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Paper Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Novolex

Machine Operator

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator|Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $26.98 -Paid ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator|Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $26.98 -Paid ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Grottoes, VA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator|Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $26.98 -Paid ...

Sabert

Assistant Operator - Paper Bowls - Day

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

* The Paper Bowl Assistant Operator supports the operation of paper bowl machines to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. The role involves loading raw material, clearing jams ...

Westrock

Supv, Mfg Ops

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$82K - $137K/yr

This role covers the paper machine, recycle, and shipping. This is a rotating shift. How you will ... Interprets and enforces company policies, standard operating procedures, and safety regulations.

Westrock

Supv, Mfg Ops

West Point, VA · On-site

$82K - $137K/yr

Facilitate the training of each crew member to maximize operator proficiencies. * Initiates and ... Ability to work rotating 8-hour shifts Keywords: paper machine shift supervisor, paper machine tour ...

Moore

Envelope Machine Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

Provides coverage for machine operators if necessary. Notifies shift supervisor of recurring ... Exposure paper dust, minor cuts, punctures, and abrasions. Minor risk of repetitive motion injuries.

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a ...

Super Radiator Coils

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Equipment operator's set-up and run our metal forming equipment. These machines use high precision ... pulp and paper companies, and food processing equipment. Super Radiator Coils is a stable ...

Veteran-friendly

Urgent

Training provided

Super Radiator Coils

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Equipment operator's set-up and run our metal forming equipment. These machines use high precision ... pulp and paper companies, and food processing equipment. Super Radiator Coils is a stable ...

Veteran-friendly

Urgent

Training provided

The Lee Group

Machine Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$17.50/hr

This position supports the production of high-quality synthetic paper in a modern, technology ... • Monitor machinery and production lines to ensure smooth operation • Perform routine ...

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Paper Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper machine operator in Virginia is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paper Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paper Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical operations, troubleshooting, and production processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, computerized control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators manage workflow and respond quickly to issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing downtime, and ensuring a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.

What skills do papermakers need?

Papermakers need strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate and troubleshoot machinery such as paper machines and related equipment. Good communication, teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols are also essential in a manufacturing environment.

How much does a paper machine operator make?

A paper machine operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in the paper manufacturing industry tend to earn higher wages.

What are the most common challenges faced by Paper Machine Operators on the job?

Paper Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent machine performance, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring product quality standards are met. The fast-paced environment requires quick decision-making and attention to detail, especially when responding to unexpected issues like paper breaks or mechanical faults. Operators must also coordinate closely with maintenance crews and quality control teams to minimize downtime and keep production running smoothly.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn over $70,000 annually. Roles requiring advanced technical skills, certifications, or operating complex machinery tend to offer higher salaries compared to standard manufacturing positions.

What does a paper machine operator do?

A paper machine operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of paper manufacturing machines to produce quality paper products. They set up equipment, adjust machine settings, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed in a manufacturing environment. Strong technical skills and attention to detail are essential for maintaining efficient production.

What is the difference between Paper Machine Operator vs Paper Mill Technician?

AspectPaper Machine OperatorPaper Mill Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor of paper mills, operating machineryMaintenance and repair areas within paper mills, supporting machinery
Industry UsagePrimarily in paper manufacturing plantsInvolved in maintaining and troubleshooting paper production equipment

The Paper Machine Operator focuses on running and monitoring paper production machines, ensuring quality and efficiency. In contrast, the Paper Mill Technician primarily handles maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of equipment. Both roles are essential in paper manufacturing, often working closely to ensure smooth operations.

What are Paper Machine Operators?

Paper Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running and maintaining machines that produce paper from raw materials like wood pulp. They monitor machine settings, inspect finished paper for quality, and adjust equipment as needed to ensure efficient operation. Their duties also include troubleshooting mechanical problems and performing routine maintenance. Paper Machine Operators play a vital role in the manufacturing process, ensuring that paper products meet industry standards and customer requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Paper Machine Operator jobs in Virginia? For Paper Machine Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Paper Machine Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Machine Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Paper Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Operator

Novolex

Grottoes, VA • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Novolex rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Company Overview
Why Choose Us?
Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.
Our Sustainability Commitment
The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.
Job Description
Machine Operator|Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring
Compensation:
  • Starting pay rate is a $26.98 -Paid Weekly!
  • Eligible for annual wage increases
  • Eligible for monthly bonus based upon plant productivity*

Available Shift:
  • 7:00 AM-7:00 PM/7:00 PM-7:00 AM (rotates every 3 months) (2x2x3 schedule)

TEXT TO APPLY NUMBER:
  • 928-668-6539 (928-NOVOLEX)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate assigned Extrusion Machines at required rate
  • Starts and stops machines
  • Perform general set-up, change-over, shut-down tasks.
  • Monitor all extrusion and winding machinery operations on a continuous basis for quality and efficiencies.
  • Diagnose/troubleshoot mechanical machine problems and makes adjustments to correct machine problems and maintain run rates.
  • Perform necessary adjustments to maintain and/or improve product quality
  • Maintain run efficiencies established for the line and products
  • Perform quality check at prescribed intervals
  • Perform material tasks related to the assigned operations
  • Complete paperwork including but not limited to Operator Report, Quality Checks, and other forms as required
  • Promptly communicates to supervisor any issues concerning health and safety, hygiene, quality and efficiencies.
  • Maintain housekeeping around assigned operations.
  • Follow company safety procedures and policies
  • Assist other operators
  • Communicate production information both written and verbal
  • Perform all other assigned duties

Qualifications:
  • Machine operator experience or equivalent maintenance/ mechanical experience.
  • Demonstrated mechanical experience required.
  • Must have good communication skills-written and verbal and be able to demonstrate basic math proficiency.
  • Must be able to use tools as required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with others effectively as a part of a team is essential.

Company Benefits
What You'll Get From Us
Benefits
With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.
Community Engagement
At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.
Training and Development
We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.
Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.
Formerly Pactiv Evergreen

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