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Baler Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Milan, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an ... Operate the Baler Operation. * Assist in nonferrous processing; including segregation of materials ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Milan, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an ... Operate the Baler Operation. * Assist in nonferrous processing; including segregation of materials ...

AK Steel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

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

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Maintenance Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/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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All JobsBaler Operator JobsBaler Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Baler Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$14

$19

How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in Tennessee is $14.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.35 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 Tennessee? For Baler Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Baler Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Baler Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs in TN? For Baler Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Baler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in Tennessee 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 $30,386 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Gerdau

Milan, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Gerdau rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

409th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

At Gerdau, we empower our people to grow, thrive, and make a difference-together. With a culture built on trust and teamwork, we offer meaningful work, continuous development, and opportunities to shape your future. We invite you to come work with us, where your contributions are valued, your voice is heard, and your career is forged with purpose
Job Summary:
The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an important part of operational needs. The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and non-ferrous purchasing, mobile equipment operation, and performing general maintenance duties.
The Yard Operator will be expected to safely operate a material handling crane or loader in order to accomplish daily tasks. They must communicate regularly with the scale, supervisor, other coworkers, and customers about the quality of material and shipping requirements.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  1. Follow all established Gerdau Safety, Environmental, and Routine procedures specific to the yard.
  2. Work involves a variety of tasks, simple through moderately complex in nature, requiring some care to ensure correct procedures are being followed.
  3. Ensure that all incoming scrap is scanned for radiation and that all material that fails the scan is quarantined and the appropriate personnel are notified.
  4. Operate the loader and/or the material handler to assist in loading and unloading scrap material, while following the quality standards of Gerdau and the customer.
  5. Ensure that all incoming scrap inspected against quality, and environmental standards and appropriate deductions and downgrades are applied. Communicate findings with the scale in a timely manner.
  6. Inspect and verify scrap for grade and quality. Identify deductions and downgrades.
  7. Ensure that all outbound materials meets safety and quality standards.
  8. Perform and document daily Routine Equipment Care (REC).
  9. Detect and report faulty material, environmental hazards, safety, and/or improper operation of plant equipment or machinery; refer questionable and unusual matters to proper supervision. Maintain work area and equipment in a clear and orderly fashion.
  10. Provide excellent customer service.
  11. Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau.
  12. Participation in daily safety routine.

Locations with Rail:
  1. For Operations that have rail; shift full and empty cars, operate locomotive, activate switches, couple and uncouple cars, and set brakes or wheel blocks as requested, in accordance with standard operating procedures.

Additional Responsibilities:
  1. Assist in monthly inventory counts (where applicable)
  2. Assist maintenance personnel in the performance of equipment repairs as required or directed.
  3. Operate the Baler Operation.
  4. Assist in nonferrous processing; including segregation of materials to upgrade products. For example: Copper, Brass, Aluminum, etc.
  5. Assist co-workers in daily operational duties that are essential to the yard in terms of safety, efficiency, and profitability.
  6. Stage and remove material for torching with a material handler (where applicable).
  7. Problem solving input and contributions as required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Qualifications and Experience:
  1. Desire to enhance skills and knowledge to develop as a Gerdau employee
  2. Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau
  3. High School Education preferred.

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.
If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com

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