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Paper Mill Jobs in Rhinelander, WI (NOW HIRING)

Ahlstrom's Rhinelander paper mill has immediate openings for General Laborers. General Laborers receive training in paper machines, coating preparation, stock preparation, shipping. If you have a ...

Ahlstrom's Rhinelander paper mill is HIRING NOW for an Electrical and Instrumentation (E&I) Apprentice. The Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) Apprentice works under the guidance of licensed or ...

Production Laborers

Tomahawk, WI

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

The Tomahawk Mill is a 24-hour operation; candidates must be able to work any assigned rotating ... Pulp & Paper industry experience preferred. At least 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing ...

Supervise and direct mechanical maintenance across the mill to ensure maximum uptime and ... paper, pulp, heavy industrial preferred) * Proven success leading teams in a 24/7 operation

Paper Mill information

See Rhinelander, WI salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do paper mill jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper mill in Rhinelander, WI is $19.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $21.83 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.

What are popular job titles related to Paper Mill jobs in Rhinelander, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Paper Mill jobs in Rhinelander, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Paper Mill jobs in Rhinelander, WI are:

What cities near Rhinelander, WI are hiring for Paper Mill jobs?

Cities near Rhinelander, WI with the most Paper Mill job openings:

Infographic showing various Paper Mill job openings in Rhinelander, WI 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 $40,385 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Future Papermakers Needed

Ahlstrom

Rhinelander, WI • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Ahlstrom rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

You have a choice of where you want to work! We invite you along on our journey to Purify and Protect, with Every Fiber, for a Sustainable World. We aim to attract, retain, and energize passionate people, like you, by investing in your professional development and providing opportunities for personal growth.
Do your values align with ours? Accountability, Growth mindset, One team, Care and a fair and inclusive work environment for everyone, everywhere!
We strive to meet the highest standards of corporate citizenship by protecting the health and safety of our team, safeguarding the environment, and creating a long-lasting, positive impact on the communities where we do business. Are you with us?!?
Ahlstrom's Rhinelander paper mill has immediate openings for General Laborers. General Laborers receive training in paper machines, coating preparation, stock preparation, shipping. If you have a good work ethic and are looking for not just a job, but a long-lasting career, Ahlstrom offers fast growth and advancement opportunities:
  • Competitive pay starts at $28.15/hr with opportunities and earnings potential over $70k in their first year!
  • Vacation benefits begin after successfully completing probation
  • Paid on-the-job training

Key Responsibilities
  • Safety mindset - apply safety standards continuously and participate in safety improvement initiatives throughout the facility.
  • Assist Equipment Operators as required with the ability to learn the next level job.
  • Haul and hoist materials using powered industrial trucks and cranes; load and unload material from machines.
  • Assist with quality inspections.
  • Basic data entry into the applicable computer systems.

Qualifications
  • No experience necessary! We provide paid training in our safe and team-focused environment.
  • Must have a high regard for safety and teamwork
  • Good mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to complete a post-offer drug test, background screening, and physical examination.

Physical Occupational Requirements
  • Work in a hot and humid environment
  • Push and pull up to 100 pounds of force at waist height
  • Crawl/Crouch under 40" for up to 8 feet
  • Lift from floor and carry up to 50 pounds for at least 15 feet
  • Kneel or squat for 30 or more seconds
  • Hold 10 pounds at arm's length with shoulders at 90 degrees
  • Walk up to 1000 feet continuously
  • Climb 30 stairs
  • Climb up to 21 steps on a vertical ladder

What we offer
  • Medical, dental, vision coverage
  • Competitive 401(K) plan - eligible to start day 1 of employment
  • Gainshare profit sharing bonus program
  • ...and more!

Work Schedule and Location
  • Location: 515 W. Davenport Street, Rhinelander WI (On-Site)
  • Schedule: Ability to work rotating shifts up to 16 hours, including weekends, holidays, and nights; the paper mill is a 24/7 manufacturing operation utilizing a rotating schedule; Overtime is required.

If you're eager to learn and are looking for not just a job, but a career we want to invest in you.
Apply today & start your career with Ahlstrom!
Ahlstrom is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal opportunity is a sound and just concept to which we are firmly bound. Ahlstrom will not engage in discrimination against, or harassment of, any person employed or seeking employment with our company based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, non-disqualifying disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.
About Us. Ahlstrom is a global leader in combining fibers into sustainable specialty materials. Our purpose is to Purify and Protect, with Every Fiber, for a Sustainable World. We aim to be the Preferred Sustainable Specialty Materials Company for all our stakeholders. Our Filtration and Life Sciences, Food and Consumer Packaging, and Protective Materials segments, along with the Performance Materials Cluster, address global trends with safe and sustainable solutions. Our net sales in 2025 amounted to EUR 2.9 billion and we employ some 7,000 people.
Read more at www.ahlstrom.com.

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