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Paper Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CDM Smith

Geotechnical Engineer 1

Fairfax, VA

Performs engineering analyses and prepares design support documentation to meet project ... Assists with preparation of technical papers, journal articles, conference presentations, posters ...

Westrock

Staff Eng, Proj Engineering

West Point, VA · On-site

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

KBR

SETA Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

SETA Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... Analyzing and developing materials (briefings, point papers, spreadsheets) used by senior leaders ...

KBR

SETA Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

SETA Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... Analyzing and developing materials (briefings, point papers, spreadsheets) used by senior leaders ...

pca

Chemical Engineering Co-Op Fall 2026

Gladstone, VA

$30/hr

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 ...

Artech Information System LLC

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 ...

ECS

Senior Electrical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$111K - $144K/yr

Experience developing and publishing technical content from concept to completion, including test procedures, test reports, engineering analyses, white papers, operations/user manuals, and design ...

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Chester, VA

$95K/yr

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

advansix

Sr. Process Engineer

Richmond, VA

$95K/yr

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

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All JobsPaper Engineer JobsPaper Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Paper Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$19.5K

$78.4K

$158.5K

How much do paper engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for paper engineer in Virginia is $78,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,928.00 and $106,978.00 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 popular job titles related to Paper Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Paper Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Paper Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Paper Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Engineer job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,426 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
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 8 days ago

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 110 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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