Technical Assistant-Paper Machine

About the role

The Paper Machine Technical Assistant supports the Paper Machine Area Process Manager with leadership, coordination, and technical expertise to optimize day-to-day mill operations.

Responsibilities

• Support Paper Machine Area Safety and Environmental Results.
• Lead process problem solving and optimization to improve OME and Machine Performance.
• Supervise Paper Machine Chemical Suppliers and manage chemical trials and optimization.
• Provide product quality leadership, investigate customer issues and claims, and conduct machine trials.
• Support the Mill’s Process Control Team to maintain and optimize QCS and DCS controls.
• Assist the Paper Machine Team and Reliability Group in reliability investigations and timely completion of RCFA action items.
• Serve as the Mill’s 5S Champion.
• Support the Mill ME Group in identifying and implementing cost reduction projects.
• Participate in the development and execution of capital projects.
• Assist the Paper Machine Area Manager and Learning Leader in operator training and certification.
• Act as the first line of delegation for the Paper Machine Area Manager.

Requirements

• Minimum technical education: 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 strong computer skills.
• Direct involvement with customer service related to product and service.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and listening skills.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict management skills.
• Proven technical knowledge of the manufacturing process.
• Problem solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage and/or lead projects and teams.
• Proven leadership in guiding a customer-focused organization to meet business objectives.

Skills

• 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

Physical Demands & Working Environment

• Noise levels in excess of 90dB.
• Occasional heat exposure exceeding 100°F.
• Occasional climbing of stairs, ladders, and entry into tanks.
• Occasional transport of tools and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Must remain in a stationary position 50% of shift time.
• Ability to work in a 24/7 shift environment, including nights and weekends as required.
• Must wear all required safety equipment.

Benefits

• Health, welfare, and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, and Life insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Short-term and Long-term Disability.
• 401(k) with company-funded retirement contributions.
• Paid Time Off.
• Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement).
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance.
• Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision, and pets.

About Us

International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable customers, teammates, and shareowners to thrive. As a leader in corrugated packaging, we partner with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains, and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.