Baler Operator 1st Shift

POSITION TITLE:  BALER OPERATOR - 1st Shift 7am - 3pm

REPORTS TO: Corrugator Supervisor / Lead

Overview
The Baler Operator is responsible for safely operating the baler and hogger systems to process scrap paper and corrugated material into neat, high-quality bales. This role requires attention to safety, housekeeping, and equipment upkeep while supporting production operations.

Key Duties & Responsibilities
Operate and Monitor Equipment
Operate the hogger and feed scrap safely into the system.
Run the baler to produce neat, consistent bales.
Watch for jams, stop equipment immediately if needed, and notify supervision or maintenance.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures before clearing jams or performing checks.

Safety & Compliance
Follow all company and OSHA safety rules, including use of PPE (gloves required in the baler room).
Never place hands or body parts in the baler or hogger areas.
Maintain awareness of forklift traffic, sound horn at cross-aisles, and drive cautiously when loading trailers.
Keep exits and walkways clear at all times.

Daily Operation & Housekeeping
Inspect baler and hogger area at the start of each shift; report issues to supervision.
Keep floors swept and free of wire, trash, or debris.
Bale and remove scrap as required, stacking bales correctly in trailers.
Maintain accurate bale reports and ensure scrap is tagged properly.

Shift Handoffs & Clean-Up
Communicate problems and concerns with incoming operator at shift change.
Clear scrap from behind ram, sweep and blow down baler and hogger, and empty trash cans.
Refuel forklift to at least half a tank before turnover.

Supplies & Maintenance
Monitor and maintain inventories of baling wire, tags, and supplies.
Turn in maintenance work orders for needed repairs; be proactive in reporting issues.
Assist with weekend clean-up by emptying buggies, baling remaining scrap, and dusting walls and support beams.

Other Duties
Perform additional tasks as assigned by management.

Qualifications
Ability to operate forklifts safely.
Strong attention to safety procedures and housekeeping standards.
Good communication skills for shift handoffs and teamwork.
Willingness to work in an industrial environment with dust, noise, and heavy equipment.

Pratt Industries is America’s 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 6,500 highly skilled employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than a dozen states. The company operates three of the most modern, cost-effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by “harvesting the urban forest."

Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.