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Paper Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essity

Machine Operator

Menasha, WI · On-site

$30.83/hr

About the Role As a Paper Machine Operator, you will start your career learning the support skills of the Winding/Slitting/Finishing end of a large Paper Machine process as part of a team of four or ...

Westrock

Mgr I, Mfg Ops

Longview, WA · On-site

$93K - $155K/yr

The Paper Machine Asst Supt is also responsible for the direction of an Operations Maintenance Coordinator, process engineering support, operator training program, and union hourly employees assigned ...

Teksky

Machine Superintendent

Madawaska, ME · On-site

Oversee daily operations of paper machine production through team supervision, schedule management ... Maintain and enforce Management Operating Systems across the department. * Provide financial data ...

Magnera Corporation

Machine Operator

Mount Holly, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator has the qualifications and business acumen to provide support by setting up ... paper machine by ensuring the start-up cart has a roll and is in proper position and help feed ...

Magnera Corporation

Machine Operator

Mount Holly, NC

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator has the qualifications and business acumen to provide support by setting up ... paper machine by ensuring the start-up cart has a roll and is in proper position and help feed ...

Magnera Corporation

Machine Operator

Mount Holly, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator has the qualifications and business acumen to provide support by setting up ... paper machine by ensuring the start-up cart has a roll and is in proper position and help feed ...

Seaman Paper

Machine Operator

Orange, MA

$18 - $25/hr

Seaman Paper, headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, is a leading global manufacturer of ... The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of ...

Magnera Corporation

Machine Operator

Mount Holly, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator has the qualifications and business acumen to provide support by setting up ... paper machine by ensuring the start-up cart has a roll and is in proper position and help feed ...

Magnera Corporation

Machine Operator

Mount Holly, NC

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator has the qualifications and business acumen to provide support by setting up ... paper machine by ensuring the start-up cart has a roll and is in proper position and help feed ...

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Paper Machine Operator information

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How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 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.
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What states have the most Paper Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Paper Machine Operator jobs include:
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Paper Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Paper Cup Machine Operator (Days / Nights - Rotational Schedule) $500 HIRING BONUS!

Paper Cup Machine Operator (Days / Nights - Rotational Schedule) $500 HIRING BONUS!

WinCup

Tolleson, AZ • On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

WinCup rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Paper Cup Machine Operator - Tolleson, AZ
This position offers a HIRING BONUS of $500 for new hires, see HR for terms and conditions.
WinCup is a foodservice packaging company focused on providing our customers and consumers the highest quality products allowing them to enjoy the beverages and foods they love, whether at home, or on the go.
Trusted since 1962, WinCup was established in 1962 and is now a leading manufacturer passionately transitioning into an innovative, technology driven enterprise focused on creating superior products and brands directly addressing plastic pollution.
WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology. Our Phade line of PHA based straws and stirrers is the only Marine Biodegradable, Home and Industrial Compostable straws and stirrers in the world!
We are passionately committed to the environment, excellence, innovation and growth.
For additional information regarding WinCup and our ground-breaking and environmentally friendly products, check us out at:
https://WinCup.com
https://PhadeProducts.com
https://viofoam.com/
We are a dynamic, diverse and inclusive team bound together by our shared Values of:
  • One Team
  • Performance Based; Rewards & Recognition Driven
  • Excellence in All We Do
  • Respectful and Engaged Leadership
  • Always Do the Right Thing

Here at WinCup we are proud to offer our valued, full-time Team Members a competitive, comprehensive compensation and benefits package with most benefit eligibility beginning just 31 days post hire, including medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans. We also offer paid time off (PTO) and holidays, short & long-term disability, and an Team Member Assistance Plan (EAP). And, to top it off, we offer a 401(k) plan with a generous company match available after only 60 days of employment.
So, if you are passionate about working on exceptional brands driven by innovation that will leave a lasting and positive impact on the environment, keep reading to see if you think you might make a great addition to our growing team!
Job Title: Paper Cup Machine Operator (Days / Nights - Rotational Schedule)
Department: Production
Supervisor's Title: Production Supervisor
Location: Tolleson, AZ
Work Type: On-Site (Not a Remote Position)
Day Schedule 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Night Schedule 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, plus $3 shift differential
Job Summary
The Paper Cup Machine Operator is responsible for operating, maintaining and monitoring specialized paper cup forming machinery that manufactures, assembles and transports high quality paper cups.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  1. Responsible for powering up machine by switching the power breaker.
  2. Maintains cup transport channels to prevent cups from becoming dirty.
  3. Ensures machinery is free of debris, glue residue, dust, and paraffin/wax.
  4. Secures machine safety guards.
  5. Feeds the paraffin (waxed) paper machine.
  6. Monitors inventory levels of paper stock, ensures paper is feeding correctly into the machine and adjust the gluing mechanism.
  7. Ensures compliance of quality parameters between the rim and tip of the cups, quantity of cups per bag or case, and ensure cups are not glued or stuck to each other.
  8. Checks for leakage in cups.
  9. Troubleshoots machinery and conducts quality control inspections regularly.
  10. Maintains housekeeping and cleanliness in the work area.
  11. Troubleshoots machinery, identifies and documents mechanical and/or electrical risks in the forming machine on a daily production log and communicates with supervisor.
  12. Tracks and makes requests for raw materials and supplies from the supervisor as needed.
  13. Maintains assigned work tools and equipment.
  14. Complies with all safety rules, PPE, polices, procedures and practices to include performing lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) of equipment when required.
  15. Performs other duties as assigned by the Production Lead, Shift Supervisor or Department Manager.

The list of job requirements above is not intended to be exhaustive and all inclusive. The Company reserves the right to revise this job description as needed to comply with actual job requirements.
Qualifications:
Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED

Experience:
  • Must have at least one year in a manufacturing environment, paper industry preferred.
  • Previous experience operating paper cup forming machinery, preferred.

Skills:
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Basic Math skills.
  • Mechanical aptitude.
  • Ability to function independently.
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English.
  • Good oral and written communication skills.

Physical Demands (Manufacturing Plant):
The characteristics listed below are representative of the physical demands required by an individual to successfully perform the essential duties of a position in our manufacturing plants. Note that office positions located within our Manufacturing Plants often require some plant floor presence throughout the day so that while these demands may not always apply, they should still be noted.
  • Team Member will frequently be required to actively listen and exchange information.
  • Team Member will be required to observe and assess information in a fast paced environment.
  • Requires frequent use of a production, manufacturing equipment and/or machinery including forklift, densifier, melter and baler.
  • Will be required to frequently move/transport materials weighing up to 50 pounds which may require frequent bending, twisting and reaching motions.
  • Team Member may be required to remain stationary for extended periods of time.
  • Team Member may be required to stand for long periods up to 8, 10 or 12 hours shifts.
  • Team Member may be required to talk, walk, sit; use hands to finger, handle and feel objects, tools, and controls; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crawl or crouch.

Working Conditions (Manufacturing Plant):
The characteristics listed below are representative of the work environment typically encountered by an individual while performing the essential duties of a position in our manufacturing plants. Note that office positions located within our Manufacturing Plants often require some plant floor presence throughout the day so these work environment details may not always apply, they should still be noted.
  • Work space is one that contains moving mechanical parts.
  • Requires work in an indoor manufacturing environment that may be exposed to extreme heat that is not air conditioned.
  • Work environment contains loud noises and odors that may last for long periods of time or on a continual basis as well as occasional airborne particles.
  • Must wear PPE while working, which includes hairnet, hearing protection and safety glasses with side guards at all times.
  • Ability to work an 8+, 10+ or 12+ hour shifts as designated.
  • Able to work weekdays, weekends and overtime as designated.

WinCup reserves the right to revise or update this job description as needed to better comply with the actual essential function of the job requirements as business needs dictate.
Pre-employment Requirements:
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of e-verify, a drug screening and background check.
WinCup is an EEO/AA and E-Verify employer. At WinCup we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the diversity and strengths of our Team Members, our customers, and community.
We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or any other protected characteristic. We firmly believe that a diverse organization creates opportunities for all individuals to showcase their talents, both independently and collaboratively. Diversity fuels our ability to be truly innovative by embodying our values, driving our success, and fostering an environment where every Team Member can thrive and perform at their very best.
To ensure the safety of our team members in the workplace, we perform background and drug screenings.
Thank you for considering WinCup and helping us make a difference!

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