Engineering Co-Op – Manufacturing & Process Improvement

Clearwater Paper Corporation; Augusta, Lewiston (GA, ID); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Clearwater Paper Corporation seeks an Engineering Co-Op to gain a broad understanding of manufacturing while supporting the development, implementation, and maintenance of systems under supervision.

This onsite role offers exposure to process improvements, safety, and project delivery at Augusta GA, Cypress Bend AR, or Lewiston ID mills, with collaboration across departments. The position requires a motivated, independent candidate who can analyze data and contribute to team goals.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemical, electrical or pulp and paper engineering with a 2.5+ GPA.
• Ability to quickly learn new systems and analyze data to support decisions and problem-solving.
• Self-starter mindset with the ability to work independently and move ideas forward.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Project).

Responsibilities

• Support process improvement projects involving chemicals, mechanical improvements, machine trials, and new technologies.
• Promote safe operating practices and support safety of operations, maintenance, and staff.
• Lead one or more projects from initiation through completion during the summer.
• Conduct tests and investigations to evaluate potential process changes.
• Research process equipment, obtain quotes, coordinate product trials, and make recommendations for purchases.
• Assist with developing standard operating procedures and training materials.
• Provide engineering support to other departments as needed.
• Present project updates and a final presentation at conclusion.

Skills

Data analysis

Self-starter

Independent initiative

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemical, electrical or pulp and paper engineering

Tools

Word

Excel

Access

PowerPoint

Project

Job description

Job Summary
As an Engineering Co-Op at Clearwater Paper, you will have the exciting opportunity to work on value-adding projects and gain a general knowledge of manufacturing. Engineering Co-Ops will work under the supervision of our Department Managers to develop, implement, and maintain our systems to meet business objectives and goals.

This opportunity will be based onsite at one of our three fully integrated mills, which includes Augusta, GA, Cypress Bend, AR or Lewiston, ID.

Essential Functions

• Support process improvement projects involving chemicals, mechanical improvements, machine trials, and new technologies
• Promote safe operating practices and support the safety of operations, maintenance, and staff personnel
• Lead one or more projects from initiation through completion during the summer
• Conduct tests and investigations to evaluate potential process changes
• Research process equipment, obtain quotes, coordinate product trials, and make recommendations for purchases
• Assist with developing standard operating procedures and training materials
• Provide engineering support to other departments as needed
• Present project updates throughout the Co-Op and a final presentation at its conclusion
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemical, electrical or pulp and paper engineering with a 2.5+ GPA in major
• Ability to quickly learn new systems and analyze data to support decisions and problem-solving
• Self-starter mindset with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and move ideas forward
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Project
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and integrity
• Ability to respond to emergency situations in a timely manner
• Ability to work an 8-hour Monday–Friday schedule, with occasional early mornings, nights, or weekends as business needs require
• Must pass an alcohol/drug screen before each Co-Op session

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in manufacturing and operational areas, including eye and hearing protection, hard hat, and steel-toed footwear
• Work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, odors, temperature variations, and industrial conditions
• Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling as required by the role
• Extended periods of standing, walking, and working on concrete or uneven surfaces
• Climbing stairs, ladders, platforms, or elevated work areas as required by the role

Clearwater Paper will not offer sponsorship for employment-based visa status (including, but not limited to, H-1B visa status and other employment-based nonimmigrant visas) for this position. Accordingly, all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis and must not require Clearwater Paper's sponsorship to continue to work legally in the United States.

This role will be open for a minimum of 2 weeks or at the point a successful candidate is selected.