Baler Operator

International Paper•Columbia, SC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Baler Operator works at International Paper’s Columbia, South Carolina location on a second or third shift schedule. This hourly, full-time role operates balers and related equipment, loads material using a forklift, monitors paper feed and bale quality, records production and maintenance information, and helps maintain a safe, clean work area. The operator also assists with preventive maintenance, operates a shredder in accordance with NAID requirements, and communicates production, maintenance, and safety concerns to a supervisor. The role requires the ability to work any shift and overtime as needed. Employees are expected to follow plant policies, safety procedures, and housekeeping standards; attend safety and townhall meetings; and use equipment, tools, and consumables responsibly. Other duties may be assigned. International Paper describes its culture as focused on employee well-being and safe, caring, inclusive workplaces. The company also highlights its sustainability practices and offers leadership training and promotional opportunities.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Ability to work any shift as needed and overtime as needed.
Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
Alertness, visual ability, and good communication skills.
Expected to demonstrate on-the-job success in safety, attendance, and quality of work.
Ability to safely replace wire spools.
Ability to be trained in safe baler operation, including lockout/tagout procedures.
Ability to operate a baler and forklift.

Responsibilities

Complete the pre-start loader maintenance inspection report.
Feed paper to the baler conveyor and perform all facets of loading the baler.
Operate balers according to brand specifications.
Load the baler using a forklift.
Record the grade and percentage of waste in material dumped into the compactor.
Monitor the paper feed line and wire condition and feed.
Monitor bales for wiring, grade, quality, and weight.
Record equipment maintenance activity and baler downtime.
Assist with daily, weekly, and monthly preventive maintenance for the baler and feed conveyors.
Operate the shredder and follow NAID requirements for document destruction.
Keep the driveway and loading dock free of material and prevent paper or plastic from accumulating around the property fence line.
Prevent loose paper from accumulating around the baler, remove material build-up, and assist with pushing material into the baler as needed.
Communicate maintenance issues, downtime, and production issues to the supervisor.
Maintain a safe and clean work environment according to plant housekeeping standards.
Attend and participate in plant safety and townhall meetings.
Manage controllable costs through proper equipment, tool, and consumable usage.
Report safety or maintenance concerns and adhere to plant policies and guidelines.