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Paper Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SOFIDEL

Paper Machine Leader

Inola, OK · On-site

As a Paper Machine Tender, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

wicor

Utility Operator - Paper Machine

Urbana, OH · On-site

Utility Operator - Paper Machine 700 W Court St, Urbana, OH 43078, USA Full Time On Site Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment Join our team and ...

Essity

Machine Operator

Menasha, WI · On-site

$45.43/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 ...

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

$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 Aug 22, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% 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.

Extruders_Paper Machine

Clearwater Paper

Lewiston, ID

$24.86/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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

Where you will work
The Lewiston mill is the largest of Clearwater Paper’s facilities, producing paperboard and boasting over 700 talented employees. Approximately two hours away from Clearwater Paper’s headquarters in Spokane, Washington, the Lewiston paper mill is a key component in Clearwater Paper’s business strategy.  

Located on the border of Idaho and Washington, Lewiston provides a host of opportunities for those who love the outdoors including fishing, boating, camping, and skiing.  There are several social and civic opportunities to participate in including Boys & Girls Club, Twin County United Way, Lewis Clark Partners Habitat for Humanity, and more. Clearwater Paper values involvement with the community and the partnerships created as a result. 

Lewiston is in close proximity to the University of Idaho, Washington State University, and Lewis-Clark State College, as well as several strong K-12 school districts.  

What you will do

  • Assist in all areas of the designated department (Extruder or Paper Machine)
  • Fill in as needed due to time off vacancies
  • Assist other Operators as needed throughout the department
  • Conduct minor maintenance activities
  • Conduct routine inspections of equipment in areas of responsibility based on preventative maintenance routes/check sheets/frequencies
  • Attend and apply training provided by the Company, both job and department specific
  • Hold self and others to high level of safety standards, ensuring workplace safety policies are upheld and safety rules are followed (lockout/tagout procedures, appropriate PPE, safe driving practices, etc.)
  • Participate as needed in safety incidents and help investigate root cause
  • Maintain a clean working environment by complying with procedures and housekeeping responsibilities
  • Able to work in a physically demanding environment including temperature extremes, loud noise, avoiding slipping, tripping, and falling hazards
  • Physically capable of manual labor that includes bending, walking, sitting, and climbing in and around machinery and equipment for entire 12-hour shift
  • Able to lift, up to 40 lbs frequently, between 40 and 50 lbs occasionally
  • Work environment includes exposure to compressed air, steam, lubrication oil, dust, and hydraulic fluid
  • Able to wear and comply with all personal protective equipment (eye and ear protection, steel toed shoes, etc.)

In order to be considered for this opportunity, applicants will be required to first complete a pre-employment assessment.  The invitation for this assessment will be provided immediately after completing the application and via email. Assessments take approximately 35 minutes to complete. Please complete as soon as possible so as not to delay your consideration for this position. If you have any questions, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team at Talent.Acquisition@clearwaterpaper.com.

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