ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Baler Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Hubbard County

Solid Waste Operator I

Park Rapids, MN · On-site

... 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 ...

Hubbard County

Solid Waste Operator I

Park Rapids, MN · On-site

... 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 ...

Kraft Heinz

6 Utility Operator - Filling

New Ulm, MN · On-site

$27.68/hr

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 ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

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 ...

Rice County, MN

Equipment Operator

Faribault, MN · On-site

$24.17 - $33.83/hr

The Operator determines the disposition of each class of recycling material and transports, loads ... Baler * Forklift * Tool Cat * Skid Loader * Rolloff Truck * Other * None of the Above 09 If you ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

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 ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBaler Operator JobsBaler Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Baler Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$7

$15

$21

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

More about Baler Operator jobs

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 job categories do people searching Baler Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Baler Operator jobs in Minnesota 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:

Baler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,790 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Solid Waste Operator I

Hubbard County

Park Rapids, MN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Department Solid Waste
Classification Grade 8
Reports to Solid Waste Supervisor
Solid Waste Administrator
Solid Waste Operator-Lead
Unit IUOE Local No. 49-Solid Waste
Supervises N/A
FLSA Status Non-exempt
Position Description
Service a route for collection and deliveries of recyclables and organics, including loading, unloading, and sorting. Responsible for accepting and properly disposing of incoming waste to the Hubbard County transfer stations, household hazardous waste areas, demolition landfill areas, reuse center, and recycling center. Maintain buildings, equipment, and grounds of the facilities. Follow state and federal regulatory compliance and guidelines for the facilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Service a route for collection of recyclables and organics including loading, unloading and sorting.
  • Haul recyclables, organics, municipal solid waste (MSW), household hazardous waste (HHW), and other materials as needed.
  • Accept incoming recyclables, waste; inspect loads, including identifying HHW; assist with unloading.
  • Properly sort, bale, and store recyclables in designated areas and containers; sort, store or package, document quantities and type of HHW, including electronics, lights, batteries, and prepare for shipment; sort and track materials for reuse, assist with loading and distribution of reuse materials.
  • Communicate with the public, businesses, and recycling facilities regarding pickups, deliveries, shipments; direct traffic to appropriate sites for disposal of waste, recycling, HHW, and reuse.
  • Charge contractors and out-of-county users fees and issue Provide customer service in person, by telephone, or email.
  • Operate the weigh scale, including processing tickets and payments.
  • Operate heavy/off-road equipment (packer truck, hook-lift truck, compactor, baler, backhoe, dozer, loader, semi, forklift, skid steer, telehandler, material handler, horizontal grinder), including empty transfer station dumpsters; unload and load trucks; compact, cover and slope demolition waste.
  • Maintain heavy off-road equipment, including detailed service, maintenance, and inspection logs on all equipment and fueling stations (diesel, propane, ).
  • Maintain facilities buildings and grounds, including snow removal, building upkeep, general cleaning, mowing, weed whipping, etc. and recycling areas (scrap metal, tires, fluorescent tubes, waste oil/filters, concrete, brush, electronics).

Qualifications and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Minimum qualifications
  • High school graduate or equivalent and 2 years work experience operating heavy equipment (i.e. compactor, baler, backhoe, dozer, loader, garbage truck, semi, forklift, skid steer, telehandler, material handler, hook-lift truck) and mechanical background; Or 4 years work experience operating heavy equipment (i.e. compactor, baler, backhoe, dozer, loader, garbage truck, semi, forklift, skid steer, telehandler, material handler, hook-lift truck) and mechanical background.
  • Class A commercial driver's license (CDL) with air brakes;

Or Class B CDL and must obtain Class A CDL with air brakes within 6 months of hire.
  • Successfully pass a pre-placement screen, contingent upon a job
  • Successfully pass a pre-placement-controlled substance test (under the Federal Drug and Alcohol Testing law) and completion of Release of Information 49 CFR Part 40 (40.25, as amended) 301, contingent upon a job offer.
  • Obtain Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Type III Solid Waste Facility Operator Certification within 6 months of
  • Complete OSHA Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) training within 1 year of

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge: General maintenance of heavy and light equipment. Area of operation and familiarity with roads and highways. Hazardous waste identification and handling. Adhere to all laws, statutes, policies and rules with the essential level of confidentiality and safety required of the position.
Skills: Work safely using heavy equipment around public traffic. Record keeping for load documentation, billing, receipts, maintenance records, etc. Proficient in using automated systems relevant to the position. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with all stakeholders relevant to the position. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills, accuracy, and problem solving.
Abilities: Work a flexible schedule. Work in heavy traffic areas, extreme weather conditions, fast-paced environment, independently. Complete job tasks in a timely manner with frequent interruptions, multi-task, detail oriented. Establish and maintain effective working relationships. Follow established procedures and directives from supervisors.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Class A CDL with air
  • MPCA Type III Solid Waste Facility Operator
  • OSHA HAZMAT training
  • Work experience, beyond the minimum qualification, operating heavy equipment (i.e. compactor, baler, backhoe, dozer, loader, garbage truck, semi, forklift, skid steer, telehandler, material handler, hook-lift truck, horizontal grinder) and mechanical background.
  • Forklift certification.

Physical Requirements
To view the Functional Job Analysis, click here.
Note (Management Right)
The above position description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department. Regular attendance on the job and the performance of other duties as assigned are required. The County retains the discretion to add or change the contents of this position description at any time.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply