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Forklift Baler Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baler Operator

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Goodwill Industries of Tenneva is hiring a Baler to join our Sustainability team! We're looking for ... Prior baling or forklift experience is a plus (but not required) * Ability to bend, push, pull, and ...

Baler Operator

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Goodwill Industries of Tenneva is hiring a Baler to join our Sustainability team! Were looking for ... Prior baling or forklift experience is a plus (but not required) * Ability to bend, push, pull, and ...

Baler Operator (1st shift)

Lebanon Junction, KY ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Baler Operator (We'll Train You!) 1st shift (7am-3pm) | Full-Time | Competitive Pay + Overtime ... Performing daily forklift inspections and completing equipment checklists. * Performing routine ...

Baler Operator 2nd shift Location: Pratt (Beloit Corrugating), LLC - 1405 Gateway Blvd, Beloit, WI ... Prior manufacturing environment and forklift operator experience preferred * Excellent oral and ...

1st Shift Baler Operator

High Point, NC ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Baler Operator Location: High Point, NC Job Type: On-Site Reporting to: Production Supervisor ... Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain) * Basic mechanical knowledge * Ability to lift up ...

Baler Operator

Warner Robins, GA

$12.75 - $16/hr

POSITION TITLE: Baler Operator REPORTS TO: Corrugating Supervisor SUMMARY Responsible for all ... Operate a forklift in a safe manner when necessary. * Turn in maintenance work orders to ...

Baler Operator

Warner Robins, GA ยท On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

POSITION TITLE: Baler Operator REPORTS TO: Corrugating Supervisor SUMMARY Responsible for all ... Operate a forklift in a safe manner when necessary. * Turn in maintenance work orders to ...

Baler Operator 2nd Shift

Beloit, WI ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

Baler Operator 2nd shift Location: Pratt (Beloit Corrugating), LLC - 1405 Gateway Blvd, Beloit, WI ... Prior manufacturing environment and forklift operator experience preferred * Excellent oral and ...

Baler Operator (2nd shift)

Lebanon Junction, KY ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Baler Operator (We'll Train You!) 2nd shift (3pm-11pm)| Full-Time | Competitive Pay + Overtime ... Performing daily forklift inspections and completing equipment checklists. * Performing routine ...

Baler Operator 1

Springfield, OR ยท On-site

$20.74/hr

Baler/Loader Operator 1 Pay Rate : $20.74/hr Category/Shift : Hourly Full-Time Monday - Friday ... Load the baler utilizing either the front loader, skid steer or forklift * Record grade, percentage ...

Baler Operator -2nd Shift

Vandalia, OH ยท On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Able to safely operate forklift to pick up waste pallets and carts. * Identify waste ticket placed ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

1st Shift Baler Operator

High Point, NC ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Baler Operator Location: High Point, NC Job Type: On-Site Reporting to: Production Supervisor ... Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain) * Basic mechanical knowledge * Ability to lift up ...

Baler Operator - 1st Shift

Vandalia, OH ยท On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Able to safely operate forklift to pick up waste pallets and carts. * Identify waste ticket placed ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

Baler Operator

York, PA ยท On-site

$2/hr

Operate safely and within standards manual baler, auto-tie evacuated baler and down-stroke baler ... forklift experience Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities * Safety sensitive position ...

Baler Operator - 3rd Shift

Vandalia, OH

$14 - $17.75/hr

Able to safely operate forklift to pick up waste pallets and carts. * Identify waste ticket placed ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

Baler Operator - 1st Shift

Vandalia, OH

$14 - $17.75/hr

Able to safely operate forklift to pick up waste pallets and carts. * Identify waste ticket placed ... Previous Baler Operator experience preferred. * Professional Attitude & conduct to co-workers ...

Showing results 21-40

Forklift Baler Operator information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do forklift baler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for forklift baler operator in the United States is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forklift baler operator?

A Forklift Baler Operator is a worker who operates both forklifts and baling machines, primarily in warehouses, recycling centers, or manufacturing facilities. Their main responsibilities include safely moving materials using a forklift and operating a baler to compress recyclable materials like cardboard, plastics, or metals into compact bales for easier storage and transport. They must follow safety protocols, inspect equipment regularly, and maintain records of materials handled. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and often a forklift operator certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forklift baler operator?

To thrive as a Forklift Baler Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, a forklift operator certification, and experience in warehouse or recycling environments. Familiarity with forklift machinery, baling equipment, and safety systems such as OSHA regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills help ensure safety and efficiency on the job. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining workplace safety, minimizing equipment downtime, and meeting production targets.

What are some common challenges faced by forklift baler operators in a warehouse setting?

Forklift Baler Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight spaces while maneuvering heavy equipment, ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed, and maintaining efficiency during high-volume periods. They must also stay attentive to equipment maintenance and promptly address any mechanical issues to prevent downtime. Collaborating effectively with team members and communicating clearly about material flow are essential for smooth operations and safety.

What is the difference between Forklift Baler Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectForklift Baler OperatorMaterial Handler
CertificationsForklift license, Baler operation trainingForklift license often preferred, general warehouse training
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, recycling centers, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, distribution centers, shipping areas
Job FocusOperating balers and forklifts to compress recyclablesMoving, storing, and organizing materials

Forklift Baler Operators primarily focus on operating balers and forklifts to process recyclables, requiring specific certifications. Material Handlers handle a broader range of material movement tasks in warehouse settings, often with general forklift experience. Both roles are essential in warehouse and recycling industries but differ in specific duties and certification requirements.

More about Forklift Baler Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Forklift Baler Operator jobs? Cities with the most Forklift Baler Operator job openings:
What states have the most Forklift Baler Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Forklift Baler Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forklift Baler Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,097 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Baler Operator

Goodwill Industries of Tenneva, inc.

Kingsport, TN โ€ข On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Are you dependable, safety-minded, and ready to do hands-on work that supports a meaningful mission? Do you want a job where your effort directly supports sustainability and job training in your community?


 Goodwill Industries of Tenneva is hiring a Baler to join our Sustainability team!


We’re looking for team members who are focused, reliable, and able to stay on task in a production environment. If you enjoy physical work, following clear procedures, and contributing to a team that keeps operations moving efficiently, this role may be a great fit.


What You’ll Do

  • Operate the baler safely and efficiently following established procedures
  • Process cardboard, clothing, plastics, and other materials into bales
  • Meet daily production quotas
  • Load, distribute, and compact materials evenly in the baler
  • Secure completed bales properly with wire
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the baler and surrounding work area
  • Monitor equipment condition and report concerns immediately
  • Follow all safety guidelines and remain alert to coworkers at all times
  • Support sustainability goals through consistent, quality work
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Sustainability


What We’re Looking For

  • Ability to understand and follow instructions
  • Basic math, reading, and paperwork skills
  • Strong focus and ability to stay on task
  • Independent decision-making when needed
  • Team-oriented attitude and flexibility
  • Prior baling or forklift experience is a plus (but not required)
  • Ability to bend, push, pull, and lift throughout the shift
  • Comfortable working in a physical, production-based environment


Working Conditions

  • Physically active role with exposure to heat, noise, and odors
  • Requires standing, bending, lifting, and pushing materials regularly
  • Safety is a top priority—clean, hazard-free work areas are required at all times


Why Join Goodwill Tenneva?

  • A meaningful mission — your work supports sustainability, employment, and job training
  • Supportive team environment
  • Opportunities to learn new skills and grow
  • Stable, mission-driven organization


At Goodwill Industries of Tenneva, every bale supports a bigger purpose. Join a team where your work truly makes a difference.


Apply today and be part of something bigger than just a job.

Goodwill Industries of Tenneva is an Equal Opportunity Employer.