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Paper Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Pulp, Paper Science * Must have drive and excellent work ethic to progress into operations management positions * Strong interpersonal and leadership ...

... project engineer, electrical, electrical engineering, paper, senior electrical engineer, senior electrical project engineer, linerboard, paperboard, liner, freesheet, coated, brown stock ...

Paper Mill. Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering support for the mill, which will include but not be limited to, compliance process coordination, lean projects, quality and ...

The Assistant Engineer is the individual on the project responsible for building parts of the project "on paper". Reports to: Engineer, Project Engineer or Project Manager Essential Duties ...

The Assistant Engineer is the individual on the project responsible for building parts of the project "on paper". Reports to: Engineer, Project Engineer or Project Manager Essential Duties ...

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA

$55 - $75.25/hr

... papers and other tools to determine if there are potential issues before deployments (DevOps ... Support) Support production maintenance activities that include the development of automated ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... papers, information papers, capability requirements, and related materials, ensuring accuracy ...

... pulp & paper or pharmaceutical * Strong commitment to process and occupational safety, and ... degreed engineer in industries such as: chemical, petroleum, polymer, pulp & paper, or ...

... pulp & paper or pharmaceutical * Strong commitment to process and occupational safety, and ... degreed engineer in industries such as: chemical, petroleum, polymer, pulp & paper, or ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Develop and update programmatic documentation, including white papers, information papers ...

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Paper Engineer information

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.
Infographic showing various Paper Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Chemical Engineering Co-Op Fall 2026

Chemical Engineering Co-Op Fall 2026

Packaging Corporation of America

Gladstone, VA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 112 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
People • Customers • Trust
We are seeking resumes for Chemical Engineering Co-ops (Multiple Openings for Fall 2026) at our Gladstone, VA. Paper Mill.
Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering support for the mill, which will include but not be limited to, compliance process coordination, lean projects, quality and product safety, and analytical and systems support. Develops and maintains methods for tracking and reducing operational costs. Coordinate the efforts of our outside resources to improve our operation by filtering and utilizing appropriate information. Conducts data analysis projects and uses data to make business decisions. Assignments may include some work at higher levels for training and development purposes. Successful candidates should have knowledge of pulp & paper making, waste-water treatment, and recovery operations. Interest/aptitude in controls.
Basic Qualifications:
Must be a student in good standing with the University, currently enrolled majoring in Chemical Engineering or equivalent applicable engineering program. The student will have either completed the Freshman year or will have completed the Freshman year when co-op begins and express interest in Pulp and Paper Manufacturing as a career. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 is required, you must pass a drug screen, and you must be eligible to work in the US full-time.
The successful candidate must possess the following Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Ability to be able to work well under pressure and within time constraints, multi-task, and build sound relationships with both internal and external customers.
Ability to exhibit excellent communication, analytical, organizational, and computer skills.
Capable of independently making sound decisions through creative problem-solving, ambiguity, and change
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.
Ability to read and understand technical correspondence, memos, instructions, and reports.
PCA provides a competitive, comprehensive benefits package.
PAY & BENEFITS:
Salary Range:
$30.00 hr. Seniors
$29.00 hr. Juniors
$27.00 hr. Sophomores
$25.00 hr. Freshmen
$1000.00 Monthly Housing Stipend
1.5 pay over 40 hours in a week
Reimbursement of Relocation to and from co-op assignment
Medical Insurance if eligible
401k with company matching
Retirement Savings Plan
Educational Assistance Program
11 paid holidays
Vacation Time
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
All qualified applicants must apply at Careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.
PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans/Disabled and other protected cate

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