Baler

LRS; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Lakeshore Recycling Systems is seeking a Baler / MRF Sorter to operate baling equipment and assist on the sorting line in a fast-paced recycling facility in Chicago. The role emphasizes mechanical aptitude, safety awareness, and ability to work on physical tasks in a team setting.

Responsibilities include operating baler machinery, sorting materials, labeling outputs, and maintaining equipment while adhering to PPE and safety procedures. On-the-job training is provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience operating a baler or in a recycling/MRF environment is a plus.
• Willing to complete on-the-job training for safe equipment operation.

Responsibilities

• Operate baler to compress recyclable materials into tightly bound bales.
• Monitor baler operation, clear jams, and ensure safe, continuous operation.
• Label, tag, and record bales by material type and weight.
• Sort recyclables on the sorting line by material type.
• Remove non-recyclables or contaminated items from the sorting stream.
• Inspect and maintain baler equipment; report mechanical issues promptly.
• Follow safety protocols and wear PPE at all times.
• Support overall cleanliness and organization of the facility.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the MRF Supervisor.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Safety-focused

Manual dexterity

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Baler equipment

Job description

LRS is the industry leader in providing innovative and environmentally responsibly waste and recycling solutions. Our team delivers exceptional service and value through relentless commitment to customer satisfaction and preservation of the environment. Through our safe and innovative approach to waste diversion, LRS thrives on the passion and innovation of our employees to preserve and sustain the beauty of the towns, neighborhoods and communities that we serve. We are excited to hire candidates that align with our Vision and Values: To become the safest, most innovative waste recycler in the world by redefining the way the world views waste.

Live Safety

• Serve With Passion
• Innovate Relentlessly
• Engage With Integrity
• Build Community
• Be Accountable, The Baler is responsible for operating baling equipment to compact recyclable materials into bales for transport and resale, while also assisting on the sorting line to separate and organize recyclables by material type. This dual-role position supports overall plant efficiency, safety, and product quality. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, safety-focused, and willing to take on physical, hands-on tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Reports To

MRF Manager

Essential Job Duties

• Operate baler equipment to compress recyclable materials into tightly bound bales.
• Monitor baler operation, including clearing jams and ensuring safe, continuous operation.
• Label, tag, and record bales accurately by material type and weight.
• Manually sort recyclable materials on the sorting line by type (e.g., cardboard, plastics, metals).
• Remove non-recyclable or contaminated items from the sorting stream.
• Inspect and maintain baler equipment; report any mechanical issues promptly.
• Follow safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Support overall cleanliness and organization of the facility.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the MRF Supervisor.

Scope Of Responsibility

This position directly affects the quality and marketability of sorted recyclable materials and the efficiency of MRF operations. The Baler / MRF Sorter works under supervision but is expected to work independently with attention to equipment safety and material accuracy. Mistakes can impact productivity, machine function, and output quality.

Knowledge And Skill Requirements

• Familiarity with baler equipment or other industrial machinery preferred.
• Basic understanding of recyclable materials and sorting procedures.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Good problem-solving and mechanical skills for basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Strong work ethic, teamwork, and attention to safety.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience operating a baler or working in a recycling/MRF facility is a plus.
• Must be willing to complete on-the-job training for safe equipment operation.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking, lifting (up to 75 lbs.), and repetitive hand movements.
• Exposure to loud machinery, dust, odors, and fluctuating indoor/outdoor temperatures.
• Must be comfortable working in a physically demanding industrial setting.
• PPE must be worn at all times as required by facility policies.

Travel Required

• No travel is required for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Lakeshore Recycling Systems is proud to be an equal-opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please [e-mail].

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear
• Occasionally required to stand and walk
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

$20