Dry End Operator

Position Summary

The Utility Operator – Corrugator is a cross‑trained, flexible production role that keeps the 98″ Fosber corrugator running without gaps. The operator works across the corrugator’s stations — splicer, bridge and preheaters, single facer, double backer, slitter/scorer, and knife/stacker — filling in for breaks and absences, assisting with roll changes and web threading, and catching board quality issues before they reach converting. This role provides corrugator supervisors a dependable, trained resource on the machine, contributing to uptime, waste reduction, and quality. It also serves as a developmental pipeline toward full‑machine operator positions.

About ND Paper

ND Paper is a leading manufacturer of high‑quality pulp, paper, and packaging products in the United States, generating over half a billion dollars in annual sales. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nine Dragons Paper (Holdings) Limited — the world’s largest containerboard producer — ND Paper operates two integrated pulp and paper mills (Rumford, ME; Biron, WI), a packaging plant in Sturtevant, WI, and two sheeting facilities (Langhorne, PA; Fairmont, WV), producing nearly one million tons of products annually. The company employs about 1,100 people and is committed to fostering positive work environments where individuals can advance and thrive.

Key Responsibilities & Expected Results

• Demonstrate safety as a core value; actively lead safe execution of work and follow all lockout/tagout (LOTO), guarding, and PPE requirements.
• Rotate across corrugator stations as assigned, learning correct operating procedures for each position and understanding the process flow of single facer, double backer, slitter/scorer, and knife.
• Assist with roll changes, including handling rolls with overhead crane or roll cart, paper webbing, and splice preparation.
• Support preheater and wrap adjustments as directed by the machine operator or supervisor.
• Provide break relief and absence coverage across assigned stations without disrupting the run sequence; communicate any delays promptly.
• Assist the machine crew during order changes by clearing the bridge, verifying new roll setup, and confirming slitter/scorer settings.
• Support stacker and takeaway operations—removing finished sheets, stacking, and clearing the runout table—to prevent backups.
• Manage roll inventory near the corrugator: stage paper rolls in correct run sequence, report low‑stock conditions, and move consumed cores.
• Perform visual quality checks on running board (warp, adhesion, caliper, print/score placement) and flag suspect board using correct reason codes.
• Complete required quality and production paperwork accurately, including reason coding for downtime or waste.
• Operate overhead crane or roll‑handling equipment only if trained and certified; report any equipment or rigging concerns immediately.
• Maintain a clean corrugator floor by clearing trim scrap, managing paper dust, and keeping walkways free of debris.
• Move paper rolls using carts, cranes, or forklifts (if certified) in compliance with load limits and plant traffic rules; coordinate with warehouse or forklift operators when needed.
• Report downtime causes, board quality issues, material gaps, and equipment anomalies to the supervisor using correct reason codes.
• Participate in shift handoff communication to ensure incoming crews understand open issues, quality holds, or roll inventory concerns.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred; equivalent manufacturing or production experience considered.
• Prior experience in corrugated, paper, or heavy manufacturing preferred but not required.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working in a hot, fast‑paced environment with large, moving machinery.
• Basic math skills for counting, measuring, and reading order specifications.
• Reliable attendance and willingness to rotate stations and shifts as production requires.
• Ability to read and follow written work instructions in English; bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.
• Works effectively once trained and asks for direction before improvising on unfamiliar tasks.
• Overhead crane or forklift certification a plus (can be obtained on the job).
• Must be able to pass any pre‑employment screening required by plant policy.

Physical Requirements

• Stand, walk, lift, and bend throughout a full shift on a concrete production floor near a continuously running machine.
• Lifts and carries up to 50 lb regularly; assists with staged rolls using mechanical aids.
• Works in a hot environment (steam and heated rolls) with exposure to noise, paper dust, and varying temperatures.
• Required PPE includes hearing protection, safety glasses, steel‑toe footwear, and heat‑resistant gloves where applicable.
• Must be able to work assigned shift, including overtime and weekend coverage as production demands require.

Core Competencies

• Cross‑Training & Operational Flexibility
• Equipment Operation & Process Awareness
• Quality Focus & Problem Identification
• Teamwork & Responsiveness
• Safety & Work Discipline
• Reliability & Accountability

Success Profile (What Great Looks Like)

• 30 Days: Safely performs assigned tasks at one or more corrugator stations under guidance; understands LOTO, roll handling, and basic housekeeping; completes shift paperwork and reason coding accurately.
• 60 Days: Qualified to work independently at a second station; supports roll changes, web threading, and basic setup adjustments without constant direction; correctly applies waste and downtime reason codes.
• 90 Days: Qualified at three or more stations; covers breaks and short‑notice absences without disrupting the run; identifies and reports warp, adhesion, or caliper issues at the line.
• Six Months: Fully cross‑trained across all assigned corrugator stations; functions as a reliable, self‑directed coverage resource.

Schedule

1st Shift: 6 AM – 3 PM
3rd Shift: 9 PM – 6 AM (Sunday – Thursday)

Department: Corrugator
Reports to: Corrugator Supervisor
Location: Sturtevant, WI