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Baler Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

AK Steel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Inkster, MI

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the processing of scrap metals using various tools ... Load baler and shredder using grapple or magnet. * Operate and maintain mobile equipment including ...

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Baler Operator information

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$6

$14

$18

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Michigan is $14.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.72 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.

More about Baler Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in Michigan? For Baler Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Baler Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Baler Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in MI? For Baler Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Baler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,180 per year, or $14 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Inkster, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Cleveland-Cliffs rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 41 rated mining

Job description

Job Description
Location: Inkster, MI
Ferrous Processing and Trading (FPT) is one of North America's premier processors, buyers, sellers and recyclers of scrap metals of all kinds and is a key supplier to the metals industry of North America. FPT is a wholly-owned business of Cleveland-Cliffs and has an immediate opportunity for a Heavy Equipment Operator at our Inkster, MI location. The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the processing of scrap metals using various tools and equipment including crawlers.
Summary of Responsibilities:
  • Ensure adherence to safety standards including use of required personal protective equipment (PPE), remove hazards as identified, and maintain cleanliness of the site.
  • Operate and maintain heavy equipment including but not limited to wheeled crawler and pedestal crawlers from various manufacturers such as Caterpillar, Sennebogen and Liebherr.
  • Operate and maintain equipment movement in response to hand signals or radio commands.
  • Load and unload materials from storage, production areas, docks, delivery vehicles, staging areas, or containers using equipment including but not limited to a magnet and grapple.
  • Sort a variety of recycled materials and metals to separate out high-grade metals and removes any non-conforming metals.
  • Load baler and shredder using grapple or magnet.
  • Operate and maintain mobile equipment including but not limited to forklifts, skid steers, manlifts, street sweeper, and/or water trucks.
  • Perform tasks involving physical labor using tools, including but not limited to standard hand tools, torch, bander, saw zall, and wire snips.
  • Perform daily inspections on all equipment as required.
  • Identify scrap including the grade and type of material and any undesirable elements within the material.
  • Responsible for positioning trailers and containers around the yard and emptying gaylord boxes as required.
  • Perform cleaning duties related to plant equipment and general housekeeping.
  • Assist mechanics in the maintenance of equipment including plant equipment.
  • Interact with customers or drivers to direct or assist them.
  • Perform other tasks and operates & maintains other equipment as required.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School Diploma/GED or may consider 1+ years of heavy equipment operator experience.
  • Must be able to read, write, and perform basic math.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records.
  • Ability to follow oral and written communication.
  • Ability to climb ladders or steps to reach objects.
  • Ability to endure physical and outdoor work on a daily basis.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Work cooperatively with other employees and the public.
  • Must be able to work in an environment where routinely exposed to dust, dirt, vibrations, extreme climate and changes in weather.
  • Pre-Employment background, physical, and hair drug screen required.

Ferrous Processing and Trading is a subsidiary of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., the largest flat-rolled steel company and the largest iron ore pellet producer in North America. Cleveland-Cliffs is vertically integrated from mined raw materials, direct reduced iron, and ferrous scrap to primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package including competitive pay, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off, and more.
Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] or call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.
Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment.
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