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Intern Paper Mill Jobs in Decatur, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Intern Paper Mill information

See Decatur, MI salary details

$8

$15

$22

How much do intern paper mill jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern paper mill in Decatur, MI is $15.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intern at a Paper Mill, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern at a Paper Mill, you generally need a background in engineering or industrial technology, strong problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn about manufacturing processes. Familiarity with safety protocols, basic laboratory equipment, and systems such as Microsoft Office or industry-specific software is often required. Strong communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability help interns integrate with experienced staff and handle changing tasks. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe operations, effective learning, and meaningful contributions to the mill’s productivity.

What types of projects or tasks can an intern expect to work on within a paper mill environment?

As an intern at a paper mill, you will typically be involved in a variety of hands-on and observational projects that support daily operations. Tasks may include assisting with quality control checks, collecting and analyzing production data, participating in process improvement initiatives, and shadowing experienced engineers or technicians on the manufacturing floor. You may also help with equipment inspections, learn about safety protocols, and contribute to documentation or reporting efforts. This role offers a comprehensive introduction to the paper production process and provides valuable exposure to teamwork and industrial problem-solving.

What does an intern do at a paper mill?

An intern at a paper mill typically assists with various tasks related to the production and quality control of paper products. Their duties might include collecting samples, conducting tests in the lab, shadowing operators and engineers, assisting with machine maintenance, and supporting safety protocols. Interns gain hands-on experience in industrial processes, learn about manufacturing technologies, and may work on small projects or improvement initiatives. This role is designed to provide practical industry experience for students or recent graduates interested in manufacturing or chemical engineering.

What is the difference between Intern Paper Mill vs Paper Mill Worker?

AspectIntern Paper MillPaper Mill Worker
CredentialsTypically students or trainees, no formal certifications requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, supervised, temporaryFull-time, production environment, safety-sensitive
Industry UsageInternship for gaining industry experienceOperational role in paper manufacturing

Intern Paper Mill roles are primarily educational, offering hands-on experience under supervision, while Paper Mill Workers are full-time employees responsible for daily production tasks. Internships serve as a stepping stone into the industry, whereas workers are involved in ongoing manufacturing processes.

Intern Paper Mill jobs near you
Paper Industry Intern

Paper Industry Intern

Graphic Packaging International, Inc.

Kalamazoo, MI

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Internship

Posted 29 days ago

Graphic Packaging International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description


MISSION / SUMMARY:

The position of Intern is to provide interns with practical professional work experience within the Tech Lab, Machine and Safety Departments of the Board Mill.

EDUCATION / KNOWLEDGE:

  • Current student in good standing pursuing a degree in Paper and Pulp, Engineering, Safety or related field.

DESIRED SKILLS:

  • Desire to work on projects.
  • Leadership skills.
  • Good analytical skills with attention to detail.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability and desire to work in team environment.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications.

SCHEDULE DEMANDS:

  • Initially training will be completed on day shift.
  • Flexible work schedule to meet demands of current course load.
  • Must be able to work rotating weekends.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Standing for extended periods.
  • Awkward and/or repetitive movements.
  • Moving or lifting of equipment, materials, and tools up to 50 lbs repeatedly for an 8 hr. shift.
  • Climbing extension ladders, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or movement within confined areas.
  • Work in buildings and areas of fluctuating temperature and weather.
  • Job requires exposure to weather, dirt, grease, fumes and heat.

Required Experience


At Graphic Packaging International (NYSE: GPK), we produce the box you may have poured your child's cereal from this morning, the microwaveable tray that heated your lunch, the paper cup that held your coffee throughout the day, and the carrier of those bottles of craft beer you may enjoy tonight! We're one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging for some of the world's most recognized brands of food, beverage, foodservice, household, personal care and pet care products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we are a team of collaborative, innovative, passionate individuals who are committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference.
With almost 18,000 employees working in more than 70 locations in North and South America, Europe and the Pacific Rim, we strive to be an environmentally responsible leader in our industry and in the communities where we operate. We are committed to workplace diversity and offer compensation and benefits programs that are among the industry's best to reward the talented people who make our company successful.
If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, we'd love to hear from you. Learn more about us at www.graphicpkg.com.
Inspired Packaging. A World of Difference.

Graphic Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, religion, age, gender or sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic identity, genetic information, disability, veteran/military status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Click here to view the EEO is the Law Poster.

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