Baler Operator 2nd Shift

Pratt Industries; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Pratt Industries in Valparaiso, IN is seeking a Baler Operator for the 2nd shift (3pm-11pm). The role focuses on safely operating the baler and hogger systems to process scrap paper and corrugated material into high-quality bales.

The position requires adherence to safety, housekeeping, and equipment upkeep standards while supporting production operations. Forklift operation, attention to safety, and good communication for shift handoffs are essential.

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.

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.

Skills

Forklift operation

Safety procedures

Communication

Teamwork

Job description

POSITION TITLE: BALER OPERATOR - 2nd Shift (3pm-11pm)

Starting Wage: $18.70 per hour

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.