1

Paper Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer (Escanaba, MI) Summary Description This position will drive the efficient production and optimization of paper machine or pulping operations within a production area of the mill.

Environmental Engineer Principle Accountabilities: Examine and analyze existing systems and ... Knowledge of pulp & paper-making, waste-water treatment, and recovery operations. Preferred ...

Trim Engineer

Clinton, MI · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Summary The Trim Engineer participates and is responsible for design, development, and ... Responsible to create and release trim cover drawings, paper and digitized pattern development.

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Controls Engineer Job Duties: * The Controls Engineer will Support the maintenance department by ... paper format and throughout facility. * Maintain, troubleshoot, repair and improve automated ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Controls Engineer Job Duties: * The Controls Engineer will Support the maintenance department by ... and/or paper format and throughout facility. * Maintain, troubleshoot , repair and improve ...

Showing results 21-40

Paper Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$17.6K

$70.8K

$143.1K

How much do paper engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for paper engineer in Michigan is $70,817.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,248.00 and $96,599.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paper engineer?

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 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 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 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.

How much does a paper engineer make?

A paper engineer typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior roles can earn higher salaries, often with additional benefits and opportunities for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paper Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Paper Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Paper Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Paper Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Paper Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,817 per year, or $34 per hour.

$86K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company.  Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds.  Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence.  We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers.  Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

People • Customers • Trust

Environmental Engineer

Principle Accountabilities:

Examine and analyze existing systems and processes for improvement and/or correction.

Maintain compliance with state and federal environmental regulations.

Environmental reporting.

Make recommendations for appropriate instrumentation and control of new process systems.

Insure that process changes or new equipment installation abide by current environmental rules and regulations.

Manage environmental capital projects within scope of responsibility.

Interact closely with operations, maintenance, engineering and process control personnel in the accomplishment of assigned tasks.

Insure that any new or revised process systems conform to all applicable state and/or federal environmental and safety standards.

Environmental review of trial plans for process changes and chemical trials.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering.

Applicants must have 1 - 5 years’ experience in process engineering or environmental engineering.

Knowledge of pulp & paper-making, waste-water treatment, and recovery operations.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with instrumentation and control systems. 

Public relations with people outside of the company.

The successful candidate must possess the following Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Must be able to work well under pressure and within time constraints, multi-task, and build sound relationships with both internal and external customers.

Must exhibit excellent communication, analytical, organizational and computer skills.

Must be capable of independently making sound decisions through creative problem solving.

Must be capable of working with ambiguity and change.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

  • Starting salary range for position: $86,400 - $129,600.
  • Paid Vacation: Three (3) weeks per calendar year. Pro-rata Vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year. 
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision – and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
  • Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.
  • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA’s good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.


What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom