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Paper Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and ... International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans ...

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL

$78K - $86K/yr

Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and ... International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans ...

Paper Converting Machine

Sr. Process Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people ...

Alsip MiniMill

Process Engineer

Alsip, IL · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

As a leader in recycled paper production, the company values safety, collaboration, and continuous ... The Process Engineer at the Alsip Mini Mill will be responsible for optimizing production processes ...

Alsip MiniMill, LLC

Process Engineer

Alsip, IL

$105K - $125K/yr

As a leader in recycled paper production, the company values safety, collaboration, and continuous ... The Process Engineer at the Alsip Mini Mill will be responsible for optimizing production processes ...

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL

$75K - $101K/yr

Display Engineering & Prototyping: Develop structural designs for a variety of merchandising ... International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans ...

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All JobsPaper Engineer JobsPaper Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Paper Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$17.6K

$70.8K

$143K

How much do paper engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for paper engineer in Illinois is $70,761.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,221.00 and $96,522.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Paper Engineer might face when collaborating with designers and manufacturers?

Paper Engineers often work closely with graphic designers and manufacturers to turn creative concepts into functional paper structures, such as pop-up books or packaging. A common challenge is bridging the gap between artistic vision and the technical limitations of paper, such as weight, foldability, and durability. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to ensure that designs are both visually compelling and structurally sound, all while staying within budget and production timelines. Collaboration also frequently involves adapting to changes or troubleshooting prototypes, making flexibility and attention to detail important assets in this role.

What are paper engineers?

Paper engineers are professionals who design and create structures, mechanisms, and products using paper and cardboard. They are best known for developing pop-up books, greeting cards, packaging, and other intricate paper-based items that require engineering skills to ensure functionality and durability. Paper engineers combine creativity with technical knowledge of materials, folds, and mechanisms to turn flat sheets of paper into three-dimensional, interactive works.

What is the difference between Paper Engineer vs Graphic Designer?

AspectPaper EngineerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsDesign or engineering degree, specialized knowledge in paper and packagingDesign degree, portfolio, proficiency in design software
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, packaging companies, manufacturing settingsAdvertising agencies, media companies, freelance or corporate offices
Industry UsagePackaging, product design, paper artsAdvertising, branding, digital media

While both Paper Engineers and Graphic Designers work creatively, Paper Engineers focus on designing innovative paper-based structures and packaging, often requiring engineering knowledge. Graphic Designers primarily create visual content for branding and marketing. The roles overlap in creative problem-solving but differ in technical focus and industry applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paper Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paper Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, material science, and papermaking processes, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, paper testing equipment, and manufacturing process control systems is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for designing innovative paper products and optimizing production. These skills ensure efficient production, high-quality products, and the ability to meet evolving industry demands.
What are the most commonly searched types of Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Paper Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Paper Engineer job openings:
Paper Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,761 per year, or $34 per hour.

Engineering & Maintenance Manager

Fischer Paper Products Inc

Antioch, IL • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Engineering & Maintenance Manager Location: Antioch, IL / Onsite


Lead Lean transformation and equipment optimization for a growing manufacturing operation.

Fischer Paper Products is seeking an experienced Engineering & Maintenance Manager to drive reliability, performance, and continuous improvement across our manufacturing operations. This role leads Lean manufacturing initiatives, equipment reliability strategies, and process optimization while guiding engineering and maintenance teams in a fast-paced production environment.

The ideal candidate brings strong continuous improvement expertise, technical leadership, and a proactive approach to asset management, partnering closely with Production and Operations to increase uptime, efficiency, product quality, and sustainable operational growth.

Key Responsibilities

· Lead and develop a team of engineers and technicians focused on safe, efficient operation, maintenance, and upgrades of equipment.

· Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across maintenance and engineering functions.

· Implement and manage predictive and preventative maintenance programs to maximize equipment uptime and improve line performance.

· Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving initiatives to eliminate recurring equipment and process issues.

· Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Bills of Materials, and production standards to support consistent, high-quality manufacturing.

· Collaborate with Production and Operations to support process improvements, ensuring smooth, efficient, and on-spec production.

· Lead innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies, Lean/Six Sigma methods, and automation to enhance operations.

· Key contributor when evaluating expansions and new technology introductions to the company.

Core Competencies

· Continuous Improvement Mindset: Champions Lean manufacturing principles, waste reduction, and operational excellence.

· Communication: Clearly communicates technical and operational information while building strong cross-functional relationships.

· Collaboration: Works effectively with Production, Quality, and Operations teams to achieve shared goals.

· Service Orientation: Focuses on meeting internal and external customer needs through reliable operations.

· Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic manufacturing environment and adjusts quickly to operational changes.

· Technical Expertise: Maintains strong engineering knowledge and keeps pace with emerging technologies and industry trends.

Leadership Competencies

· Leading Others: Serves as an advocate, coach, and servant leader focused on employee development, collaboration, and performance management.

· Leading the Organization: Acts as a strategic advisor driving change management, operational improvements, risk management, and compliance.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering required (MBA or Master’s in Engineering Management preferred).

· 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience in engineering and maintenance.

· 5+ years in printing and converting manufacturing.

Demonstrated expertise in:

- Lean manufacturing, 5S, and Six Sigma

- Continuous improvement initiatives

- Preventative and predictive maintenance programs

- Equipment installation, reliability engineering, and automation

- Root cause analysis and problem solving

- Experience managing budgets, capital projects, and technical teams.

- Experience in the paper or flexographic printing industry preferred.


At Fischer Paper Products, we value continuous improvement, collaboration, and empowering technical teams to solve problems and innovate. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.