Co-Op Process Engineer - Spring 2027

Packaging Corporation of America; Jackson (AL); On-site; USD 31,684 - 42,705; Full time

Job summary

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is offering a cooperative learning position at the Jackson mill. The role focuses on process improvement, data analysis, and project work alongside engineers and operations staff.

Selected students will participate in projects covering design, construction, and optimization efforts throughout the production line, with emphasis on safety and efficiency. Training and real-world experience are provided within PCA’s manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• GPA 3.0/4.0 or higher is required.
• Pursuing a degree in Paper Science or Engineering or related field.
• Strong communication, analytical and computer skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate projects during design and construction.
• Assist with software and hardware checkout on new systems and control strategies.
• Build and implement equipment maintenance databases.
• Perform data collection and analysis for production optimization.
• Work with engineers, maintenance, consultants, contractors, vendors, and operations.
• Coordinate inspection programs for tanks and pressure vessels.
• Work on projects to optimize chemical usage in pulping process.
• Automate data collection and reporting for production benchmarks.

Skills

Communication

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Education

GPA 3.0/4.0 in relevant field

Pursuing Paper Science or Engineering degree

Tools

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

MS Office

Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company. Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers - large and small - package, transport and display products of all kinds. Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers. Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

This will be a learning and development position at the Jackson mill. As a co‑op with PCA, the selected individual will work closely with all members of the department by participating in process improvement projects. The individual will be assigned project work including process optimization and studies, process safety evaluations, data analysis, capital project scope and justification, and other process related projects.

Principle Responsibilities:

• Coordinate projects during design and construction.
• Assist with software and hardware checkout on new systems and control strategies.
• Build and implement equipment maintenance databases.
• Perform data collection and analysis for production optimization.
• Work with engineers, maintenance, consultants, contractors, vendors, and operations.
• Coordinate inspection programs for tanks and pressure vessels.
• Work on special projects to optimize chemical usage in the pulping process.
• Automate data collection and reporting for production benchmarks.

Basic Qualifications:

• A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required.
• Must be a permanent U.S. resident, requiring no sponsorship.
• Currently attending a participating University (Mississippi State University, The University of Mississippi, Auburn University, University of Alabama, University of South Alabama, University of Maine, University of North Carolina State, University of Miami Ohio, Georgia Tech, University of Tennessee or Tennessee Technology University, majoring in Paper Science or Chemical/Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or other related majors).
• Exhibit excellent communication, analytical and computer skills (proficient in MS Word, Excel, and Power Point).
• Self‑starter and be able to work on projects and interpret results with little oversight.
• Must be willing and able to work any shift, weekends, holidays, and overtime, as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Any previous industrial exposure is of benefit.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Starting salary for position: $27.00 per hour.

Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre‑tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.

Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA's good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.