Paper & Pulp SME

Absolute Applications; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading tech firm is seeking a Paper & Pulp SME in the UK. The role involves serving as the technical authority in paper manufacturing, conducting detailed mill analysis, and implementing optimization strategies. With a requirement for 15+ years experience in the industry and a background in relevant engineering fields, the position offers remote work with occasional travel. Strong leadership and analytical skills are essential for guiding teams towards improved performance and sustainability.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in pulp & paper manufacturing, preferably in integrated mills.
• Strong understanding of mill optimization and quality parameters.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical authority for all paper manufacturing activities.
• Analyze mill data to identify bottlenecks and implement corrective actions.
• Lead process optimization and energy efficiency programs.
• Collaborate with R&D for new grade development.
• Train and mentor engineers and operators.

Skills

Fiber line operations

Paper machine operations

Quality parameters

Chemical dosing and process control systems

Process troubleshooting and optimization

Knowledge of automation systems

Environmental and sustainability practices

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Education

B.E. / B.Tech. / M.Tech. in Paper Technology, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical / Process Engineering

Job description

Paper & Pulp SME (Ideally Technology Engineering background / Operations)

Remote Work from the UK with availability to travel as per client request

Rate negotiable

Initial 4 Month Contract

Role Overview :

The Paper Domain SME will serve as the technical authority for all paper manufacturing, pulp processing, and mill optimization activities. The role demands deep industry knowledge, process expertise, and a strong ability to guide cross-functional teams in achieving excellence in quality, productivity, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

You will act as the bridge between operations, process engineering, digital transformation, and R&D, helping to improve mill performance, reduce costs, and drive continuous improvement across all production units.

Key Responsibilities :

Provide technical leadership and domain expertise for paper and pulp processes — from pulping, bleaching, and refining to papermaking, coating, and finishing.

Analyse mill data to identify bottlenecks, quality issues, and process deviations; implement corrective and preventive actions.

Lead process optimization and energy efficiency programs, focusing on reducing raw material waste, steam / electricity consumption, and downtime.

Standardize operating parameters, best practices, and KPIs across mills for consistent product quality and yield.

Collaborate with R&D and product teams for new grade development (e.g., kraft paper, duplex board, fluting, testliner, specialty papers).

Support capital projects — including feasibility studies, machine upgrades, and process redesigns.

Train, mentor, and develop the technical capability of engineers and operators in paper mill operations.

Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety standards.

Work closely with digital transformation teams to implement data-driven decision systems and predictive maintenance solutions.

Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) for chronic production and quality issues.

Benchmark mill performance against industry standards and recommend continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications & Skills :

B.E. / B.Tech. / M.Tech. in Paper Technology, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical / Process Engineering.

15+ years of experience in pulp & paper manufacturing (preferably integrated mills).

Strong understanding of :

• Fiber line operations (pulping, bleaching, washing)
• Paper machine operations (forming, pressing, drying, coating)
• Quality parameters (basis weight, moisture, strength, brightness)
• Chemical dosing and process control systems

Proven success in process troubleshooting, optimization, and cost reduction.

Knowledge of automation systems (DCS, QCS) and process monitoring tools.

Familiar with environmental and sustainability practices (effluent treatment, emission control, recycling).

Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.