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Baler Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Smurfit Westrock

Baler Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

BALER OPERATOR $21.81 $.25 Shift differential 3RD SHIFT * Must be available to work 12-hour shifts when needed. * Must be willing to work flexible hours and overtime as business needs require. * Must ...

Pratt Industries

Baler Operator

Warner Robins, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Baler Operator REPORTS TO: Corrugating Supervisor SUMMARY Responsible for all activities associated with safely running the baler including operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to ...

Pratt Industries

Baler Operator

Warner Robins, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Baler Operator REPORTS TO: Corrugating Supervisor SUMMARY Responsible for all activities associated with safely running the baler including operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to ...

M&M Recycling

Excavator Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Excavator Operator Company Overview M&M Recycling is a leading scrap metal recycling company and a ... Within the first 90 days, consistently operate the excavator and baler safely, following all ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Operator

College Park, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/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

Tucker, GA · On-site

$16 - $18.75/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 ...

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Baler Operator information

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$6

$13

$18

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Georgia is $13.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $15.24 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 Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,269 per year, or $13.6 per hour.

Baler Operator

Smurfit Westrock

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Smurfit Westrock rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 277 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR65152
Posting Job Title
Baler Operator
Locations
GA Atlanta (SF)
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
11-Aug-2026
Relocation Support
No
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
BALER OPERATOR
$21.81
$.25 Shift differential
3RD SHIFT
  • Must be available to work 12-hour shifts when needed.
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours and overtime as business needs require.
  • Must be available to work alternating Saturdays and additional weekends when applicable.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential to support production operations.

The Opportunity:
  • The Baler Operator is responsible for operating the auger, baler, forklift, and other powered industrial equipment to collect, process, and transport scrap corrugated materials and waste throughout the facility. This position supports production by maintaining waste collection points, ensuring proper recycling procedures, and keeping work areas clean and organized. The Baler Operator must work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced sheet plant environment while complying with all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:
  • Collect loose scrap corrugated material and waste throughout the plant using a forklift and other powered industrial equipment.
  • Ensure all scrap material is properly weighed before baling.
  • Sort, process, and dispose of scrap and waste materials according to company procedures.
  • Maintain waste collection points throughout the facility.
  • Operate the auger and baler equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Strap, stage, and transport finished bales to designated storage areas and outbound trucks using a forklift.
  • Manually feed scrap materials into the auger as required.
  • Perform routine cleaning and housekeeping duties in the baler room and surrounding work areas a MUST.
  • Maintain work areas in accordance with established 7S and housekeeping standards.
  • Complete daily equipment inspections and maintenance check sheets.
  • Follow all safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements and PPE guidelines.
  • Complete required powered industrial truck training and maintain internal certifications.
  • Assist with material transfers, recycling activities, and other duties as assigned.
  • Support continuous improvement efforts and maintain a safe, organized work environment.

What you need to succeed:
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of manufacturing, warehouse, recycling, or industrial work experience preferred.
  • Previous forklift experience required; forklift certification preferred or ability to obtain certification.
  • Ability to safely operate powered industrial trucks and material handling equipment.
  • Basic computer skills for data entry and recordkeeping.
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow written work instructions and safety procedures.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently while maintaining production standards.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated reliability, teamwork, and excellent attendance.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and work on concrete floors for extended periods during a 12-hour shift.
  • Frequently lift, push, pull, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent bending, twisting, stooping, reaching, crouching, grasping, and repetitive movement.
  • Ability to climb on and around equipment as needed.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while operating a forklift.
  • Ability to safely operate forklifts, clamp trucks, and other powered industrial equipment.
  • Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwear.
  • Must be able to work safely around moving machinery, conveyors, forklifts, and industrial equipment.
  • Manufacturing environment within a corrugated paper box sheet plant.
  • Exposure to paper dust, machine noise, vibration, and moving mechanical equipment.
  • Indoor facility temperatures may fluctuate based on seasonal weather conditions, including hot temperatures during summer months and cold temperatures during winter months.
  • Fast-paced production environment requiring adherence to safety, quality, and productivity standards.
  • Frequent forklift traffic and material handling activities throughout the facility.

What we offer:
Benefit eligibility begins Day 1
  • Benefits include:
  • Medical w/ HSA
  • Dental Vision
  • Mental Health
  • 401(k) with 5% company match
  • Paid vacation time & holidays
  • Life Insurance & AD&D
  • Short- & Long-term Disability Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement.

  • Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
  • Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities
  • An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential
  • A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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