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Paper Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$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

$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 ...

New

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 Chicago, IL

Paper Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.5K

$82.8K

$167.3K

How much do paper engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for paper engineer in Chicago, IL is $82,772.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,030.00 and $112,906.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Paper Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Paper Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Paper Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Paper Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Paper Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,772 per year, or $39.8 per hour.
Machine Operator - Paper Plant

Machine Operator - Paper Plant

Provisur Technologies

Tinley Park, IL • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Provisur Technologies rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

402nd of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Provisur is an industry leader that pushes the boundaries of ingenuity, bringing precision-engineered food processing equipment, aftermarket parts and service to customers around the world. We specialize in defrosting, grinding, mixing, separating, forming, and slicing equipment, offering leading brands and solutions across diverse applications. Our company culture is built on collaboration, continuous improvement, and a commitment to excellence. We take pride in empowering our employees, offering opportunities for professional growth, and creating an environment where everyone plays a role in our shared success. Join us and be part of an innovative, forward-thinking global team that is shaping the future of food processing. Learn more by exploring our videos at jobs.jobvite.com/provisur!
Our Machine Operators perform a variety of tasks related to paper production within the Paper Plant. This includes operating and monitoring equipment, maintaining production standards for quantity, quality, and safety, and performing routine checks to ensure equipment and materials remain in optimal working condition. Operators are also responsible for accurate recordkeeping and supporting overall plant efficiency.
What You'll Do:
  • Set up, operate and adjust the R.B. Graphics Hole Driller and components to produce a consistent quality product with maximum production efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot equipment performance problems and perform routine maintenance on all production equipment.
  • Track and report daily production.
  • Stage and prepare rolls for laminating and/or sheeting, feed paper through equipment prior to start up, start equipment and make adjustments as needed. Program guillotine to required sizes.
  • Place paper lifts into guillotine, cut lifts of scheduled sizes and transfer cut paper bundles to binder/packer.
  • Load bundles on conveyor and re-box, tape and stack pallet. Move material to punching area.
  • Set up and run laminator, sheeter and guillotine in a safe and conscientious manner to produce quality laminated paper or single lifts.
  • Receive, count and check all incoming material and parts
  • Prepare orders for shipments, verify count, package and label cases
  • Bind stacks of patty paper into cases

Who You Are:

  • A dedicated team player who can work well with others as part of the production process.
  • A doer who can learn how to operate different types of paper processing equipment.
  • A dedicated team player with a strong work ethic who takes pride in what they produce.

What You'll Need:

  • One year of experience operating machines in a manufacturing/production environment.
  • A basic understanding of fractions and basic H.S. math skills.

What You'll Enjoy:

  • Healthy work/life balance
  • Cross-training, ongoing skill development, and continuing education assistance
  • A robust benefits package with great health, dental, vision, and life insurance, and employee referral bonuses!
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Retirement savings (401k) opportunities
  • Matching gifts on charitable contributions
Pay Range: The compensation range below reflects a good faith estimate of starting base pay for full-time employment at the time of posting. The pay range may be higher or lower based on geographic location, and individual pay will vary based on demonstrated job related skills, knowledge, experience, education, and certifications.
$21 - $23 per hour
Employment Type: Full-Time

What Provisur Technologies employees say

Hours and flexibility

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