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Baler Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Veritiv Corporation

OPS - Starch Baler - CK

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Our Starch Baler will be responsible for mixing supplies to make adhesive for production ... Stand when operating order picker or reach truck equipment and when operating cutter. • Sitting ...

Corestaff Services

Be Seen First

Janitor/Baler

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Janitors & Baler Operators - (Bloomington, CA) Immediate Openings We're hiring reliable candidates to fill multiple shifts. This facility operates 7 days a week , so weekend availability may be ...

Berryvale Grocery

Morning Crew 2 PT

Mount Shasta, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.90/hr

Cardboard Baler Operator: * Load and compress cardboard into the baler. * Bind bales when the baler is full. * Follow safety protocols when operating the baler. * Follow safety procedures when moving ...

Berryvale Grocery

Evening Crew 2 PT

Mount Shasta, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.90/hr

Cardboard Baler Operator: * Load and compress cardboard into the baler. * Bind bales when the baler is full. * Follow safety protocols when operating the baler. * Follow safety procedures when moving ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Ontario, CA

$17 - $20/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Hayward, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Tracy, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

Benicia, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23.25/hr

Operates cardboard baler. * Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. * Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery. * Assists with department duties as necessary. * Assists ...

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Baler Operator information

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$15

$21

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in California is $15.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.79 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.

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Baler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,040 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Baler Operator (Temporary) - 21216

Baler Operator (Temporary) - 21216

TalentZok

San Diego, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Temporary

Medical

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Baler Operator (Temporary) - TalentZök

OVERVIEW

Are you looking for a new career opportunity with an exciting company?! Then we've got the right team for you! In this role, you're responsible for the duties listed below.

Immediate opening for a Baler Operator (Temporary) in San Diego, CA who possesses:

  • 1 year of baler operator experience
  • Ability to use a manual pallet jack
  • Ability to follow proper safety protocols

FULL DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a Baler Operator to support a short-term temporary warehouse project in San Diego, CA. This role is responsible for operating a baler, moving bales using a manual pallet jack, supporting loading needs, cleaning the machine and surrounding work area, and following all property and warehouse safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have prior baler operating experience, manual pallet jack experience, and the ability to work safely and efficiently in a warehouse environment.

The selected candidate will be responsible for:

  • Operating a baler to process excess materials
  • Preparing and securing bales according to warehouse procedures
  • Moving bales using a manual pallet jack
  • Placing bales in designated areas for loading
  • Supporting loading of bales onto trucks as needed
  • Cleaning the baler and surrounding work area
  • Maintaining a safe, organized, and efficient workspace
  • Following all property, warehouse, and equipment safety protocols
  • Reporting equipment issues, safety concerns, or material concerns to the onsite supervisor
  • Supporting general warehouse clean-up as needed
  • Performing other duties as assigned

The selected candidate will also possess:

  • 1 year of baler operator experience preferred
  • Strong warehouse background may be considered
  • Ability to use a manual pallet jack required
  • Ability to follow proper safety protocols required
  • Ability to work safely around warehouse equipment and materials
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
  • Strong attention to safety and accuracy
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality
  • Ability to support a short-term temporary assignment lasting a few days up to one week
  • Ability to work Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or as otherwise assigned
  • Ability to work onsite in San Diego, CA

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, push, pull, and move throughout the warehouse during the shift
  • Ability to use a manual pallet jack to move bales and warehouse materials
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, and move materials as needed
  • Ability to operate a baler safely and according to warehouse procedures
  • Ability to perform repetitive movements related to baling, pallet jack use, loading support, and warehouse clean-up
  • Ability to clean the machine and surrounding work area as needed
  • Ability to work in a warehouse environment while following all safety procedures
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment as needed

Salary Range: $20/hour
More information can be found at www.talentzok.com.

Company Description

TalentZok was founded in 2008 and has been repeatedly recognized as one of San Diego County's fastest growing businesses. In 2025, we were named Business Journal's 'Best Places to Work'. Even as our competitors are scaling back and laying off staff, Simply Biotech is expanding to new markets and hiring additional staff in existing offices.