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Baler Operator Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Baler/Scrap

Havre De Grace, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Baler Operator Position Classification: Non-Exempt - Hourly Range of Pay: $18-$20 Job Summary: The Baler Operator will operate baling machine to bale scrap foam. The Operator will tie off completed ...

Baler/Scrap

Havre De Grace, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Baler Operator Position Classification: Non-Exempt - Hourly Range of Pay: $18-$20 Job Summary: The Baler Operator will operate baling machine to bale scrap foam. The Operator will tie off completed ...

Baler/Scrap

Havre De Grace, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Baler Operator Position Classification: Non-Exempt - Hourly Range of Pay: $18-$20 Job Summary: The Baler Operator will operate baling machine to bale scrap foam. The Operator will tie off completed ...

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

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 ...

Forklift Operator

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $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 ...

Forklift Operator

Monrovia, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $19/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 ...

Forklift Operator

Columbia, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $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 ...

Overnight Stock

Taneytown, MD · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

... operating the baler, put the compacted bale on a pallet and load salvage on to trucks. • To change signs, light bulbs, tags and price markers on the shelf display. • To assist cashier's by ...

Maintenance Assistant

Wheaton, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Cleans warehouse floors, offices, break room, and restrooms by operating self-propelled floor ... Operates garbage compactor and cardboard baler. * Checks daily schedule for assigned routine tasks ...

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Baler Operator information

See Maryland salary details

$6

$15

$20

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Maryland is $15.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in Maryland?

For Baler Operator jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in MD?

For Baler Operator jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,493 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Baler/Scrap

Leggett & Platt

Havre De Grace, MD • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Leggett & Platt rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 52 rated furniture manufacturers


Job description

We make life more comfortable.

Leggett & Platt's overall mission is a commitment to enhance lives - by delivering quality products, offering empowering and rewarding careers, and doing our part in bringing about a better future.

Leggett & Platt's inventive heritage and leadership in the residential products industry span more than 130 years. As The Components People, we are the leading supplier of a wide range of products and components for all areas of life, including mattress springs and carpet cushion, as well as bedding machinery and erosion-control products.

From aerospace tubing and fabricated assemblies to flooring underlayment and carpet cushion, Leggett & Platt has divisions that design, manufacture, and sell a variety of products. Our reliable product development and launch capability, coupled with our global footprint, make us a trusted partner for customers in the aerospace, hydraulic cylinders, flooring, textile, and geo components industries.

Learn more about the history of Leggett: https://leggett.com/history

Bedding

The world leader in bedding technology.

Leggett & Platt has been the driving force in bedding components technology since inventing the bedspring in 1885. Now, we own more mattress industry patents than anyone in the world.

Springs, foam, adjustable beds, machinery - our Bedding businesses design, produce, and supply innovative sleep solutions that help you rest comfortably.

Learn more about Bedding Components: L&P Bedding Group

Job Title: Baler Operator

Position Classification: Non-Exempt - Hourly

Range of Pay: $18-$20

Job Summary:

The Baler Operator will operate baling machine to bale scrap foam.  The Operator will tie off completed bales, and package for shipment.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Education & Experience:

Must be at least 18 years of age to perform this job. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Push empty scrap buggies from the baling area to the areas of the plant where they are used and exchange with full buggies of scrap foam. Then push full buggies to baling area to be baled.
  • Separate foam types for separate baling (when needed).
  • Load scrap foam into the baler and activate with hand buttons.
  • When bale is complete, tie off the complete bale.
  • Remove the bale from the baler with the squeeze tow motor (license required), and move to scales to be weighted and tagged.
  • Move completed bale to the bale storage area. Repeat process continuously throughout shift.
  • To ensure that all scrap foam is baled and stored in the proper area, all bales rare to be tagged with the correct weight. Daily log sheet is turned into the lead person.
  • Wear proper PPE as required.
  • Maintain excellent housekeeping practices in production area.
  • Practice proper safety techniques.
  • Complete general area maintenance duties on equipment as assigned. This may include help from the maintenance department when necessary.
  • Follow all procedures and guidelines.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education:

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

  • Good mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
  • Able to work accurately from verbal and written instructions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time.
  • Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; maintains a clean and organized work environment.
  • Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity.
  • Safety - Observes all safety procedures and policies; Reports potentially unsafe conditions to supervisor; Uses equipment and materials properly.
  • Good attention to detail.
  • Able to work accurately from verbal and written instructions

This description is a general statement of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continual basis. It does not exclude other duties that may be assigned.

Competitive Benefits Include:

Health Insurance           
Dental Insurance           
Vision Insurance            
Paid time off     
401K Retirement Plan with Company Match
Life Insurance  
Disability Programs       
Employee Assistance Program

Flexible Spending/Health Savings Account

Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action / Veteran / Disability Employer

For more information about how we handle your personal data in connection with our recruiting processes, please refer to the Recruiting Privacy Notice on the "Privacy Notice" tab located at http://privacy.leggett.com

What to Do Next

Now that you've had a chance to learn more about us, what are you waiting for! Apply today and allow us the opportunity to learn more about you and the value you can bring to our team. Once you apply, be sure to create a profile, and sign up for job alerts, so you can be the first to know when new opportunities become available.

Our Values

Our values speak to our shared beliefs, and describe how we approach working together.

  • Put People First reflects our commitment to safety and care of each other, learning and development, and creating an inclusive environment of mutual respect, empathy and belonging.
  • Do the Right Thing focuses us on acting with honesty and integrity, delivering the results the right way, taking pride in our work, and speaking the truth - good or bad.
  • Do Great Work...Together occurs when we engage without hierarchy, collaborate as a team, embrace challenges, and work for the good of all of us.
  • Take Ownership and Raise the Bar demonstrates our responsibility to add value and make a difference, challenge the status quo and biases to make things better, foster innovative and creative solutions to drive impact, and explore new perspectives and embrace change.

Our Commitment to You

We're actively taking steps to make sure our culture is inclusive and that our processes and practices promote equity for all. Leggett & Platt is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veteran status, and more. Join us!

We welcome and encourage applications if you meet the minimum qualifications. Even if you do not meet the preferred qualifications, we'd love the opportunity to consider you.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veteran/Disability Employer

For more information about how we handle your personal data in connection with our recruiting processes, please refer to the Recruiting Privacy Notice on the "Privacy Notice" tab located at http://privacy.leggett.com


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