Paper Mill Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Lead the Production Shift Team to achieve the standards set by the Operations Manager for Safety/Housekeeping, Quality, Cost, and Production. Ensure safety is the first priority. Build positive team environment. Communicate company information to the team members in timely manner. Support and coordinate critical systems and processes to ensure consistent application of standards, policies, processes, and the collective bargaining agreement across all shifts. Build technical and team skills.

MAJOR AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

Safety/Housekeeping:

• Ensure compliance with safety policies and regulations at all times
• Report incidents immediately following defined protocol; conduct accident/incident investigations and write incident reports in timely manner; participate in Root Cause/Corrective Action meetings
• Ensure Pre-Job Hazard Assessments are conducted for non-routine tasks.
• Set and maintain high standards for housekeeping
• Work with team members to identify and resolve safety issues; ensure active participation in Safety Committee, Safety Audits, and other mill Safety processes/initiatives
• Act as Site Commander in emergency situations

Team Development:

• Build a positive team environment. Lead by example and ensure an atmosphere of mutual respect. Provide performance evaluation/feedback; conduct disciplinary meetings.
• Establish collaborative relationships with peers and managers across all functions.
• Plan and coordinate skills training with Operations Manager, Training Manager, Production Training Advisory Committee (PTAC), HR, and the Shift Team’s PTAC member. Ensure compliance with training requirements. Support team members to achieve advancement qualifications.
• Communicate Company/Mill information to team members. Lead Focus Five meetings. Participate in PTAC, Home Station Group, Safety Committee, etc., meetings as required. Coordinate team member participation in appropriate committees to ensure shift team involvement.
• Understand and apply Mill policies, procedures, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement to routine and extraordinary situations. Accept grievances and communicate to senior management in a timely manner.
• Handle time-off requests, unexpected absences, timesheet review and approval, resolving issues with HR and payroll.

Quality/Cost/Production:

• Develop technical abilities in all processes to function as independent auditor of the Team’s operation.
• Ensure compliance with Standard Operating Procedures. Participate in developing SOPs.
• Support trials. Work with suppliers/vendors as required.
• Lead team to meet all production targets and comply with operational standards and guidelines as established by functional/department managers. Lead team in troubleshooting/process analysis, and process optimization.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 3-5 years experience in recycled linerboard or corrugating medium paper mill
• Preferred: Four-year degree in Paper Science, Chemical Engineering, or similar engineering background

The role requires normal corrected vision, ability to climb stairs and catwalks; walk, sit, stand, bend, crouch, kneel, occasional lifting; ability to use computer monitor/keyboard/mouse/Human-Machine Interfaces; normal hearing/speaking to communicate through radio, phone, PA/alarm systems.

About Alsip MiniMill, LLC

Alsip MiniMill (AMM) was formed in 2015 when Corrugated Supplies Company purchased the idle lightweight coated paper mill in Alsip, Illinois. MiniMill Technologies, Inc. took the lead on the engineering, procurement, and construction in order to convert and restart the facility to produce 100% recycled Corrugating Medium. In addition to its profound impact on the local economy, AMM consumes over 250,000 tons per year of old corrugated containers and clippings, helping to keep these resources out of our landfills.

Why Work for AMM?

AMM offers a dynamic work environment focused on sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence. As a leader in recycled paper production, the company values safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With strong leadership and growth opportunities, employees can make a meaningful impact while contributing to a greener future.

As an employee of AMM, you are eligible for:

• College tuition reimbursement for dependent children (up to age 26).
• Tuition reimbursement for employees.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Paid vacation time.
• Wellness programs and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

The annual salary range for this role is $84,000-$141,000.