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Paper Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sabert

Operator - Paper Bowls - Night

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

* Night Shift 6PM-6AM The Paper Bowl Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and basic maintenance of paper bowl equipment. This role ensures the production of ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Sabert

Assistant Operator - Paper Bowls - Night

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

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.

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 ...

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.

Westrock

Supv, Mfg Ops

West Point, VA · On-site

... paper machines, recycle fiber plant, and shipping/logistics to achieve maximum sustained safety ... Facilitate the training of each crew member to maximize operator proficiencies. * Initiates and ...

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 · 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 ...

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All JobsPaper Machine Operator JobsPaper Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia

Paper Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% 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.
Operator - Paper Bowls - Night

Operator - Paper Bowls - Night

Sabert

Richmond, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Sabert rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 112 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

  • Night Shift 6PM-6AM

    The Paper Bowl Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and basic maintenance of paper bowl equipment. This role ensures the production of high-quality paper bowls by maintaining equipment performance, enforcing quality standards, documenting production activity, and complying with all safety and regulatory requirements.

    Essential Job Functions:

    Operation

    • Lead and operate all paper bowl machines to ensure safe, efficient, continuous production
    • Perform machine setups, adjustments, and advanced troubleshooting to minimize downtime
    • Monitor machine performance, product quality, and production targets across all machines
    • Ensure machines are supplied by coordinating and delivering raw materials, paper rolls, and blanks
    • Provide operational support or operate any machine as required to maintain continuous production
    • Provide hands-on support to Assistant Operators during start-ups, jams, adjustments, and troubleshooting
    • Assign and manage break schedules to maintain uninterrupted production
    • Operate a forklift in accordance with company policies and safety procedures

    Quality Control

    • Inspect finished products to ensure quality standards and specifications are met
    • Print and verify labels for all finished pallets from all machines
    • Ensure scrap is removed, emptied, and transported to the trailer properly
    • Accurately track scrap and enter data into SAP

    Maintenance

    • Coordinate preventive maintenance (PM) activities and communicate equipment issues to Maintenance and Supervisors
    • Perform basic machine repairs
    • Clean bottom oil filters
    • Add and empty white mineral oil
    • Adjust and repair tape machines
    • Adjust feeding section fingers, belts, and sensors
    • Communicate effectively with Maintenance to repair or replace broken parts

    Support

    • Support, coordinate, and assign Assistant Operators to each machine
    • Train and coach Assistant Operators on safe work practices, quality standards, and machine operation
    • Train new employees in machine operation and safety procedures
    • Prepare and submit daily production reports to the Supervisor

    Compliance/Other Tasks

    • Verify Assistant Operators consistently comply with all company policies and procedures including GMP, PPE, HACCP, LOTO, and JSA regulations.
    • Maintain accurate production, downtime, and scrap records in SAP and/or Excel.
    • Use SAP to add materials to work orders using scanners and computer systems; confirm work orders and put-away transactions; check and update inventory accuracy; and schedule work orders while properly coding downtime.
    • Enter and manage production data using Excel.

What Sabert employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Sabert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sayreville, NJ, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

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