Paper Machine Operator

Pratt Industries; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Health, dental, vision insurance

401K with company match

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

Parental leave

Uniforms provided

Safety shoe allowance

Prescription safety glasses reimb.

Discount plans

Job summary

Pratt Industries in Valparaiso, IN is seeking a Paper Machine Operator to drive efficiency in our papermaking process. You’ll set up, operate, and maintain state-of-the-art equipment in a 24/7 environment with 12-hour rotating shifts, and you will receive comprehensive, paid training even if you lack papermaking experience.

Responsibilities include problem-solving, quality testing, and working with a high-performance team to uphold safety, reliability, and continuous improvement across the mill.

Qualifications

• Requires 2–4 year degree or equivalent real-world experience.
• Desire to participate in ongoing educational and certificate training.
• Ability to read technical diagrams and perform light maintenance.
• Physically able to lift 50+ pounds and work in extreme temperatures.
• Commitment to safety and PPE compliance.
• Must pass drug test, background check, physical exam, and aptitude testing.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain papermaking equipment.
• Diagnose production issues to maximize uptime.
• Perform physical testing of materials and finished products.
• Assist with preventative maintenance and small repairs.
• Interpret data from computer systems and prepare reports.
• Monitor and train across multiple mill disciplines.
• Uphold safety practices.

Skills

Learning mindset

Mechanical aptitude

Safety awareness

Problem solving

Team training

Data interpretation

Education

Post-secondary degree or equivalent

Job description

Paper Machine Operator: Drive Innovation and Excellence in Papermaking!

Are you an ambitious, technically-minded individual ready to launch a high-impact career in a cutting-edge manufacturing environment? Do you thrive on hands-on problem-solving and leading a team to success? We’re looking for a motivated Paper Machine Operator to become a key player in our paper mill operations! This isn’t just a job; it’s a launchpad for your career. We’re seeking a multi-skilled professional who will be responsible for all aspects of paper machine production, from setup and operation to problem-solving and maintenance. You’ll join a high-performance team in a 24/7 operation working 12-hour rotating shifts, where your skills will directly contribute to our success. The best part? Previous papermaking experience is not required—we will provide comprehensive, paid training to ensure you succeed!

What You’ll Do & How You’ll Grow

• Hands-on Operations: Proactively assisting your team with setting up, operating, and maintaining our state-of-the-art papermaking equipment.
• Problem-Solving: Diagnosing and resolving production issues to ensure maximum uptime and efficiency. You’ll be the go-to person for troubleshooting.
• Quality Assurance: Performing physical testing of raw materials and finished products to maintain our high-quality standards.
• Maintenance & Improvement: Assisting with preventative machine maintenance and performing "hands-on" small repairs. You’ll use your mechanical aptitude to drive continuous improvement.
• Data & Analysis: Interpreting data from our computer systems, performing basic mathematical computations, and completing necessary reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Team Leadership & Training: Learning to monitor, control, and adjust machines and processes, as well as receiving and providing training across multiple job disciplines. Our goal is for you to become proficient in all job areas within the mill.
• Safety Champion: Upholding all established safe work practices and being ultra-cognizant of your surroundings to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

What We’re Looking For

• Education: A 2- to 4-year post-secondary degree (from a college, university, technical school, military, or other advanced institution) or equivalent real-world experience is REQUIRED.
• Learning Mindset: A proven record of learning aptitude and a strong desire to participate in ongoing educational and certificate training programs.
• Mechanical & Mental Aptitude: A working knowledge of basic computer use, the ability to read technical diagrams, and a knack for "light general maintenance." You must be able to communicate effectively, understand complex procedures, and operate a calculator.
• Physical Stamina: This is a fast-paced and physically demanding role. You must be able to stand for long periods, lift 50+ pounds (non-repetitively), climb stairs and ladders, and work in an environment with extreme temperatures.
• Safety Consciousness: A meticulous approach to safety is non-negotiable. You must be willing to wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follow all plant rules.
• Background Checks: You will be required to pass a drug test/screening, background check, physical exam, and pre-employment aptitude testing.

Exceptional Benefits & Compensation

• Lucrative Incentive Plan: Earn up to 100% of one month’s base salary every quarter through our mill incentive program!
• Tuition Reimbursement: We offer a Tuition Reimbursement/Assistance Program to help you continue your education.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans, plus a Healthy Lifestyles Program and Gym Reimbursement Program.
• Financial Security: A 401K plan with a company match, Supplemental Life Insurance, and Income Protection Plans.
• Work-Life Balance: 9 paid holidays and paid vacation, along with Child Bearing/Parental Leave.
• Additional Perks: Company-provided uniforms, a $300 Safety Shoe Reimbursement, a $250 Prescription Safety Glasses Reimbursement, and various discount plans (Wireless, Auto, etc.).
• Career Growth: Expectation to become proficient in all job areas within the mill, with practical application training that may involve travel to other Pratt Paper Mills.