Paper Machine Operator

Pratt Industries, Inc.; Wapakoneta (OH); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition Reimbursement

Health Insurance

Gym Reimbursement

401K with company match

9 paid holidays

Paid vacation

Job summary

Pratt Industries, Inc. in Ohio is seeking a Paper Machine Operator to join a 24/7 mill. Training is provided; no prior papermaking experience is required to start, with paid instruction and on‑the‑job coaching.

You will set up, operate, and maintain advanced papermaking equipment, troubleshoot issues, and monitor quality while learning across multiple mill disciplines and contributing to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Education: 2–4 year post-secondary degree or equivalent experience required.
• Proven learning aptitude and commitment to continuous education.
• Mechanical aptitude, basic computer literacy, read diagrams and perform simple maintenance.
• Physical stamina to stand long hours, lift 50+ lbs, and work in demanding environments.
• Must pass drug test, background check, physical exam, and pre-employment aptitude testing.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain papermaking equipment.
• Diagnose production issues to maximize uptime and efficiency.
• Perform material testing to ensure quality standards.
• Assist with preventative maintenance and small repairs.
• Interpret plant data and complete required reports accurately.
• Learn and train across multiple mill disciplines; support team goals.
• Uphold all safety practices and PPE requirements.

Skills

Hands-On Operations

Problem-Solving

Quality Assurance

Maintenance & Improvement

Data & Analysis

Team Leadership & Training

Safety Consciousness

Education

2- to 4-year post-secondary degree

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

As a Paper Machine Operator, you'll be at the heart of our operations. Your core responsibilities and learning opportunities will include:

• 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

We're searching for a dedicated and driven individual with the following qualifications:

• 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

We value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your career and personal life.

• 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.