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Baler Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baler Operator

Alliance, OH ยท On-site

$17/hr

Massillon Mancan is assisting a local Navarre Company who is looking for Baler Operator. This will be a 1st shift position from 6:00 am-2:30 pm Monday through Friday. Must be able to lift 50lbs and ...

Massillon Mancan is assisting a local Navarre Company who is looking for Baler Operator. This will be a 1st shift position from 6:00 am-2:30 pm Monday through Friday. Must be able to lift 50lbs and ...

Baler Operator

Gary, IN

$15 - $18.75/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Plainfield, NJ ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

General Information Job ID ATR59920 Posting Job Title Baler Operator Locations NJ S Plainfield Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 07-Jul-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements ...

Baler Operator

Wapakoneta, OH ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC ยท On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Baldwyn, MS ยท On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Loads scrap foam, skins, and/or fabric into baler. * Continually supplies baling machine with scrap and ensures that finished bales are properly pack and contained with strapping wire. * Keeps ...

Baler Operator

Akron, OH ยท On-site

$17/hr

Massillon Mancan is assisting a local Navarre Company who is looking for Baler Operator. This will be a 1st shift position from 6:00 am-2:30 pm Monday through Friday. Must be able to lift 50lbs and ...

Baler Operator

Canton, OH ยท On-site

$17/hr

Massillon Mancan is assisting a local Navarre Company who is looking for Baler Operator. This will be a 1st shift position from 6:00 am-2:30 pm Monday through Friday. Must be able to lift 50lbs and ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC

$13 - $16.25/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Gary, IN ยท On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. * Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC

$13 - $16.25/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem solving ...

Massillon Mancan is assisting a local Navarre Company who is looking for Baler Operator. This will be a 1st shift position from 6:00 am-2:30 pm Monday through Friday. Must be able to lift 50lbs and ...

Baler Operator

Conroe, TX

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Texas Tissue Converting - Conroe, TX Full-Time | 2/2/3 Rotational Shifts Texas Tissue Converting is looking for a dependable and safety-focused Baler Operator to join our Production team. In this ...

Baler Operator

Rock Hill, SC ยท On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers, supervisors and the general public at all times. Multi-task, interpersonal communication, problem solving ...

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Baler Operator information

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How much do baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for baler operator in the United States is $16.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 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.

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Who are the top companies hiring for Baler Operator jobs? The top employers for Baler Operator jobs are:
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What are popular job titles related to Baler Operator jobs? For Baler Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Baler Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,479 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Baler Operator

$15.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio is seeking a Baler Operator to join our team at our East Cleveland warehouse!

In this role, you will operate the baler and tie off baled textiles, following established operating procedures and safety standards. Responsible for conveying 275-500 lb. Gaylords are transported from the warehouse to the baler area and convey bales weighing more than 1,130 lbs. to the shipping area. Assist in the operation of the dock area and in transporting material.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Load the baler in a manner that is highly efficient and safe.
  • Ensure that only appropriate textile pieces are being baled by removing any other items.
  • Work with the lead baler to maintain equipment, reports, and the quality of bales.
  • Keep the baler room, dock area, and warehouse clean, orderly, and operating safely.
  • Adhere to agency safety/security policies, procedures, and practices. Wear required personal protective equipment.
  • Place specific trash in a regular or metal dumpster or compactor as designated.
  • Other relevant duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Specific Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • Tow motor experience preferred
  • Ability to judge distance, speed, and movement of objects

Basic Requirements:

  • High School diploma
  • Must be able to perform physical requirements of the position including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping/bending, crouching/squatting, bilateral reaching all levels: bilateral handling and fingering, fine fingering and simple grasping ability; occasional sitting and kneeling; frequent lift/carry up to 10 lbs., occasional lift/carry 51-100 lbs.; frequent push/pull up to 500 lbs. at varying distances. Indoor/outdoor conditions.
  • Safety toe footwear is preferred but not required.
  • Safety-sensitive position that is subject to random drug testing.

This is a full-time hourly position with offered benefits of Health, Dental, Vision, Voluntary Term Life, Retirement, and Paid Time Off.

Goodwill is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Background check required.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro