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Baler Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mid Valley Disposal & Transfer

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

Mira Loma, CA

$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 ...

gnc

$24 - $26/hr

Machine Operator - 1st Shift Quick Turn Department Position is located at: 9399 Hampshire Ave. N ... baler/shredder. This position will perform physical and manual labor of a general character and ...

gnc

$24 - $28/hr

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Plus $2.00/hour Shift Differential) Quick Turn Department Position is ... baler/shredder. This position will perform physical and manual labor of a general character and ...

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Baler Operator information

See California salary details

$7

$15

$21

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 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

Baler Operator

Mid Valley Disposal & Transfer

Fresno, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

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 Station facilities. This role is critical to maintaining efficient material flow through the operation by safely operating balers and related processing equipment.

In addition to hands-on equipment operation, this position involves basic programming, setup, and troubleshooting of baler systems and control software. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, comfortable working around heavy equipment, and takes pride in keeping operations running smoothly and safely.

This position reports directly to the Production Supervisor, based on assigned worksite.

What You’ll Be Responsible ForGeneral Equipment Operation

  • Operate balers and other heavy equipment, including loaders, grinders, screens, excavators, forklifts, and related machinery

  • Safely set up, start, adjust, and shut down baler systems

  • Perform daily pre- and post-operation equipment inspections

  • Clean assigned equipment daily, including removal of debris and cleaning operator cabs

  • Follow daily production schedules and operational direction from supervisors

  • Maintain required production and quality standards

  • Comply with all company safety policies and procedures at all times

  • Complete required training and ongoing performance assessments

  • Assist with floor sorting and material handling as needed

Baler Programming & System Troubleshooting

  • Program and adjust baler operating parameters using control panels and system software

  • Monitor system performance through HMIs and onboard displays

  • Troubleshoot basic system, sensor, and control issues to reduce downtime

  • Identify abnormalities in material flow, bale density, wire/tie systems, and system alerts

  • Communicate equipment or system issues clearly to supervisors and maintenance teams

  • Assist maintenance personnel with software-based diagnostics when requested

Minimum QualificationsEducation

  • High School Diploma or GED required

Experience

  • Minimum 1 year of experience in recycling, warehouse operations, or baler operation preferred

  • Experience operating balers and/or heavy equipment such as loaders, forklifts, or excavators

  • Prior experience in waste transfer, recycling, composting, or industrial environments preferred

  • Experience working with computerized equipment controls, HMIs, or system interfaces preferred

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and safety awareness

  • Mechanically inclined with the ability to identify operational issues

  • Ability to program, adjust, and troubleshoot basic baler system controls

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills

  • Ability to adapt to changing site needs and production schedules

  • Bilingual in Spanish preferred

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This role involves working in an industrial environment with heavy equipment. Employees must be able to sit, stand, walk, reach, and use hands for equipment operation and controls. Regular exposure to noise, moving machinery, and outdoor conditions is expected. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.