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Baler Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baler Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Baler Operator - Full-Time ???? Lincoln, NE ???? Alter Trading Corporation ???? 1st Shift - Monday-Friday (occasional weekends as needed) About Us Alter Trading Corporation, a 127-year-old, privately ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

As a Baler Operator, your contributions support our community-focused vision, enhancing both productivity and environmental responsibility. Discover the Unique Aspects of Our Team We're more than ...

Baler Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Equipment Operator (Baler Operator) Job Summary Mid Valley Disposal is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Equipment Operator (Baler Operator) to support daily operations at our Compost and Transfer ...

Baler Operator

Danbury, CT · On-site

$26/hr

Overview Interstate Waste Services in Danbury, CT is looking for an experienced Baler Operator. Full TIme Monday thru Firday with some Saturdays Full Union Benefit Package Early start time $22.00 to ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC

$13 - $16.25/hr

As a Baler Operator, your contributions support our community-focused vision, enhancing both productivity and environmental responsibility. Discover the Unique Aspects of Our Team We're more than ...

Interstate Waste Services in Danbury, CT is looking for an experienced Baler Operator. Full TIme Monday thru Firday with some Saturdays Full Union Benefit Package Early start time $22.00 to $26.00 ...

Baler Operator

Frisco, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Baler Operator is responsible for machinery that compresses and binds recyclable materials into bales for easy storage and transportation. This position requires the operator to monitor the ...

Baler Operator

Danbury, CT · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Interstate Waste Services in Danbury, CT is looking for an experienced Baler Operator. Full TIme Monday thru Firday with some Saturdays Full Union Benefit Package Early start time $22.00 to $26.00 ...

BALER OPERATOR

New Oxford, PA

$14.50 - $18/hr

WE ARE CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR A 2ND SHIFT BALER OPERATOR IN OUR NEW OXFORD, PA FACILITY RESPONSIBILITIES: Check waste carts and loads for correct waste tag information with signatures. Help keep a ...

Baler Operator

Danbury, CT · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Overview Interstate Waste Services in Danbury, CT is looking for an experienced Baler Operator. Full TIme Monday thru Firday with some Saturdays Full Union Benefit Package Early start time $22.00 to ...

Baler Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary The Baler Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining an automatic baling machine used for processing scrap foam materials. The position plays a critical role in ensuring ...

Baler Operator

Conover, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

General Information Job ID ATR64520 Posting Job Title Baler Operator Locations NC Conover Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 15-Jul-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements Smurfit ...

Baler Operator

Jessup, MD

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Description Job Summary The Baler Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining an automatic baling machine used for processing scrap foam materials. The position plays a critical role in ...

Baler Operator

Gary, IN

$15 - $18.75/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Danbury, CT · On-site

$26/hr

Overview Interstate Waste Services in Danbury, CT is looking for an experienced Baler Operator. Full TIme Monday thru Firday with some Saturdays Full Union Benefit Package Early start time $22.00 to ...

Baler Operator

Conroe, TX

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Texas Tissue Converting - Conroe, TX Full-Time | 2/2/3 Rotational Shifts Texas Tissue Converting is looking for a dependable and safety-focused Baler Operator to join our Production team. In this ...

Baler Operator

Conroe, TX

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Texas Tissue Converting - Conroe, TX Full-Time | 2/2/3 Rotational Shifts Texas Tissue Converting is looking for a dependable and safety-focused Baler Operator to join our Production team. In this ...

Baler Operator

Conroe, TX

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Texas Tissue Converting - Conroe, TX Full-Time | 2/2/3 Rotational Shifts Texas Tissue Converting is looking for a dependable and safety-focused Baler Operator to join our Production team. In this ...

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Baler Operator information

See salary details

$7

$16

$21

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a baler operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Baler Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, basic mechanical aptitude, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial balers, safety protocols, and sometimes forklift certification are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure efficient, safe operation and quick response to equipment issues. These skills are essential for maintaining productivity, preventing accidents, and ensuring the smooth processing of recyclable materials.

What are some common challenges baler operators face and how can they be addressed on the job?

Baler Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, material jams, and maintaining consistent output quality. Staying attentive during operations and performing regular equipment inspections can help prevent major breakdowns. Additionally, effective communication with maintenance teams and following established safety protocols are crucial for resolving issues promptly and ensuring a safe work environment. Many facilities also provide ongoing training to help operators troubleshoot problems and improve efficiency.

What does a baler operator do?

A Baler Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining baling machines that compress materials like cardboard, paper, plastics, or textiles into compact bales for recycling or disposal. They monitor the machine to ensure proper operation, clear jams, and tie off completed bales. Baler Operators also inspect materials for contaminants and maintain a clean and safe work area. Their role is essential in recycling centers, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities to promote efficient waste management.

What is the difference between Baler Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectBaler OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationRequires forklift certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in recycling plants, warehouses, manufacturing facilitiesWorks in warehouses, distribution centers, construction sites
Job DutiesOperates balers to compress recyclable materials or wasteOperates forklifts to move pallets and materials
Industry UsageCommon in recycling, waste management, manufacturingCommon in logistics, warehousing, construction

While both roles involve equipment operation and safety certifications, Baler Operators focus on compressing recyclable materials using baling machines, primarily in recycling or waste management industries. Forklift Operators handle material movement within warehouses and distribution centers. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and industry interests.

What is a baler operator?

A baler operator controls and maintains an automatic machine that bales rubber pellets. As a baler operator, your primary duties are to calibrate the machine, observe the meters on the machine during operation, and take the wet bales out of the machine. Qualifications needed for a career as a baler operator include a high school diploma or GED certificate, job experience operating heavy machinery or postsecondary training to prepare you for mechanical operations, mechanical skills, a keen eye for detail, and knowledge of all safety practices.

What cities are hiring for Baler Operator jobs? Cities with the most Baler Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Baler Operator jobs? The top employers for Baler Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Baler Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Baler Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs? For Baler Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,479 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Baler Operator

Alter Trading Corp

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Alter Trading rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 88 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Baler Operator – Full-Time

???? Lincoln, NE

???? Alter Trading Corporation

???? 1st Shift - Monday–Friday (occasional weekends as needed)

About Us

Alter Trading Corporation, a 127-year-old, privately held company operating over 70+ scrap metal processing facilities across 11 states. We are a leader in the metals recycling industry, trading recycled materials both nationally and internationally. Our team is committed to safety, integrity, and operational excellence.

Position Summary

The Baler Operator operates hydraulic machines to compress and bind recyclable metal materials into dense, manageable bales. Key responsibilities include coordinating with mobile equipment operators the loading materials into the machine, monitoring machine performance, working with the Baler team to tie off finished bales, and performing maintenance to ensure safety. Baler operator will also serve as a secondary check to ensure material for baling meeting quality standards. Will complete daily reports on the machine for inventory, safety maintenance and operational purposes.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED preferred but not required
  • Prior experience in metals preferred but not required
  • Ability to interact with customers, employees and vendors in a friendly and courteous manner
  • Strong attention to safety and detail
Safety

Must wear all necessary PPE while working or while in the yard. Follows company safety standards at all times. Failure to follow standards may result in loss of position.

Apply Today!

Ready to join a team that values safety, teamwork, and long-term success? Click Apply Now to enhance your career with Alter Trading Corporation.


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