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Paper Mill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paper Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Do you thrive on hands-on problem-solving and leading a team to success? We're looking for a motivated Paper Machine Operator to become a key player in our paper mill operations! This isn't just a ...

Mill Manager- Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$147K - $250K/yr

Responsible for the overall management of a paper mill facility. Key Responsibilities: * Oversees daily operating strategies with emphasis on meeting financial, operating, quality, service and safety ...

Responsible for the overall management of a paper mill facility. Key Responsibilities: * Oversees daily operating strategies with emphasis on meeting financial, operating, quality, service and safety ...

Paper Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN ยท On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Do you thrive on hands-on problem-solving and leading a team to success? We're looking for a motivated Paper Machine Operator to become a key player in our paper mill operations! This isn't just a ...

Environmental Manager

Eastover, SC ยท On-site

$108K - $112K/yr

... the promise of paper to educate, communicate and entertain the world. Come grow with us ... Actively collaborates with mill operating and maintenance personnel to sustain and improve overall ...

Assistant Mill Chemist

Valparaiso, IN ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Are you a chemical engineer or paper science professional ready to take your hands-on technical ... Monitor laboratory equipment and train operators on technical and chemical concepts to build a ...

Sr Process Engineer - Paper Machine

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

Able to condense information from manuals and drawings and explain to the mill operators * Quality ... B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Paper Science, or related field from an accredited university

Sr Process Engineer - Paper Machine

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

Able to condense information from manuals and drawings and explain to the mill operators * Quality ... B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Paper Science, or related field from an accredited university

General Information Job ID ATR61976 Posting Job Title Paper Mill Shift Supervisor Locations VA ... Interprets and enforces company policies, standard operating procedures, and safety regulations.

Paper Mill Department Manager Job Code: MOPOM5 + Sr. Mgr, Mfg Ops Location: Evadale, TX The ... Support development of operating financial plan for the department and monthly variance analysis

Sofidel America of Inola, OK is currently seeking a Pulp Feeding Operator in Paper Mill Dept. We are searching for a candidate who is local to the area and is looking for a long-term role in a stable ...

The WestRock Paper Mill in West Point, VA is currently seeking a Production Supervisor for the ... Facilitate the training of each crew member to maximize operator proficiencies. * Initiates and ...

Mill Production - Entry Level (P)

Longview, WA ยท On-site

$23.41 - $27.55/hr

General Information Posting Job Title Mill Production - Entry Level - Longview Mill Locations WA ... We are seeking entry level operators for the pulp, paper or logistics departments. Our operators ...

Supv, Mfg Ops

Evadale, TX ยท On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Utilize the Paper Mill Department's Standard Operating Procedures, Paper Machine Department's General Operating Procedures, Operating Guidelines and Grade Recipes * Assist with the review and ...

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Paper Mill Operator information

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How much do paper mill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper mill operator in the United States is $20.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 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.
More about Paper Mill Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Paper Mill Operator jobs? Cities with the most Paper Mill Operator job openings:
What states have the most Paper Mill Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Paper Mill Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Paper Mill Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,326 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

$24.86/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in all areas of the designated department (Extruder or Paper Machine).

  • Conduct minor maintenance activities and routine inspections of equipment based on preventative maintenance routes, check sheets, and frequencies.

  • Maintain a clean working environment by complying with procedures and housekeeping responsibilities.


Job description

Where you will workThe 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.