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Paper Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Machine Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/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

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/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

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/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

Machine Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/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

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Position : Machine Operator - Flexo Folder Gluer, Flexo Press, Jumbo, RDC Shift: 1st Location ... Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,500 highly ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Position :Machine Operator - Flexo Folder Gluer, Flexo Press, Jumbo, RDC Shift: 1st Location ... Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,500 highly ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer, Flexo Press, Rotary Die Cutter, Jumbo Shift: 2nd Location ... Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,500 highly ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer, Flexo Press, Rotary Die Cutter, Jumbo Shift: 2nd Location ... Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,500 highly ...

... and paper products while maintaining optimal press speed and minimal downtime. The ideal candidate will also work closely with Machine Operators to ensure smooth production flow and consistent ...

... and paper products while maintaining optimal press speed and minimal downtime. The ideal candidate will also work closely with Machine Operators to ensure smooth production flow and consistent ...

Experience: 3+ years of equivalent experience or experience multi-tasking in a fast-paced work environment with 6+ months of machine operator experience; experience in paper packaging manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Paper Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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 is a paper machine operator?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paper machine operator?

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 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 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 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 and troubleshooting issues.

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:

Infographic showing various Paper Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA • On-site

Novolex
Plastics Packaging Film and Sheet (including Laminated) Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Novolex rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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 Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring

Compensation:

  • Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -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:

  • Assist with the operation of assigned Extrusion Machines at the required pace.
  • Work with the Machine Operator A's to maintain production flow and conduct light troubleshooting. 
  • Perform general set-up, change-over, and shut-down tasks.
  • Monitor all extrusion and winding machinery operations continuously for quality and efficiencies.
  • Diagnose/troubleshoot mechanical machine problems and make 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 the 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 as needed.
  • Communicate production information, both written and verbal.
  • Perform other assigned duties as assigned.

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.

#INDFGR

Company BenefitsWhat You'll Get From UsBenefits

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

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Novolex employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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