Job Overview
The Baler & Shredder Operator and Maintenance Technician is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of industrial shredders and baling equipment. This role includes processing materials according to specifications, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting minor issues, and ensuring a clean and safe work environment. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude and a commitment to safety and productivity.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Baler and Shredder Operations:
- Operate and monitor industrial shredders and baling machines to process materials such as metal, cardboard, and plastic.
- Feed materials into the shredder and baler conveyor system, ensuring a continuous and safe flow.
- Monitor equipment to identify and resolve minor jams, blockages, or operational issues.
- Thread and secure tie bands around bales and use appropriate equipment (e.g., forklift, pallet jack) to remove and transport finished bales to designated storage areas.
- Weigh finished bales and maintain accurate records of bale weights, material types, and production output.
- Operate a forklift to load and unload materials and move finished bales for shipment.
2. Equipment Maintenance:
- Perform daily, weekly, and monthly preventative maintenance on all baling and shredding equipment as per manufacturer's guidelines.
- Conduct routine checks for visible signs of wear, damage, or leaks on hydraulic systems, belts, and electrical components.
- Lubricate moving parts, including chains and bearings, to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear.
- Clean the baler and shredder chambers to prevent material buildup and ensure optimal performance.
- Tighten bolts, connections, and safety guards to maintain structural integrity.
- Troubleshoot minor mechanical or electrical issues and communicate the need for major repairs to management or a maintenance team.
- Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities and performed services.
3. Safety and Housekeeping:
- Adhere strictly to all company safety protocols and procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for maintenance tasks.
- Conduct pre-operation safety checks on all equipment and test emergency stop buttons.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and debris-free workspace around the balers and shredders to prevent hazards.
- Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection.
- Report all safety and maintenance concerns immediately to a supervisor.
Required Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Proven experience operating industrial balers, shredders, or similar heavy machinery.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and a willingness to perform routine equipment maintenance.
- Forklift certification or the ability to become certified upon hiring.
- Ability to read and interpret work instructions, safety rules, and procedure manuals.
- Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in record-keeping.
- Strong work ethic and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, and use hands for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 lbs.
- Frequent bending, kneeling, and stooping.
- Comfortable working in a warehouse or industrial environment with moderate to high noise levels and occasional exposure to dust.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
Work Location: In person
