Baler Operator

Equipment Operator (Baler Operator)

Job Summary

Mid Valley Disposal is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Equipment Operator (Baler Operator) to support daily operations at our Compost and Transfer Station facilities. This role is critical to maintaining efficient material flow through the operation by safely operating balers and related processing equipment.

In addition to hands-on equipment operation, this position involves basic programming, setup, and troubleshooting of baler systems and control software. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, comfortable working around heavy equipment, and takes pride in keeping operations running smoothly and safely.

This position reports directly to the Production Supervisor, based on assigned worksite.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

General Equipment Operation

• Operate balers and other heavy equipment, including loaders, grinders, screens, excavators, forklifts, and related machinery
• Safely set up, start, adjust, and shut down baler systems
• Perform daily pre- and post-operation equipment inspections
• Clean assigned equipment daily, including removal of debris and cleaning operator cabs
• Follow daily production schedules and operational direction from supervisors
• Maintain required production and quality standards
• Comply with all company safety policies and procedures at all times
• Complete required training and ongoing performance assessments
• Assist with floor sorting and material handling as needed

Baler Programming & System Troubleshooting

• Program and adjust baler operating parameters using control panels and system software
• Monitor system performance through HMIs and onboard displays
• Troubleshoot basic system, sensor, and control issues to reduce downtime
• Identify abnormalities in material flow, bale density, wire/tie systems, and system alerts
• Communicate equipment or system issues clearly to supervisors and maintenance teams
• Assist maintenance personnel with software-based diagnostics when requested

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required

Experience

• Minimum 1 year of experience in recycling, warehouse operations, or baler operation preferred
• Experience operating balers and/or heavy equipment such as loaders, forklifts, or excavators
• Prior experience in waste transfer, recycling, composting, or industrial environments preferred
• Experience working with computerized equipment controls, HMIs, or system interfaces preferred

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to identify operational issues
• Ability to program, adjust, and troubleshoot basic baler system controls
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to adapt to changing site needs and production schedules
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This role involves working in an industrial environment with heavy equipment. Employees must be able to sit, stand, walk, reach, and use hands for equipment operation and controls. Regular exposure to noise, moving machinery, and outdoor conditions is expected. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.