction or industrial environments. The key differences lie in the equipment used, certifications required, and work settings.

Infographic showing various Bale job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,310 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

MRF Bale Floater Operator

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

MarBorg Industries
Environmental Consulting Services • 201 - 500 employees

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We set our pay based on several factors including knowledge, experience, education, training, certifications and location.  Our competitive benefit package and the rewarding work we do for the planet combined make MarBorg a great place to work.  


MarBorg Recovery

Job Description


JOB TITLE: Bale Floater Operator_Split Shift

LOCATION: MRF Tajiguas Landfill

FLSA EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, hourly        

PREPARED DATE: August 24, 2026

REPORTS TO: Operations Manager

DIRECT REPORTS: None


POSITION SUMMARY:  Responsible for cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting the Baler and Baler components on a daily basis while providing coverage support to the Bale Floor with equipment operations as needed. Provide coverage for Tip Floor equipment operators as needed.

A TYPICAL DAY: This is not just a job; this is a dedicated team determined to redefine waste recovery. We believe in making a difference every hour, every day.  Our positive energy and time are invested for the purpose of a cleaner future for our county, next generation, and a greener environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following: 

•    Oversee the daily cleaning and lubrication of all Baling equipment. 

•    Perform thorough inspections of Baling equipment and provide detailed report of damaged or worn parts.

•    Work a mid-shift schedule 10am-630pm

•    Flexibility to cover Tip Floor heavy equipment operations and Bale Floor forklift operation as needed.

•    Gain an in-depth knowledge Baling equipment.

•    Performs daily inspections of equipment and inventory.

•    Increases production by minimizing down time of critical Baling assets.

•    Ensures and/or maintains the safety and cleanliness of all service, and work areas, tools, and facilities.

•    Flexibility to cover both shifts for callouts and vacations. 

•    Partners with maintenance when issues arise.

•    Supports MarBorg Recovery’s Mission & Core Values.

•    Maintains a feeling of pride in work, strives to achieve all goals.  

•    Contribute towards a fun and rewarding place to work.

•    Perform all other duties as assigned in a professional and efficient manner.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE: 

•    Knowledge of Baling equipment operations.  

•    Working knowledge of MRF guidelines and best practices.

•    Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

•    Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills.

•    Creative and effective problem-solving skills.

•    Good time management skills to ensure assigned responsibilities are completed in an efficient and safe manner.

•    Forklift certification experience.

•    Heavy equipment experience

•    Experience in industrial facility preferred.

•    Ability to take notes on inspection findings.

•    Ability to accept constructive feedback and to work collaboratively with upper management and other stakeholders to identify and facilitate needed improvements to the Recovery location.

•    Good follow through ability; ability to adhere to work schedule and follows through on challenges as they arise.

•    Ability to adhere to Company policies and rules set forth; promotes the Company’s safety standards; does not take inappropriate risks.

CORE COMPETENCIES: 

•    Doing Good – (i.e. Code of Conduct).

•    Making Good – (i.e. Accountability, responsibility and ownership for a problem).

•    Treating People Well – (i.e. Works cooperatively and effectively with others).

•    Environmentally Focused (i.e. Employee takes initiative as a LEED building initiative to preserve and improve our local environment for future generations).

•    Observant: (i.e. Employee can identify safety or operational deficiencies and to quickly implement a correction).

•    Safety Matters: Employee actively participates and promotes a safe and healthy workplace.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES: Teambuilding, communication, conflict resolution, delegation, coaching/positive influence

EDUCATION: High school degree/GED preferred.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Position requires excellent verbal and written English communication skills including; ability to read, comprehend, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. Basic Spanish communication skills desired.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

REASONING ABILITY:

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

CERTIFICATIONS: None.

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 is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance for long periods of time on concrete floors; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and peripheral vision

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

We are a drug free & alcohol-free work environment.  

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes, or airborne particles, and outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud and dirty. Required to put on protective outfits, like gloves, safety footwear, and hard-hat.

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Compensation details: 24-29 Hourly Wage


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