1

Paper Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY We are seeking an Electrical Engineer to join a global packaging manufacturing leader ... Experience in packaging, pulp & paper, or other high-speed process industries strongly preferred

Apply Early

Mechanical Project Engineer - West Point, VA Career opportunity: The Mechanical Project Engineer ... Pulp & Paper experience preferred but not required * Project management experience, PMP ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$95K - $123K/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 ...

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

next page

Showing results 1-20

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.
Process Control Engineer (Riverville Mill)

Process Control Engineer (Riverville Mill)

pca

Gladstone, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 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

We are seeking resumes for a Process Control Engineer's at our Gladstone, VA. Riverville Paper Mill.

The Process Control Engineer is responsible for coordinating the planning, organizing, programming, and maintenance of all mill PLC, Distributed, and Quality Control Systems. Responsible for managing a group of hourly union journeyman technicians on a daily basis for programming PLC and Distributed Control Systems based on operational and engineering needs. The engineer will help to define and participate in the development of control system daily and preventative maintenance programs to improve reliability of all included control systems in the mill.


Principle Accountabilities:

Providing technical direction, assistance, and solutions to hourly electrical maintenance and operating personnel. 

Work with key mechanical, reliability maintenance, and engineering personnel to support daily and monthly scheduled maintenance outages and annual outage jobs within the field of process control engineering.

Some crossover activities to the electrical/mechanical maintenance programs will be required to deliver complete programs for all types of equipment.

Work with maintenance/engineering and operations personnel to complete maintenance and capital projects.

Provide management and programming support including: necessary programming, training, stocking of spare parts, preventive maintenance checklists, drawing creation, and updates for the maintenance/engineering personnel as needed.

Supports the Mills goals for safety, environmental, and other areas of need.

Focus on Process Control supervision of hourly union work force, supervision of programming of all mill control systems for daily activities, and capital projects and control system equipment reliability.

Manage the control system equipment tracking programs and systems PM programs.

Utilize predictive & preventative maintenance programs to identify and correct equipment issues.

Input and update equipment information and documentation.

Develop equipment manuals for precision inspection and maintenance of the control systems in the mill.

Manage assigned work for monthly and annual outages.

Assist with MS Project timelines for monthly and annual outages.

Plan and execute capital projects for maintenance replacements of control systems equipment.

Effectively manage jobs for best result at lowest cost.

Look for opportunities to solve issues, reduce cost, and improve planning performance.

Solve problems utilizing the mill’s RCFA program.

Effectively manages contractors for performing jobs.

Performs other responsibilities as needed.


Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering or equivalent education and experience required.

A minimum of 2-5 years’ experience, or the equivalent, in Electrical or Chemical Engineering.

Experience using Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Project, and AutoCAD.

Successful completion of drug screen required and authorization to work in the U.S.

 

Preferred Qualifications

Pulp & Paper industry experience preferred.

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.

Ability to apply skills to continuous process improvement while maintaining maximum levels of safety.

Demonstrated leadership skills and abilities.

Strong planning and follow up skills.

Excellent people and process management skills.

PAY & BENEFITS:

PCA provides a competitive, comprehensive benefits package.
Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision

401k with company matching

Retirement Savings Plan

Educational Assistance Program

11 paid holidays

3 Weeks of Vacation Time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom