1

Paper Mill Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Baler/Loader Operator 1 Pay Rate : $20.74/hr Category/Shift : Hourly Full-Time Monday - Friday ... Monitor paper feed line * Monitor wire condition and feed * Monitor bales for mill readiness ...

CCS provides industrial cleaning and spill response to almost every pulp and paper mill in the ... Experience operating specialized equipment such as vacuum trucks, 80bbl, 120bbl, or other ...

Physical Location : [Springfield Mill 801 42nd Street Springfield, OR 97478 541-741-5700 Category ... Monitoring, adjusting, and controlling operating equipment * Conducting tests and inspections of ...

Paper Mill Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$21

$29

How much do paper mill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper mill operator in Oregon is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Paper Mill Operator vs Paper Machine Tender?

AspectPaper Mill OperatorPaper Machine Tender
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma; technical training or certification beneficial
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, operating machinery in a paper millSame manufacturing plant, focusing on operating and monitoring paper machines
Job ResponsibilitiesOperating paper production equipment, monitoring quality, maintaining machineryAdjusting machine settings, troubleshooting, ensuring continuous paper production

Both roles work within paper manufacturing plants, requiring technical skills and machinery operation. While Paper Mill Operators oversee overall production and quality, Paper Machine Tenders focus more on operating and fine-tuning paper machines during production. The roles are closely related, often overlapping, but differ slightly in scope and specific duties.

What are some common challenges Paper Mill Operators face during their shifts, and how can they effectively address them?

Paper Mill Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and managing tight production schedules. To address these issues, operators are trained to troubleshoot equipment quickly, follow strict safety and maintenance protocols, and communicate effectively with team members and supervisors. Staying vigilant and proactive, as well as participating in ongoing training, helps operators adapt to changing production demands and minimize downtime.

What does a Paper Mill Operator do?

A Paper Mill Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the machinery used to produce paper products in a manufacturing facility. Their duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting controls, inspecting finished products for quality, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. Operators must ensure that safety and environmental regulations are followed while keeping the production process running smoothly. They may also handle raw materials, keep detailed records, and perform basic maintenance on equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paper Mill Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paper Mill Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, computerized control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and maintain a safe working environment in the mill.
What are popular job titles related to Paper Mill Operator jobs in Oregon? For Paper Mill Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Paper Mill Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Mill Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Paper Mill Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Paper Mill Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Paper Mill Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,751 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Baler Operator 1

$20.74/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

320th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Title:           Baler/Loader Operator 1

Pay Rate:                   $20.74/hr

Category/Shift:        Hourly Full-Time  Monday - Friday

Physical Location:   800 N. 48th Street, Springfield, OR 97478

The Job You Will Perform: 

  • Complete pre-start loader maintenance inspection report (or VCR)

    • Responsible for feeding paper from tipping pad to baler conveyor (all facets of loading the baler)

  • Operate balers according to brand specifications (MacPress, Enterprise, Bollegraff, IPS)

  • Load the baler utilizing either the front loader, skid steer or forklift

  • Record grade, percentage of waste in compactor dumped material

  • Monitor paper feed line

  • Monitor wire condition and feed

  • Monitor bales for mill readiness including:

    • Adequate wiring

    • Proper grade and quality

    • Weight

  • Record maintenance activity on equipment

  • Record baler downtime

  • Assist with daily weekly monthly PMs for baler and feed conveyors

  • Operate shredder and follow all NAID requirements for document destruction

  • Ensure driveway is free of material

  • Keep paper/plastic from accumulating around property fence line

  • Prevent loose paper from accumulating at the rail dock area

  • Clean pit monthly or as needed

  • Remove material build-up from incline conveyors

  • Assist with pushing material from inside bunkers onto conveyor

  • Communicate paper grade to Material Handler to ensure proper storage

  • Inform Material Handler of any rejected bales

  • Communicate with Plant Lead - maintenance issues, downtime, production issues

  • Report the completion of all paper goods to obtain alternate assignment

  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment according to plant housekeeping standards
  • Attend and participate in plant safety meetings
  • Manage controllable costs through proper equipment, tool and consumable usage 
  • Report any safety or maintenance concerns
  • Adhere to Plant policies and guidelines

  • Other duties may be assigned

The Skills You Will Bring:

  • Must be 18 years of age

  • Must be authorized to work in the United States

  • Ability to work any shift as needed

  • Ability to work overtime as needed

  • Ability to read, write and speak English fluently

  • Alertness, visual ability, and good communication skills

  • On-the-job success in safety, attendance & quality of work expected
  • Ability to safely replace wire spools

  • Ability to be trained on safe baler operation, including Lock-out, Tag out procedures

  • Ability to operate a Baler, In-feed Conveyors, Forklift, Front Loader, Skid Steer
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.


What International Paper employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


International Paper logo

About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898