Baler Operator (Matl. Handler)

Smurfit Westrock; Hendersonville (NC); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit WestRock is seeking a Baler/Materials Operator to manage baler room daily operations, load trucks, and maintain 5S standards. Safety is central, with a culture of care and adherence to core values.

The role includes operating balers, stripping, pallet jack use, and performing maintenance while following safety rules. The position requires basic computer skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced team, and the potential to obtain a forklift license.

Qualifications

• Basic computer skills (desired).
• Must be able to work in a fast paced environment and work well with others.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid forklift operator license.
• Must be able to read and comprehend documents such as safety rules, procedures, and work instructions.
• Must have demonstrated mechanical aptitude through work experience.

Responsibilities

• Sets up and utilizes their hands as stripping tool.
• Removes scrap board from die-cut sheets.
• Stacks die-cut blanks on skids for gluer operation.
• Operates power baler to compress scrap board and paper bales.
• Operates pallet jack to move skidded stock into position for stripping.
• Performs routine and preventative maintenance on all assigned equipment.
• Responsible for timely and accurate completion of the quality checklist for each job.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

Skills

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Basic computer skills

Tools

Forklift operator license

Job description

Responsible for daily operations of baler room by waste handling, loading trucks, etc. Maintain housekeeping and 5S to standards set by management. Follow all Smurfit WestRock Core Values and Behaviors. Additional job duties as assigned by department manager.

Safety is at the core of everything we do. The Baler helps reinforce this value by promoting safe practices, supporting a culture of care, and ensuring that all processes and communications reflect our commitment to keeping our employees and customers safe.

Job Responsibilities:

• Sets up and utilizes their hands as stripping tool
• Removes scrap board from die-cut sheets
• Stacks die-cut blanks on skids for gluer operation
• Operates power baler to compress scrap board and paper bales
• Operates pallet jack to move skidded stock into position for stripping
• Performs routine and preventative maintenance on all assigned equipment
• Responsible for timely and accurate completion of the quality checklist for each job
• Performs other job duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Basic computer skills (desired)
• Must be able to work in a fast paced environment and work well with others
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid forklift operator license
• Must be able to read and comprehend documents such as safety rules, procedures, and work instructions
• Must have demonstrated mechanical aptitude through work experience

Physical Requirements :

• Lift up to 25 lbs. regularly, up to 50 lbs intermittently and up to 75 lbs rarely.
• Bend, twist, climb, squat, kneel occasionally throughout the shift.
• Uses hands for simple and power grasping, as well as push, pull and fine manipulation.
• Work at and/or below shoulder level.
• Additional hours above regular scheduled shift may be necessary to cover for absences or vacation days, along with meeting production needs

Essential/Marginal Functions and Physical Requirements

Essential: Band skids, load trucks. Blow down balers and sweep once a shift.

Marginal: Perform daily checklists on forklift, blow out/off motor, radiator and exterior. Keep work area clean.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.