Plant Optimization Engineer (Plano, TX)

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is a Fortune 500 ideas‑and‑solutions company that provides corrugated packaging and paper products to customers nationwide. With approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 U.S. locations, PCA’s mission is to exceed customer expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

About the role

The Plant Optimization Engineer (POE) is a 2‑year rotational development program for recent engineering graduates (0‑2 years experience). Participants rotate through Maintenance and Production departments at a corrugated box plant in Plano, TX, completing hands‑on technical training, engineering process‑optimization projects (e.g., scrap reduction, throughput improvements, downtime reduction), and providing engineering support across plant functions. After successful completion, engineers transition to a full‑time role in a career path aligned with their skills and interests, such as plant leadership or management in Production or Maintenance.

Principle Accountabilities

• Rotate through all departments at the corrugated plant, completing assigned learning objectives and technical training.
• Organize and implement moderate to large process improvements, problem‑elimination, and capital/expense projects focused on asset health and reliability.
• Recommend and help drive innovative solutions to improve equipment, facility, and plant operations.
• Attend and participate in POE program conferences and assigned off‑site training.
• Collaborate with other Plant Optimization Engineers, plant leadership, and machine/maintenance operators to complete projects.
• Work with the POE mentor/manager to conceptualize a career path within the program.
• Follow company policies and procedures, share information that benefits the team, and seek ways to improve service delivery to customers.
• Support PCA’s Commitment to Service by focusing on value‑adding strategies, growth support, and keeping promises to customers.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in engineering (required).
• 0‑2 years of engineering experience, including internships or co‑ops, providing technical support in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Ability to work first, second, or third shift during the production rotation as needed.
• Self‑driven, passionate about hands‑on manufacturing work.
• Willingness to travel as necessary with valid travel documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least one internship or co‑op, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Paper, Industrial & Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, or Engineering Technology (other engineering majors considered based on experience).
• Experience with AutoCAD, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), shop‑floor software, and maintenance work‑order systems.
• Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Statistical Process Control (SPC) experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication with production teams and management.
• Quick learner who can apply new knowledge in practice.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Strong listening, evaluating, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to generate alternative solutions and meet deadlines.
• Leadership experience or strong leadership potential.
• Ability to network and build relationships across all professional levels.
• Team‑oriented mindset with an appreciation for open communication and information sharing.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting salary range: $83,000 – $86,000. Annual bonus based on individual contribution and overall company performance.

• Paid vacation: three (3) weeks per calendar year (pro‑rated for the first year based on start date).
• Paid holidays.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage eligible within the first 30 days (dependents included); automatic enrollment in life, AD&D, and disability coverage.
• Automatic enrollment in the 401(k) plan with pre‑tax and Roth contribution options and employer matching contributions.