Baler Operator

Position Summary

The Baler Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the baling system and related equipment to process corrugated and paper scrap materials. This position supports production operations through equipment operation, inventory management, housekeeping, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and committed to maintaining a clean and productive work environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate the baler and related equipment to produce quality, properly secured scrap bales.
• Operate the hogger to process unusable paper and corrugated scrap materials.
• Maintain accurate production and bale reporting records.
• Monitor and maintain inventories of baling wire, scrap tags, and finished scrap bales.
• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently as required.
• Identify equipment issues and submit maintenance work orders promptly to minimize downtime.
• Perform routine inspections and support preventative maintenance efforts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company housekeeping standards.
• Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and work instructions.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts by recommending process and operational enhancements.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to perform physical work and follow established procedures and work instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in the corrugated packaging industry.
• Prior experience operating a baler, recycling equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery.
• Forklift operation experience and certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Communication Skills

• Ability to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to accurately complete reports and production documentation.

Mathematical Skills

• Ability to accurately read a tape measure.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations, including measurements, percentages, rates, and volumes.
• Working knowledge of basic high school-level mathematics.

Problem Solving and Reasoning

• Ability to apply common sense and sound judgment when carrying out written, oral, or diagram-based instructions.
• Ability to identify and resolve routine operational issues in a manufacturing environment.

Technical Skills

Working knowledge of:

• Manufacturing equipment operation and safe work practices.
• Production processes and efficiency standards.
• Product quality specifications and quality control requirements.
• Preventative maintenance concepts and equipment care.
• Material handling equipment and warehouse safety procedures.

Certifications and Licenses

• Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification as required.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

• Regularly stand, walk, communicate, and hear throughout the work shift.
• Frequently use hands and arms to handle materials, operate equipment, and perform maintenance tasks.
• Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach.
• Occasionally sit while performing certain tasks.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position.

• Regular exposure to an industrial manufacturing environment with moving mechanical equipment.
• Frequent exposure to dust, humidity, and changing temperatures.
• Occasional exposure to elevated work areas, airborne particles, vibration, and other manufacturing conditions.
• Consistent use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Noise levels are typically high and hearing protection may be required.

Performance Expectations

Success in this position will be measured by performance in the following areas:

Safety

• Demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety and compliance with all safety policies and procedures.
• Maintains an injury-free work environment and proactively identifies and addresses safety concerns.

Quality

• Produces clean, properly constructed bales that meet company quality standards.
• Maintains accurate reporting and inventory records.

Productivity and Efficiency

• Meets or exceeds established production and operational goals.
• Minimizes downtime through proactive equipment monitoring and timely maintenance reporting.

Teamwork and Communication

• Demonstrates professionalism, respect, and effective communication with supervisors and coworkers.
• Contributes positively to team success and plant operations.

Continuous Improvement

• Actively participates in improving processes, reducing waste, and enhancing operational efficiency through constructive suggestions and involvement in improvement initiatives.

Professional Development

• Takes ownership of personal growth and skill development while working toward agreed-upon annual performance goals.