Paper Goods Machine Operator

Your Fit

Income

$49K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-11.0%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Paper Goods Machine Operator?

A Paper Goods Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery that produces various paper products, including paper bags, containers, and boxes. They ensure the efficient and quality production of paper goods.

Sample job titles:

Cup Room Technician, Folder Machine Operator, Paper Machine Backtender, Paper Machine Operator

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Paper Goods Machine Operator.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Paper Goods Machine Operator earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$37K per year	$44K per year	$49K per year	$59K per year	$69K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $110 below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Paper Goods Machine Operator do?

Work environment

Operators typically work in manufacturing plants or factories dedicated to paper goods production. These environments can be noisy and may require working with heavy machinery. Shift work is common, and operators may need to stand for extended periods.

Quick task list

Sets up and operates paper goods machines.
Monitors machinery for proper function and quality output.
Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
Adjusts machine settings for different production jobs.
Keeps records of production quantities and quality.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Corrugated cardboard production
Specialty paper products manufacturing
Paper recycling and processing
Quality control in paper goods production

Description

Paper Goods Machine Operators play a crucial role in the paper manufacturing industry. Their primary responsibility is to operate the machinery that produces a wide range of paper products. This involves setting up the machine for specific types of products, adjusting operational speed, and ensuring that materials are fed correctly into the machine. Operators need a good understanding of the machinery, as they are responsible for minor repairs and routine maintenance to prevent breakdowns and production delays.

A key aspect of the job is quality control. Operators must constantly monitor the output to ensure that the finished products meet the required specifications. They adjust machine settings as needed to correct any defects and ensure consistent quality. Keeping accurate records of production quantities, machine settings, and maintenance activities is also part of their responsibilities.

Safety is paramount in this role, as operators work with large, potentially dangerous machinery. They must adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents. Good physical stamina is required, as the job often involves standing for long periods and occasionally lifting heavy materials.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Operating and mastering complex machinery.
Contributing to the production of essential everyday items.
Seeing the tangible results of one's work in the form of finished products.

You might make a good Paper Goods Machine Operator if you are...

Interested in machinery and manufacturing processes.
Detail-oriented with a focus on quality.
Skilled at problem-solving and basic mechanical tasks.
Able to adhere to safety guidelines and protocols.
Comfortable working in a factory setting with shift schedules.

Pros:

Opportunities to work with a variety of machinery.
Steady employment in an established industry.
Satisfaction from producing tangible, useful products.

Cons:

Potential for repetitive tasks.
Exposure to noise and machinery-related hazards.
Physical demands, including standing for long periods.

How to become a Paper Goods Machine Operator

Typical education

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient. On-the-job training is typically provided, and some positions may require or benefit from additional vocational training in machine operation.

High school preparation

Courses:

Industrial arts or shop classes for basic machinery skills.
Mathematics for calculating production metrics.
Physical science to understand machinery mechanics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in technical clubs, like robotics or engineering.
Team sports or physical activities to build stamina.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in machine operation or industrial manufacturing.
Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in manufacturing to gain hands-on experience.
Continuing education courses in industrial safety and machinery maintenance.

More resources

TAPPI (Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry) - Provides resources and training for the paper industry.
O*NET Online - Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders - Detailed occupational information.
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) - Offers industry insights and manufacturing resources.
CareerOneStop - Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, provides career and training resources.

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