Senior Papermaker - Lead Operations & Travel Opportunities

Sappi; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market leading leave benefits

Employee wellbeing benefits

Opportunities to travel

Job summary

Sappi in Mpumalanga is seeking a seasoned Papermaker to establish and maintain standards for paper machine setup and operation, while guiding mill teams with technical expertise. The role focuses on improving machine performance, product quality, and safety through continuous improvement.

You will manage machine clothing and equipment, participate in shutdown planning, mentor staff, and drive troubleshooting with data analysis.

Qualifications

• Matric with Math and Physical Science or an N3 in Pulp and Paper.
• BTech in Pulp and Paper Technology or related field.
• Experience: 8+ years supervising on a paper machine.
• Total 12+ years in the pulp and paper industry.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and implement SOPs for paper machine operations.
• Act as SME, providing technical advice to optimise performance.
• Manage machine clothing and equipment (doctors, ropes, felts, etc.).
• Participate in shutdown planning, isolations and permits.
• Troubleshoot processes, analyse data and drive improvements.
• Mentor and assess staff; support operating licences.
• Investigate customer complaints and ensure product quality.
• Conduct research to improve processes and equipment.

Skills

Team leadership

Mentoring

Technical guidance

Process improvement

Education

Matric with Math and Physical Science or an N3 in Pulp and Paper

Bachelor of Technology in Pulp and Paper Technology or related field

8 years' supervisory experience on a paper machine

12 years’ relevant experience in the pulp and paper industry

Job description

Sappi in Mpumalanga is seeking a seasoned Papermaker to establish and maintain standards for paper machine setup and operation, while guiding mill teams with technical expertise. The role focuses on improving machine performance, product quality, and safety through continuous improvement.

You will manage machine clothing and equipment, participate in shutdown planning, mentor staff, and drive troubleshooting with data analysis.