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Pulp and Paper Operator

Pulp and paper operators control various chemical and physical processes used in the manufacture of pulp and paper products from wood and waste paper.

The pulp and paper industry uses many different machines and technologies to manufacture products.

Plant operators are generally classified according to the process they operate, from initial pulping of woodchip and waste paper through to producing paper products.

Pulp and paper operators generally work in teams and in shifts.

Working conditions vary from control room based to field inspections.

Work can be physically demanding and may be repetitive.

TASKS

Pulp and paper operators may perform the following tasks:

operate specialised high-speed machines to manufacture paper according to strict technical standards
operate chemical and/or mechanical pulping plants made up of complex, interrelated process control loops
operate equipment that converts large rolls of paper product into smaller rolls, reams and sheets according to customer requirements
operate equipment that coats or finishes paper products, through perforating, embossing, laminating, printing, bonding and other methodsequipment that folds, wraps or packages paper products
inspect samples of products and laboratory reports, and adjust plant operations to maintain output and product quality standards
compile production records and reports

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

problem-solving skills
able to handle multiple tasks
mechanical and numerical aptitude
interested in sustainable solutions
high level of health and safety awareness
able to work as part of a team and under limited supervision
enjoy practical and manual activities

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a pulp and paper operator without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

You can also become a pulp and paper operator through a traineeship in Pulping Operations or Papermaking Operations.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Industry standards require pulp and paper operators to hold a licence to Perform High Risk Work in order to operate a range of loadshifting equipment, such as forklift trucks and overhead cranes. See the separate entries for Forklift Operator or Crane Operator for details.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Pulp and Paper Manufacturing

Industries Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Pulp and paper operators work for mills that manufacture products such as containers, boxes, disposable paper products, family hygiene products, paper bags, newsprint, and printing and writing paper.

Paper mills are generally located close to the raw material needed to produce pulp and paper, and therefore are only found in select states.

Manufacturers operate in both city and country locations, but to assist with efficient and cost-effective transport, paper mills are often located close to the raw material needed to produce pulp and/or the transport hubs used to distribute the products.