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Baler Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... Waste Operator-Lead Unit IUOE Local No. 49-Solid Waste Supervises N/A FLSA Status Non-exempt ... Operate heavy/off-road equipment (packer truck, hook-lift truck, compactor, baler, backhoe, dozer ...

Utility Operator New Ulm Plant Benefits & Compensation Overview: * Full benefit package (Medical ... Haul cardboard to baler, when baler is full need to make a bale. Qualifications: * High School ...

Forklift Operator

Owatonna, MN · 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 ...

Solid Waste Attendant

Park Rapids, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Work experience operating heavy equipment (i.e. baler, backhoe, loader, semi, forklift, skidsteer, telehandler) and mechanical background. * Work experience in customer * OSHA HAZMAT * Forklift ...

Maintenance Assistant

Chaska, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/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 Minnesota salary details

$7

$15

$21

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Minnesota is $15.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.64 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.

What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Baler Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in MN? For Baler Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Minnesota 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 $32,790 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

1st Shift Forklift Operator - Baler Operator

Liberty Diversified International, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN

$22.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

 As a Forklift - Baler Machine Operator I with Liberty Packaging, you will contribute to the growth of our business by being a key player in safely producing quality corrugated products for our customers.  You will work within a small group, and as an operator you will help be a leader within your crew to maximize machine efficiencies by setting up orders correctly, performing quality checks and communicating issues.  This full-time position reports directly to a Production Supervisor and is located at our Brooklyn Park, MN, manufacturing facility.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate machine by setting up orders according to customer specifications, following order readiness process of efficiently preparing the right tools to complete the job.
  • Perform quality checks by inspecting a first article, and articles throughout the order to identify errors, ensuring quality product along with monitoring equipment and raw materials.
  • Enter production metrics into a computer electronic system to accurately track progress of production rates, quality, maintenance, and downtime.
  • Proactively communicate issues with equipment to appropriate leaders, trouble shoot issues, and problem solve individually and as a team to maximize overall equipment efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Provides guidance and assistance to Assistant Machine Operators, as needed.
  • Intermittently assist with minor repairs to equipment in partnership with maintenance team.  
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area by following post order cleaning process.
  • Follow plant safety processes and procedures outlined for the machine center. 
  • Other duties, as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited institution AND 2+ years of work experience within a manufacturing environment OR 3+ years manufacturing or comparable experience in place of education.
  • Previous experience with computers, including typing, printing, and data entry.
  • Previous experience applying math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. 
  • Previous experience reading, following, and/or completing detailed work instructions.
  • Must be available to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as required. 

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

  • Experience with reading a tape measure to within 1/16” measurement.
  • Experience within the corrugated or paper industry
  • Experience with operational excellence or continuous improvement programs – Lean 6 Sigma, Kaizen Events

 

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The starting pay rate for this position is $22.77 per hour, plus hourly shift differential pay (If applicable). The compensation posted is the anticipated pay for the position at the time of the posting. We may pay above or below posted amount based on several factors, including, but not limited to education and/or certifications, skills, experience, or work location.  Some positions may qualify for additional compensation in the form of bonuses.

At LDI, we are pleased to provide employees with a comprehensive benefits package including health/dental/vision insurance options; paid time off; 10 paid holidays; 401(k) plus company matching and annual discretionary profit sharing; flexible spending and health savings account options; life and disability insurance; tuition assistance; wellness and mental health resources, and financial advising services.  Eligibility in benefit programs is based on hours worked per week.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to lift up-to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environment
  • Must be able to work in crowded spaces for 4+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to bend and stoop for 7+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to stand for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to walk for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to reach and grasp up to 6+ hours per shift

ABOUT OUR COMPANY:

Comprised of multiple companies with headquarters in New Hope, Minnesota, Liberty Diversified International (LDI) is a privately held company employing more than 1,900 individuals across our manufacturing facilities, production facilities and core business operations in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, California, and Mexico. With deep roots in the corrugated box manufacturing industry, we operate in the core markets of paper, packaging, workplace products, corrugated plastics and building products.

Since 1918, our values – Caring, Innovation, Trust and Excellence – have guided our day-to-day activities. We believe that when our employees are aligned with these values, we create superior solutions and service for our customers. The LDI family of companies includes Liberty Packaging, Liberty Paper, Liberty Plastics (Custom Solutions and Quarrix Building Products) and Safco.

Liberty Diversified International is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, disability, or any other protected class.