Forklift Driver/Baler Operator

Hood-Container-1; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay & benefits

Career growth

Supportive culture

Stable & growing industry

Job summary

Hood Container Corporation in Chicago, IL is seeking a reliable, safety‑minded Baler/Forklift Operator to join our production team. You will operate a baler to compress scrap into bales and drive a forklift to move bales, materials, and finished goods across the facility.

The role requires at least 1 year of forklift experience, a valid forklift certification, and a commitment to safety. Competitive hourly pay with shift differential and a comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of forklift experience in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Baler or material handling experience in corrugated packaging is a plus.
• Valid forklift certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Operate a baler to compress corrugated scrap into recyclable bales.
• Safely drive a forklift to move bales, raw materials, and finished goods across the facility.
• Maintain clean and organized production areas by removing scrap and debris regularly.
• Label and weigh bales accurately and document scrap activity.
• Conduct routine checks on baler and forklift equipment and report maintenance needs.
• Support the production team with material handling and movement as required.
• Follow Hood Container and OSHA safety protocols, including PPE use and safe driving practices.
• Assist with general warehouse or production support duties as assigned.

Skills

Forklift experience

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Safety procedures knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full-time Regular Chicago, IL, US

Salary Range: $19.45 To $19.45 Hourly

Who We’re Looking For

Hood Container Corporation is seeking a reliable and safety-driven Baler/Forklift Operator to join our production team in Chicago, IL. If you have experience operating a forklift, managing recyclable materials, and thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we want to hear from you!

The hourly rate is $19.45 + Shift Differential

What You’ll Do

• Operate a baler machine to compress corrugated scrap into recyclable bales.
• Safely drive a forklift to move bales, raw materials, and finished goods across the facility.
• Maintain clean and organized production areas by removing scrap and debris regularly.
• Label and weigh bales accurately and document scrap activity.
• Conduct routine checks on baler and forklift equipment and report any maintenance needs.
• Support the production team with material handling and movement as required.
• Follow Hood Container and OSHA safety protocols, including PPE use and safe driving practices.
• Assist with general warehouse or production support duties as assigned.

What You Bring

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 1+ year of forklift experience in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.
• Baler or material handling experience in corrugated packaging is a plus.

Technical Skills:

• Valid forklift certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Basic knowledge of machine operations and safety procedures.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, labels, and safety signs.
• Good organizational and communication skills.

Physical & Work Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as bending, walking, and standing for long periods.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with noise, dust, and fluctuating temperatures.
• Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, or different shifts as needed.

Why You’ll Love Working at Hood Container:

• Competitive Pay & Benefits: We offer hourly pay based on experience, shift differentials, and a full benefits package to support your health and wellness. Learn more at www.hoodcontainer.com/benefits .
• Career Growth: Gain on-the-job training and opportunities to grow in your career within the packaging industry.
• Supportive Culture: Be part of a team that values your work, safety, and contributions to shared success.
• Stable & Growing Industry: Work with a company that’s committed to sustainability and continued national growth.

Our Mission & Vision

• Mission: We deliver indispensable value through safety, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring success for our customers, employees, and communities.
• Vision: A unified culture that drives creative customer solutions and industry-leading excellence.