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Baler Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Luckey, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Operate EPJ, scrubber, tugger, forklift, and baler and handle all equipment correctly and safely ... Prior experience operating warehouse and cleaning equipment preferred. * Frequent lifting, carrying ...

Equipment Operator

Luckey, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Operate EPJ, scrubber, tugger, forklift, and baler and handle all equipment correctly and safely ... Prior experience operating warehouse and cleaning equipment preferred. * Frequent lifting, carrying ...

Showing results 21-40

Baler Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$6

$15

$20

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Ohio is $15.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.16 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 Ohio? For Baler Operator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in OH? For Baler Operator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Ohio 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 $31,828 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing job training, employment placement, and support services for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. With a focus on empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and inclusion in the community, Ohio Valley Goodwill has been serving the Greater Cincinnati area for over 100 years.
POSITION SUMMARY: (WHAT, HOW, WHY)
The Warehouse Team Lead supports Goodwill’s mission of sustainability and environmental stewardship by overseeing the safe and efficient processing of donated goods within the warehouse. This role ensures that re‑sellable items are handled properly to support programs benefiting individuals with disabilities and veterans. The Team Lead is responsible for training new team members, maintaining quality control standards, and coordinating daily workflow to meet production and safety goals.

This position requires forklift certification and baler operator training, enabling the Lead to step into various operational roles as needed. The Team Lead sets up daily work areas, assigns staff to appropriate stations, and provides guidance on loading, unloading, and dock operations.

Must be able to pass drug test and random testing. Previous conviction of dangerous or violent crimes will exclude applicant from job.

This is a Safety-Sensitive Job and Substance Free

This is a safety-sensitive role because of the risks involved, it requires high level of responsibility and attention to detail. Under this role, employees agree to comply with the substance-free policy. There is zero-tolerance in place for substance use or impairment

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION: None

EXPERIENCE: Prior warehouse work experience preferred, assigning work and leading a team experience preferred. Forklift and Baler experience preferred but will train and certify.

ESSENTIAL JOB SKILLS: Attention to detail/quality control, Effective Communication Skills, Problem Solving skills, Basic Math Skills, training skills.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • Setup work area for the day including trash disposal stations, balers, and trailer placement.
  • Assign employee to correct station, disposing of trash or working dock door.
  • Provide training to new employees in loading and unloading of donated goods.
  • Daily quality checks to ensure received gaylords have proper tags from stores and donation sites.
  • Complete any required production sheets or reports for supervisor.
  • Backup other warehouse leads as needed.
  • Overtime on nights or weekends as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Working in a warehouse setting
  • Prolonged standing, repetitive walking, sitting
  • Lifting/pushing/pulling 50+ lbs

We offer competitive pay and benefits including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability
  • Paid Vacation and Sick
  • Paid Holidays
  • 403(b) with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program

This is the ideal job for those individuals seeking life enrichment opportunities.
If you’re looking for a rewarding, fulfilling experience, please join our team!!
Please complete application and attach resume with detailed work experience. Incomplete applications will not be considered for the position.
EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled



6:30 AM–3:00 PM, with possible evening OT. Days are variable, and weekends are required.