Baler Operator / Recycling Yard Equipment Operator

Job Summary

Lautenbach Recycling is hiring a Baler Operator to support daily processing operations at our Bakerview facility. This role is centered on operating, monitoring, and supporting industrial baler operations, with additional responsibility for safe material handling and basic recycling knowledge.

This position is best suited for someone comfortable running heavy equipment in an industrial yard, who understands how baler operations fit into a recycling workflow.

Essential Functions

• Start up, operate, and monitor industrial baler equipment


• Produce bales across multiple commodity types


• Move, stage, stack, and load bales safely and efficiently


• Track and report end‑of‑day bale inventory


• Support material flow to and from the baler


• Operate yard equipment including forklifts, loaders, and excavators


• Follow all safety procedures related to baler operation, equipment use, and yard traffic


• Assist with general yard and processing operations as needed

Required Qualifications

• Forklift certification required


• Experience operating baler equipment strongly preferred


• Prior experience operating heavy equipment (forklifts, loaders, excavators)


• Working knowledge of recycling operations and material handling


• Basic understanding of recyclable commodities and material grading preferred


• Ability to follow safety rules, work instructions, and standard operating procedures


• Strong situational awareness in an active industrial yard

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Industrial recycling yard environment


• Exposure to outdoor weather, noise, dust, and heavy equipment


• Ability to stand, walk, climb equipment, and work on uneven surfaces


• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation

Compensation & Benefits

• Wage: $22 - $25 DOE TO START


• Benefits include:
  
  
  
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  
  
  • Paid sick time
  
  
  • Paid vacation time
  
  
  • Paid holidays
  
  
  • 401(k) retirement plan eligibility after one (1) year of continuous employment
  
  
  
  

Additional Information

• Drug‑Free Workplace: Lautenbach Recycling is a drug‑free workplace. Employment is contingent upon compliance with company substance abuse policies.


• Background Check: Employment may be contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, consistent with Washington State law.


• Equal Employment Opportunity: Lautenbach Recycling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


• ADA Statement: Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.


• Employment Status: Employment is at‑will unless otherwise stated in writing.