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Paper Mill Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sappi

Mill Reserve / Production Operator

Cloquet, MN · On-site

$29.33/hr

Experience working in a physically demanding role and/or in an industrial manufacturing/paper mill setting High school diploma or equivalent is required. A valid drivers license is required. The ...

pca

Capital Engineer

International Falls, MN · On-site

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Principle Responsibilities : * Coordinate and manage mill capital projects, with a focus on ...

pca

Process Engineer

International Falls, MN · On-site

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Principle Responsibilities : * Provide technical and operating support to departments, support groups ...

pca

Shift Supervisor

International Falls, MN

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Riverside area on shift. The process areas may ...

pca

Environmental Specialist

International Falls, MN · On-site

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Job Information: Key priorities may include NPDES and Title V Air Permit Management, Ash Land ...

pca

Millwright

International Falls, MN

$24.50 - $32/hr

We are seeking applicants for a Millwright in our International Falls, MN Paper Mill. The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America.

pca

Garage Mechanic Millwright

International Falls, MN

$25.75 - $32.25/hr

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Responsibilities : Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures. Work as part of a ...

pca

Pipefitter

International Falls, MN · On-site

$24.50 - $31.25/hr

We are seeking applicants for a Pipefitter in our International Falls, MN Paper Mill. The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America.

pca

Machinist

International Falls, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

The International Falls facility is a White Paper Mill owned by Packaging Corporation of America. Responsibilities : Work as part of a team in support of a paper manufacturing operation with a goal ...

Sappi

Process Engineer Co-op

Cloquet, MN · On-site

Sappi's pulp and paper Mill in Cloquet, Minnesota, is looking for energetic, self-motivated Paper Science, BBE, Chemical and/or Environmental Engineering students to fill co-op positions in the ...

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Paper Mill information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do paper mill jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper mill in Minnesota is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paper mill worker?

Paper mill workers are employees who operate and maintain the machinery used to manufacture paper products from raw materials like wood pulp or recycled paper. Their responsibilities include monitoring production processes, ensuring quality standards, performing maintenance, and troubleshooting equipment. Paper mill workers often work in teams and may specialize in areas such as pulping, papermaking, or finishing. The role requires attention to safety protocols due to the use of heavy machinery and chemicals.

What are the qualifications to work in a paper mill?

The qualifications needed to work in a paper mill depend on your responsibilities. To be a mill operator, you need to have a high school diploma or GED certificate, as well as job training under more experienced machine operators. You also need excellent mechanical and technical problem-solving skills. Managers typically have several years of experience working in a mill, including at least a year in a supervisory position. Quality control workers need to have a strong grasp of the technical specifications of the materials and paper goods they inspect and knowledge of regulatory compliance. Service technicians need mechanical training and strong computer skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paper mill worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paper Mill Worker, you need a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and experience using computerized control systems is valuable. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills help ensure efficient production, maintain quality standards, and promote a safe work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in a paper mill, and how can they be managed?

Working in a paper mill often involves managing heavy machinery, maintaining safety standards, and handling repetitive tasks in a fast-paced environment. Employees may face challenges such as exposure to noise, dust, and varying temperatures, as well as the need for constant attention to detail to avoid equipment malfunctions. To manage these challenges, it's important to follow safety protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and participate in regular training sessions. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and coworkers also play a vital role in maintaining a safe and productive workspace.

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

AspectPaper MillPaper Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma; on-the-job training or technical certification
Work EnvironmentFactories or manufacturing plants, often noisy and industrialInside paper machines, working on production lines in industrial settings
Industry UsageBroad term encompassing various roles in paper manufacturingSpecific role focused on operating paper machines
Job FocusOversees entire paper production process or manages multiple rolesOperates and monitors paper machines to produce quality paper

While a Paper Mill refers to the entire manufacturing facility producing paper, a Paper Machine Operator is a specific role within that facility responsible for running the paper machines. The operator ensures smooth operation and quality control, whereas the mill encompasses all processes and staff involved in paper production.

More about Paper Mill jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota?

For Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Paper Mill jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Paper Mill jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Paper Mill job openings:

Paper Mill jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paper Mill job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,477 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Mill Reserve / Production Operator

Cloquet, MN • On-site

Sappi
1 - 5K employees

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about Sappiexternal

$29.33/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

The purpose of the Mill Reserve position is to provide relief to production employees. This is a full-time bargaining unit position, with a starting wage of $29.33/hour offering a full benefits package. The normal schedule for this position is a 12-hour rotating shift schedule. The four on, four off schedule will include two 12 hour day shifts, followed by two 12 hour midnight shifts. The Cloquet Mill operates 24/7.
Job Requirements:
  • Strict adherence to safety rules, policies, and best practices.
  • Wear proper safety equipment which will include safety glasses, steel toed boots/shoes, and may require hard hat, respirator, face shield or gloves.
  • Work cooperatively as a part of a team.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work area.

Duties may include:
  • Operate machinery such as fork/clamp trucks, overhead cranes, and other heavy equipment.
  • Feed raw materials into production machinery.
  • Monitor the production process, to include frequent computer use with multiple screens.
  • Inspect finished products for defects to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Maintain logs and records.
  • Perform minor maintenance activities.

Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged exposure to noise, heat, dust and dirt.
  • Working around and with heavy, fast moving equipment and chemicals.
  • Must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the entire body. This will include climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, carrying, bending, kneeling, crouching, crawling, pushing/pulling, squatting, and stooping.

Preferred Experience and Licenses:
  • State Boiler License highly preferred, or ability to obtain licensure.
  • Experience safely using forklifts or other heavy equipment preferred.
  • Shiftwork experience.
  • Experience working in a physically demanding role and/or in an industrial manufacturing/paper mill setting

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
A valid drivers license is required.
The purpose of the Mill Reserve position is to provide relief to production employees. This is a full-time bargaining unit position, with a starting wage of $29.33/hour offering a full benefits package. The normal schedule for this position is a 12-hour rotating shift schedule. The four on, four off schedule will include two 12 hour day shifts, followed by two 12 hour midnight shifts. The Cloquet Mill operates 24/7.
Job Requirements:
  • Strict adherence to safety rules, policies, and best practices.
  • Wear proper safety equipment which will include safety glasses, steel toed boots/shoes, and may require hard hat, respirator, face shield or gloves.
  • Work cooperatively as a part of a team.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work area.

Duties may include:
  • Operate machinery such as fork/clamp trucks, overhead cranes, and other heavy equipment.
  • Feed raw materials into production machinery.
  • Monitor the production process, to include frequent computer use with multiple screens.
  • Inspect finished products for defects to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Maintain logs and records.
  • Perform minor maintenance activities.

Physical Requirements:
  • Prolonged exposure to noise, heat, dust and dirt.
  • Working around and with heavy, fast moving equipment and chemicals.
  • Must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the entire body. This will include climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, carrying, bending, kneeling, crouching, crawling, pushing/pulling, squatting, and stooping.

Preferred Experience and Licenses:
  • State Boiler License highly preferred, or ability to obtain licensure.
  • Experience safely using forklifts or other heavy equipment preferred.
  • Shiftwork experience.
  • Experience working in a physically demanding role and/or in an industrial manufacturing/paper mill setting

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
A valid drivers license is required.
Salary is determined by a number of factors including the value of the job to the organization, market forces, internal equity and skills brought to the job.
Sappi provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sappi complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Salary is determined by a number of factors including the value of the job to the organization, market forces, internal equity and skills brought to the job.
Sappi provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sappi complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
ABOUT SAPPI
Sappi is a leading global provider of everyday materials made from woodfibre-based renewable resources. As a diversified, innovative and trusted leader focused on sustainable processes and products, we are building a more circular economy by making what we should, not just what we can.
HR Contact for Questions:
Name: Jennifer Hoffman
Email: jennifer.hoffman@sappi.com
Telephone number: (218) 879-0623

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