Technical Assistant-Paper Machine

International Paper; Henderson (KY); On-site; USD 83,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

International Paper is seeking a Technical Assistant-Paper Machine to support the Paper Machine Area Process Manager with leadership, coordination, and technical expertise to optimize mill operations. You will drive process improvements, supervise chemical suppliers, lead safety and reliability initiatives, and collaborate with control teams to maintain QCS and DCS performance.

The role involves collaboration across teams, overseeing capital projects, and training operators to ensure high

Qualifications

• BS or higher in chemical or mechanical engineering, pulp and paper technology, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in pulp and paper.
• Hands-on education/training, maintenance planning and scheduling with high degree of computer skills.
• Direct involvement with customer service related to product and service.

Responsibilities

• Lead process problem solving and process optimization to improve OME and Machine Performance.
• Supervise Paper Machine Chemical Suppliers and Manage Chemical Trials and Optimization.
• Investigate customer issues and claims and coordinate machine trials for product quality.
• Support Mill’s Process Control Team to assure QCS and DCS controls are maintained and optimized.
• Support Paper Machine Area Manager in Reliability investigations and RCFA action items.
• Assist Paper Machine Area Manager and Learning Leader in Operator Training and Certification.

Skills

Safety participation

Maintenance planning

Scheduling

Computer skills

Customer service

Education

BS or higher in chemical or mechanical engineering

Pulp and paper technology or equivalent experience

Job description

Position

JOB DESCRIPTION: Technical Assistant-Paper Machine

Pay Range

($82,500-$110,000)

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

PURPOSE

The Paper Machine Technical Assistant is responsible for assisting the Paper Machine Area Process Manager with leadership, coordination, and technical expertise to support and optimize the day-to-day operations of the mill.

Key Accountabilities

• Support the Paper Machine Area Safety and Environmental Results.
• Lead process problem solving and process optimization to improve OME and Machine Performance.
• Supervise Paper Machine Chemical Suppliers and Manage Chemical Trials and Optimization.
• Paper Machine’s Product Quality Leadership and Responsible for Investigating Customer Issues and Claims and Machine Trials.
• Support Mill’s Process Control Team to assure QCS and DCS controls are maintained and optimized.
• Support the Paper Machine Team and Reliability Group in Reliability Investigations and Timely Completion of RCFA Action Items.
• Support Mill Team as 5S Champion.
• Support the Mill ME Group to identify and implement Cost Reduction Projects.
• Participate in the development and execution of capital projects.
• Assist Paper Machine Area Manager and Learning Leader in Operator Training and Certification.
• First in line for delegation of authority for the Paper Machine Area Manager.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• Noise levels in excess of 90dB.
• Heat in excess of 100 ° F occasionally.
• Occasionally ascends/descends stairs, ladders and into tanks
• Occasionally transports tools and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of shift time
• Must be able to work in a 24/7 shift environment, nights and weekends as required.
• Must be able to wear all required safety equipment

Key Knowledge/Experience

Minimum

• Technical education consisting of BS or higher in chemical or mechanical engineering, pulp and paper technology, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in pulp and paper.
• Active participation in safety, problem solving and other committee/team activities.
• Hands‑on experience in education/training, maintenance planning and scheduling with high degree of computer skills.
• Direct involvement with customer service related to product and service.

Preferred

• Yellow Belt Certification, with plans to complete Green Belt Certification
• Demonstrated leadership skills combined with technical knowledge and operations experience in pulp and paper manufacturing processes.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation and listening skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict management skills.
• Strong technical knowledge related to the manufacturing process. Problem solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage and/or lead projects and teams of people.
• Proven leadership ability in guiding a customer‑focused organization to meet its business objectives.

CAREER ARCHITECT COMPETENCIES

• Action Oriented
• Managing Through Systems
• Approachability
• Motivating Others
• Building Effective Teams
• Organizing
• Conflict Management
• Planning
• Confronting Direct Reports
• Priority Setting
• Customer Focus
• Problem Solving
• Drive for Results
• Process Management
• Integrity and Trust
• Timely Decision Making
• Listening

About Us

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

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 125 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. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.

The Company You Will Join

International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever‑changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

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. International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. 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].