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Baler Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Baler Operator - 1st Shift

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Replace bale wire on machine, as needed. * Troubleshoot baler issues immediately. * Thorough and ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

Pratt Industries

Baler Operator - 3rd Shift

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Replace bale wire on machine, as needed. * Troubleshoot baler issues immediately. * Thorough and ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

HORIZON GOODWILL

Quality Control Baler

Cumberland, MD · On-site

$15/hr

The baler is responsible for operating the baling machine, constructing bales of textiles, operating the forklift to move bales to the storage area, and assisting with loading bales onto the salvage ...

Onin Staffing

Baler

Livingston, AL

$12/hr

The Baler Operator will safely operate baling machinery to process recyclable and waste materials. This role involves sorting materials, monitoring equipment performance, and maintaining a clean work ...

Carpenter Co.

Machine Operator - Bedding

Fogelsville, PA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator 2nd shift at our Fogelsville, Pa ... Place excess trim material in baler. * Maintain communication with line personnel to ensure ...

New

Stem Xpert

Production Associate

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Baler - Machine Operator: Run baler machine to compress and bind cardboard. Maintain the work area, keep equipment in a clean and orderly condition, and follow prescribed safety regulations. Break ...

Carpenter Co.

Machine Operator - Bedding

Fogelsville, PA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator 2nd shift at our Fogelsville, Pa ... Place excess trim material in baler. * Maintain communication with line personnel to ensure ...

New

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Baler Machine Operator information

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How much do baler machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler machine operator in the United States is $16.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a baler machine operator?

Baler Machine Operators are workers responsible for operating machines that compress and bind materials, such as cardboard, paper, plastics, or textiles, into compact bales for recycling, disposal, or shipment. They ensure the baler runs efficiently, monitor safety standards, and perform routine maintenance. Baler Machine Operators also inspect materials for contaminants, keep records of production, and may assist with loading and unloading bales.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a baler machine operator?

To thrive as a Baler Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with baling machines, basic maintenance tools, and possibly forklift certification are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to equipment issues and work well in team environments. These skills are crucial for maintaining productivity, ensuring workplace safety, and minimizing equipment downtime.

What are common challenges faced by baler machine operators, and how can they be addressed?

Baler Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment jams, material inconsistencies, and maintaining safety standards while operating heavy machinery. Frequent machine jams can disrupt workflow, so developing a strong troubleshooting skillset and adhering to regular maintenance schedules are essential. Additionally, working closely with team members in recycling or warehouse environments helps ensure smooth material flow and quick resolution of issues. Staying up to date with safety protocols and communicating effectively with supervisors also play a key role in overcoming day-to-day challenges.

What is the difference between Baler Machine Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectBaler Machine OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentFactories, recycling plantsManufacturing facilities, production lines
Job FocusOperating and monitoring baler machinesSetting up and adjusting machines for production

The Baler Machine Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining baler machines in industrial settings, ensuring efficient compression of materials. In contrast, a Machine Setter is responsible for preparing and adjusting machinery before production begins. While both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, the Baler Machine Operator emphasizes ongoing operation, whereas the Machine Setter concentrates on setup and calibration.

More about Baler Machine Operator jobs

What states have the most Baler Machine Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Baler Machine Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Baler Machine Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Baler Machine Operator jobs are:

Baler Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baler Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,479 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Baler Operator - 1st Shift

Pratt Industries

Vandalia, OH • On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 110 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Employees must be able to safely and accurately operate forklift, and baler machine to pick up and recycle waste. This position is on 1st shift - Mon - Fri, 7a-3p


Essential Functions/Position Responsibilities:

  • Able to safely operate forklift to pick up waste pallets and carts.
  • Identify waste ticket placed on units by supervisor and weigh unit on scale.
  • Accurately input weight on waste ticket and baler summary sheet.
  • Place waste safely into the baler.
  • Replace bale wire on machine, as needed.
  • Troubleshoot baler issues immediately.
  • Thorough and proper housekeeping standards within the whole plant, but main focus in baler room.
  • Weigh recycled bale(s) as they come out of baler, then load onto trailer.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task.
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Attention to detail.
  • Ability to add, subtract, & multiply
  • Able to work extended work hours and weekends, as needed
  • Self-motivated
  • Able to work in varying temperatures
  • Professional Attitude & conduct
  • Ability to reconcile all work before it is turned into supervisor.
  • Follow all company policies per Employee Handbook & Code of Conduct.
  • Follow all company safety guidelines.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None


Hiring Requirements/Preferences

  • HS Diploma or GED
  • At least 3 years of forklift experience required.
  • Previous Baler Operator experience preferred.
  • Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times.
  • Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem solving, and time management skills are needed.
  • High degree of safety awareness and safety discipline
  • Strictly adhere to safety requirements and the policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook.
  • Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated operations and production areas as stated by PRATT Safety and OSHA.
  • Willing to travel and work away from home when and if required.
  • Be willing to work nights and weekends when necessary.
  • Have the willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as required.
  • You will be expected to be flexible to the needs of our business, as we continually strive to meet and exceed the needs of our customers.
  • Random and Suspicion Drug tests are performed
  • Please be aware that you must successfully complete a drug screen and background check in order to be hired into the Pratt Industries.
  • Be at least age 18 years of age due to nature of working environment.
  • The ability to work a full shift, come to work on time, work overtime as needed and the ability to work according to the necessary schedule to meet job requirements with or without reasonable accommodation is an essential function of this position.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 9,000 highly skilled green collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than twenty states. The company operates several of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, and childbearing and parental leave.

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