Quality Engineer

International Paper; Vicksburg (MS); On-site; USD 99,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global packaging company in Vicksburg is seeking a Quality Engineer to monitor and enhance product quality in the paper manufacturing process. The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree and should have strong analytical skills. This role includes responsibilities like data analysis and supporting troubleshooting of quality issues. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Health and welfare plans

401(k) with company contributions

Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement

Student Loan Repayment Assistance

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience in a quality or production support role in pulp and paper or related manufacturing.
• Basic understanding of containerboard properties and grades.
• Familiarity with TAPPI paper testing methods and lab equipment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and evaluate key quality parameters daily.
• Assist Quality Manager in validating tests and equipment.
• Support troubleshooting of quality issues using data analytical tools.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Effective communication

Team player

Proficient in Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Paper Science or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Data visualization tools

QCS/DCS platforms

Job description

What if you were given the opportunity and responsibility to make a difference? At International Paper, you control your destiny. We offer challenging assignments and total rewards in countries around the world. When we say infinite possibilities, we mean it. Apply now and join a community that improves people’s lives, the planet and our company’s performance by transforming renewable resources into products people depend on every day.

Position:

Quality Engineer

Physical Location:

Vicksburg Mill

Category:

Full-Time

Pay Rate:

(PL11) $99,000-$110,000

Multiple factors, including Individual experience, skills and abilities will determine where an employee is ultimately placed in the pay range.

Job Description:

The Quality Engineer is a process engineer that reports directly to the Manager of Manufacturing Excellence. This position also works closely with the Paper AMEL and Quality Manager supporting quality efforts in the paper machine area as well as improvement efforts. This role will focus on monitoring product and process quality for linerboard and corrugating medium, assisting with root cause analysis, and working with operations to optimize performance and meet customer specifications. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in papermaking, a commitment to continuous improvement and a laser focus on quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily activities in a manner that supports and drives a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence within the mill
• Monitor and evaluate key quality parameters daily
• Support the development of tools to help capture long term trends of various quality metrics with triggers for action. Collect and analyze process and lab data to detect quality trends and recommend improvements.
• Support troubleshooting of quality issues through the use of data analytical tools and analysis.
• Work closely with operations, lab, and process engineers to maintain consistent product performance and minimize waste
• Assist Quality Manager as needed to validate tests and equipment
• Assist in the resolution of customer complaints and internal quality incidents using structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone)
• Participate in machine trials, grade development projects, and cross-functional quality improvement initiatives.
• Participate in customer visits as needed for trials, quality reviews and/or customer relationship development
• Support the communication of quality results as needed
• Help maintain calibration schedules, testing procedures, and quality documentation
• Support ME team on improvement opportunities as assigned
• Assist with paper machine quality control systems (QCS), including profile tuning, setpoint reviews, and grade change validation
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed to monitor trials, mill upsets, etc.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Paper Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field
• 0–2 years of experience in a quality or production support role in pulp and paper or related manufacturing
• Basic understanding of containerboard properties and grades (linerboard, medium, recycled vs. virgin fiber)
• Familiarity with TAPPI paper testing methods and lab equipment
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Effective communicator and team player in a production environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and data visualization; experience with QCS/DCS platforms is a plus
• Willingness to work on occasion during off-shifts, weekends, or during outages for quality support

Preferred Skills (Not Required):

• Exposure to containerboard-specific quality parameters
• Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma principles
• Experience with quality management systems
• Knowledge of recycled fiber processes and stock prep quality impacts

The Benefits You Will Enjoy:

International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets.

The Career You Will Build:

Leadership training, promotional opportunities within a global company.

The Impact You Will Make:

We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 120 years. Join our team and you’ll see why our team members say they’re Proud to be IP.

The Culture You Will Experience:

International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day.

The Company You Will Join:

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. With company headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) headquarters in London, UK, we employ more than 65,000 team members and serve customers around the world with operations in more than 30 countries. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact [e-mail] or [phone].