Internship Paper Engineer Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

The Process Engineer supports the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the paper mill by improving processes, reducing costs, and driving quality performance. This role works closely with Operations and reports to the Production Manager while partnering daily with production, maintenance, and reliability teams. The Process Engineer is responsible for monitoring process performance, identifying improvement opportunities, and implementing solutions that improve productivity, reduce waste, enhance quality, and strengthen overall mill performance.

We are seeking candidates with a strong technical foundation, analytical mindset, and passion for manufacturing. Professionals with industry experience are strongly encouraged to apply. We are also interested in emerging talent whose co-op, internship, research, or project experience demonstrates the skills, initiative, and potential to succeed and grow in this role.

Experience in paper, pulp, packaging, or other continuous-process manufacturing environments is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor daily process performance across assigned areas (e.g., stock preparation, wet end, dry end, and utilities) and identify performance gaps relative to established targets.
• Analyze process and production data using Excel and other analytical tools to identify trends, losses, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and maintain reports, dashboards, and data summaries to support operational and business decision-making.
• Utilize process data from Distributed Control Systems (DCS) to troubleshoot operational issues and support process optimization efforts.
• Support root cause analysis activities and assist with the development and implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
• Partner with operations teams to improve runnability, reduce breaks, increase efficiency, and stabilize processes.
• Assist with grade changes, production trials, and process improvement initiatives.
• Develop, maintain, and improve process documentation, standard operating procedures, and operating guidelines.
• Track, analyze, and report key performance indicators (KPIs), including production rates, waste reduction, energy usage, quality metrics, and process reliability.
• Support cost reduction initiatives through process optimization, fiber utilization improvements, chemical usage optimization, and energy efficiency projects.
• Participate in safety initiatives and ensure processes are designed, operated, and improved with a strong focus on safety and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with maintenance and reliability teams to address equipment-related process issues and improve equipment performance.
• Assist in the commissioning, startup, and optimization of new equipment, systems, or process upgrades.
• Provide technical support during upset conditions and help lead problem-solving efforts on the production floor.
• Engage with operators and frontline employees to gather feedback, build relationships, and drive continuous improvement efforts.
• Support capital and mill improvement projects through technical analysis, calculations, project execution, and implementation support.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Paper Science, or a related engineering discipline.
• Manufacturing, process engineering, operations, or continuous improvement experience is preferred.
• Relevant experience may be gained through professional engineering roles, co-ops, internships, research projects, or other applicable hands-on technical experiences.
• Experience in paper, pulp, packaging, or other continuous-process manufacturing environments is preferred.

• Strong data analysis skills with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to work with large data sets, formulas, and basic data visualization tools.
• Experience or exposure to Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and the ability to interpret and analyze process trends preferred.
• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
• Ability to evaluate opportunities, identify root causes, and implement practical process improvements.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate technical information to a variety of audiences.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across operations, maintenance, reliability, and leadership teams.
• Willingness to spend time in operating areas to learn processes, support operations, and engage with employees.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes; paper mill experience is a plus.
• Self-motivated with a continuous improvement mindset and a desire to drive operational performance.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Improved process stability, quality, and production performance.
• Increased use of data and analysis to drive operational decision-making.
• Reduced waste, downtime, and operating costs through process improvements.
• Strong partnerships with operations, maintenance, and reliability teams.
• A proactive approach to safety, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.