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Paper Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hood Container Corporation

Manage paper machine operations to meet production, quality, and cost objectives. * Maximize ... Develop and implement short- and long-term operating plans and capital improvement initiatives.

Domtar

J1 Paper Machine Supervisor

Johnsonburg, PA · On-site

Four or more years of operating experience on paper machines. * Demonstrate basic papermaking knowledge as well as familiarity with basic troubleshooting skills and techniques to solve quality and ...

Domtar

J1 Paper Machine Supervisor

Johnsonburg, PA · On-site

Four or more years of operating experience on paper machines. * Demonstrate basic papermaking knowledge as well as familiarity with basic troubleshooting skills and techniques to solve quality and ...

SKL'D

Machine Operator

Duluth, GA

$18/hr

Paper Machine Operator - 3rd shift Location: Duluth, GA Schedule: 3rd Shift, Sunday-Wednesday, 10:00 PM-6:00 AM Pay: $18.00/hour Job Type: Temp-to-Hire Job Summary We are hiring an experienced ...

Domtar Corporation

Four or more years of operating experience on paper machines. * Demonstrate basic papermaking knowledge as well as familiarity with basic troubleshooting skills and techniques to solve quality and ...

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Paper Machine Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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.
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Paper Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Paper Machine Superintendent

Lewiston, ID • On-site

Clearwater Paper Corporation
Paper Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Clearwater Paper Corporationexternal

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Clearwater Paper rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary
The Paper Machine Superintendent leads manufacturing operations to ensure safe, environmentally compliant, and efficient production. Accountable for operational performance, workforce leadership, product quality, continuous improvement, and achievement of business objectives.
Essential Functions
Safety amp; Environmental
  • Track safety performance and manage safety programs including training, safety meetings, safe work practices, and resolution of performance concerns
  • Evaluate and maintains safety SOPs, guidelines, and procedures to support compliance and operational excellence
  • Review safety incidents, participates in root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions
  • Conduct safety observations, employee interactions, and compliance reviews to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements
  • Support behavioral safety initiatives and develop leaders to effectively promote safe work practices
Leadership
  • Establish strategic direction for manufacturing operations by assessing current state, defining future goals, and executing plans to close gaps
  • Provide leadership, coaching, and support to build a culture of safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement
  • Drive performance through effective resource management, employee engagement, and achievement of business objectives
  • Develop and manage operating budgets, control expenses, and support capital improvements to enhance productivity and efficiency
  • Build organizational capability through mentoring, cross-functional collaboration, and development of future leaders
Production amp; Quality
  • Set operational priorities, coordinate activities across departments, and manage resources to achieve production goals
  • Ensure availability of raw materials and resources to support consistent production performance
  • Ensure products meet quality specifications and customer requirements
  • Partner with Quality and Technical teams to resolve issues and improve processes
  • Maintain and update training materials to support effective operations and employee development
Continuous Improvement
  • Lead process improvement initiatives by identifying and eliminating waste and non-value-added activities
  • Apply problem-solving methods to address employee and production issues, implement corrective actions, and ensure sustainable results
  • Collaborate across departments to coordinate activities, resolve challenges, and improve overall performance
  • Communicate process, policy, and procedure changes resulting from improvement initiatives to impacted employees
  • Other duties as assigned
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in related field required. May consider equivalent work experience in lieu of degree
  • 7+ years of operations leadership experience in the pulp and paper industry
  • 4+ years of supervisory experience, including performance management, coaching and employee development
  • Knowledge of industry operations, machinery, equipment, and manufacturing processes
  • Advanced systems aptitude and strong computer skills, including Microsoft Excel
Physical Demands amp; Work Environment
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in manufacturing and operational areas, including eye and hearing protection, hard hat, and steel-toed footwear
  • Work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, odors, temperature variations, and industrial conditions
  • Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling as required by the role
  • Extended periods of standing, walking, and working on concrete or uneven surfaces
  • Climbing stairs, ladders, platforms, or elevated work areas as required by the role
Total Rewards Details
We prioritize an exceptional workplace experience, offering a comprehensive total reward package. This position is eligible for our Incentive Plan. Compensation ranges are estimates based on market data. Actual offers account for internal equity and candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, and geographic location. Benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and more, generally begin after 30 days. Our paid time off will include vacation days, personal days, and company holidays. For more on our compensation philosophy, please reach out to our Talent Acquisition Team at Talent.Acquisition@clearwaterpaper.com.
Clearwater Paper will not offer sponsorship for employment-based visa status (including, but not limited to, H-1B visa status and other employment-based nonimmigrant visas) for this position. Accordingly, all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis and must not require Clearwater Paper's sponsorship to continue to work legally in the United States.
This role will be open for a minimum of 2 weeks or at the point a successful candidate is selected.

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