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Baler Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Kraft Heinz

6 Utility Operator - Filling

New Ulm, MN

$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 ...

Aldi

Store Manager in Training

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$121K/yr

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... baler. • Ability to work in varying temperatures, hot and cold (including outdoor temperatures ...

Aldi

Retail Store Manager Trainee

Baxter, MN

$111K/yr

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... baler. • Ability to work in varying temperatures, hot and cold (including outdoor temperatures ...

Aldi

Store Manager in Training

Baxter, MN

$111K/yr

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... baler. • Ability to work in varying temperatures, hot and cold (including outdoor temperatures ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Associate

Grand Rapids, MN · On-site

$18.50/hr

... baler, pallet jacks, handheld devices, computers, etc. • Ability to interpret and apply ALDI operating policies and procedures. • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Associate

Little Canada, MN · On-site

$19/hr

... baler, pallet jacks, handheld devices, computers, etc. • Ability to interpret and apply ALDI operating policies and procedures. • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Manager Trainee

Dilworth, MN

$111K/yr

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... baler. • Ability to work in varying temperatures, hot and cold (including outdoor temperatures ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Associate

Winona, MN

$18.50/hr

... baler, pallet jacks, handheld devices, computers, etc. • Ability to interpret and apply ALDI operating policies and procedures. • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Associate

Marshall, MN

$18/hr

... baler, pallet jacks, handheld devices, computers, etc. • Ability to interpret and apply ALDI operating policies and procedures. • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing ...

Aldi

Retail Management Trainee

Rochester, MN

$112K/yr

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... baler. • Ability to work in varying temperatures, hot and cold (including outdoor temperatures ...

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Baler Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

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How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,790 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
6 Utility Operator - Regular Slice

6 Utility Operator - Regular Slice

Kraft Heinz Company

New Ulm, MN • On-site

$27.68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 396 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Hourly manufacturing positionJob Description
Utility Operator Regular Slice
New Ulm Plant
Benefits & Compensation Overview:
  • Full benefit package (Medical, Dental, Vision, HAS)
  • Company matched 401K (6%)
  • Additional perks: Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), access to shop at the Company Store.
  • Paid vacation, sick and major holidays
  • Utility Operator position wage $27.68/hr
  • Annual bonus (potential 3.5% annual salary).
  • $1.00/hr shift premium

Work Schedule:
Midnight 3rd shift position.
Plant & Community Overview:
Plant Overview:
  • The Kraft Heinz Plant in New Ulm has been a workplace of choice in the community since its opening in 1955. Current products include Velveeta, Velveeta Mini-Block, Kraft Deli-Deluxe, and Foodservice for popular restaurant chains.
  • 400 Hourly Employees.
  • 23 Salaried Employees.
  • Average tenured employee is 12 years of service.
  • Over 125 employees have more than 20 years of service.
  • There is over 5,000 years of experience in the New Ulm Plant!

Community Overview:
Welcome to our New Ulm Community!
Job Overview:
At our New Ulm location, we make processed cheese. The work here is fast paced, and we reward hard work and strong performance. The greater your performance, the more opportunities you will have to work your way up in the company. The Utility Operator is responsible for many different facets of production in their scope of responsibility. They must work with minimum supervision, be able to do simple mathematics of addition and subtraction and work with brief verbal and simple written instructions. They must have complete knowledge of a production schedule and be able to relieve all operators for breaks and operate all equipment efficiently and safely to produce a quality product. Their job is moderately varied, involving many medium complex tasks; each can be learned within a few months. Communication is a key factor with a good understanding of supplies. This person is a member of our Regular Slice Team and is very quality conscious.
Responsibilities & Duties:
  • Check schedule for product running and changes in production.
  • Haul supplies and wrappers to designated areas with hand truck/fork truck. Pre-staging and record lot number on record sheet for quality completion by operators.
  • Help string and align ribbons on start-ups and changeovers.
  • Change filters at designated times - take to wash area.
  • Assist in labeling.
  • Assist in all changeovers with cheese, aligning ribbons, and supplies and casing set up.
  • Return supplies to storage when other line goes down.
  • Keep track of rework crews, bring product to crews, remove full pallets, and track all paperwork and tickets.
  • Assist in training of employees.
  • Relieve employees for breaks.
  • Assist with simple adjustments.
  • Put cheese from filter clean up on cart and put cart on elevator.
  • Haul cardboard to baler, when baler is full need to make a bale.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma/GED Preferred.
  • Previous Manufacturing Experience Preferred.
  • Seeking individuals who work well with teams, are goal oriented, and enjoy satisfaction in performing a job well done.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds frequently, and up to 100 pounds infrequently, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
New Ulm Plant
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com

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