The Machine Operator is responsible for operating a baling machine to process recycled plastic materials into compact, secure bundles for storage, transportation, and further processing. This position requires attention to safety, product quality, equipment operation, and maintaining an organized work area.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Operate the baling machine safely and efficiently to compress recycled plastic materials into finished bales.
• Feed and prepare recycled plastic materials for processing according to established procedures.
• Monitor the baler during operation to ensure proper compression, tying/wrapping, and bale formation.
• Secure completed bales using the appropriate wire, straps, or wrapping materials.
• Inspect finished bales for proper size, weight, shape, and stability.
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or production issues to the supervisor.
• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of the baler and surrounding work area.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and free of unnecessary materials and hazards.
• Safely move and stage completed bales using appropriate material-handling equipment, when required.
• Follow company procedures for sorting and handling different types of recycled plastic.
• Maintain accurate production or bale-count records as required.
• Follow all company safety policies, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Work cooperatively with other production and recycling personnel to meet daily production goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
• Previous experience operating industrial machinery, recycling equipment, or a baler is preferred but not required.
• Ability to learn and follow equipment operating procedures.
• Ability to recognize basic equipment or safety issues and communicate them promptly.
• Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks in a production environment.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials as required by the position.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to workplace safety and proper equipment operation.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
• Ability to lift and move materials as required.
• Ability to work around industrial machinery, recycled materials, dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including safety footwear, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and other equipment as required.
Work Environment
This position works primarily in a recycling and production facility around industrial equipment and recycled plastic materials. The environment may be noisy and may include dust, debris, moving machinery, and varying temperatures. Employees are expected to follow all safety procedures and use required PPE at all times.
Performance Expectations
The successful Baler will operate equipment safely and consistently, produce properly formed and secured bales, maintain a clean and organized work area, and communicate equipment or production problems promptly to management.