Paper Machine Supervisor

Job summary:

As a Paper Machine Supervisor, you will be responsible for overseeing the production process on the paper machine, ensuring that the machine is running at maximum efficiency, and meeting all quality and production goals. You will supervise a team of machine operators, ensuring that they are properly trained and following all safety procedures. You will also be responsible for troubleshooting any issues that arise during production, performing regular maintenance on the machine, and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time. The ideal candidate for this position will have experience working in a manufacturing environment, strong leadership skills, and a solid understanding of paper production processes.

Duties and responsibilities:

1. Supervise a team of machine operators to ensure that they are following all safety procedures and operating the paper machine in a safe and efficient manner.

2. Monitor the production process to ensure that the machine is running at maximum efficiency and meeting all quality and production goals.

3. Troubleshoot any issues that arise during production, such as equipment malfunctions or product defects, and take appropriate corrective action.

4. Perform regular maintenance on the paper machine, including cleaning, lubricating, and replacing parts as needed.

5. Ensure that all necessary paperwork, such as production reports and maintenance logs, is completed accurately and on time.

6. Train new machine operators and provide ongoing training and guidance to existing operators to ensure that they are continuously improving their skills.

7. Collaborate with other departments, such as maintenance and quality control, to ensure that the paper machine is operating smoothly and meeting all production and quality goals.

8. Stay up to date on new technologies and processes related to paper production and make recommendations for process improvements or equipment upgrades as needed.

9. Maintain a safe and clean work environment by enforcing safety procedures and practices and ensuring that equipment and work areas are kept clean and organized.

10. Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Required skills and qualifications:

1. High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field preferred.

2. At least 5 years of experience working in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years of experience in paper production.

3. Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a team of machine operators.

4. Solid understanding of paper production processes, including pulp preparation, stock preparation, and paper machine operation.

5. Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot issues and take appropriate corrective action.

6. Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with team members, management, and other departments.

7. Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.

8. Strong attention to detail, with the ability to accurately complete paperwork and maintain detailed records.

9. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong work ethic and a dedication to quality.

10. Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as needed.

11. Knowledge of safety procedures and practices, with a commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.

12. Experience with computer systems and software, including Microsoft Office and production monitoring systems.

Work environment and physical demands:

As a Paper Machine Supervisor, you will work in a manufacturing environment, spending most of your time on the production floor overseeing the paper machine and interacting with machine operators. This can be a noisy and fast-paced environment, with the need to be constantly vigilant to ensure the safety of yourself and your team. You may also need to work in confined spaces or at heights, depending on the layout of the facility.

The physical demands of the job include standing or walking for long periods of time, as well as bending, stooping, and lifting up to 50 pounds. You may also need to climb ladders or stairs to access parts of the machine or perform maintenance tasks.

Overall, this is a challenging and rewarding role that requires a combination of technical knowledge, leadership skills, and dedication to quality. If you have a passion for manufacturing and a desire to be part of a dynamic team, then this may be the perfect opportunity for you.

Salary and benefits:

According to industry data, the average salary for a paper machine supervisor is around 75,000 USD per year, with ranges anywhere from 58,000 USD to 95,000 USD annually based on experience, location, and company. However, it’s important also to consider the potential for bonuses and incentives that may accompany the position. Often, leadership roles come with potential for performance-based pay structures to enable higher earning potential.

Some common benefits include health, dental, vision and life insurance, retirement savings plans, disability insurance, and paid time off. However, specific benefit packages can vary significantly based on employer, industry, and location.

Beyond earning potential and benefits, the paper machine supervisor role offers an opportunity to advance in a long-term career in manufacturing. Advancement potential varies but can include promotions into plant manager or operations manager roles or even into corporate leadership. Demonstrating a dedication to maintaining high-quality operations and investing in on-the-job learning can open doors to other leadership opportunities and potentially increased earning potential.