INTERN/CO-OP PROCESS - Spring 2027

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company. Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds. Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers. Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

People

• Customers
• Trust
  
  

The primary function of the Process Engineer co-op student will be to assist the technical department in the completion of tasks that contribute to the efficient and cost-effective operation of the paper mill.

Responsibilities Include

• Coordinate and evaluate trials on the paper machines, pulp mill, secondary fiber, or other parts of the mill.
• Conduct routine pulp and paper tests that are required for evaluation of trials or for trouble shooting on the machines.
• Monitor key process sensing equipment to determine accuracy and reliability. If a problem is detected implement the repair.
• Conduct routine pulp quality tests on a weekly basis. These tests include efficiencies, consistencies, and critical solids verifications, along with any others tha6t are deemed necessary.
• Conduct periodic monitoring of key consistency loops on stock chests. Also, interface with the E/l Department in order to improve loops that are not functioning correctly.
• Order and maintain routine laboratory supplies and chemical solutions.
• Assist in the start-up of paper machines from monthly shutdowns.
• Conduct critical paper machine maintenance inspections.
• Update lab MSDS's for materials and chemicals used in the lab.
• Other duties as needs and interest arise.
  
  

Educational Requirements/Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled student majoring in Chemical or Paper Engineering and have completed the freshman year but not surpassed senior status at University of Maine, Michigan Tech University, Western Michigan, Michigan State.
• A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required.
• You must be eligible to work in the US on a full time basis.
  
  

Abilities/Skills

• Strong written, verbal, analytical, and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Candidate must display maturity and a high level of professionalism.
  
  

Employer Expectations

• The Co-op student must take ownership of their work and work area.
• The ability to work with other lab personnel, operators, and supervisors is a requirement.
• A positive work attitude is essential.
  
  

Housing/Relocation Information for Co-Op Term:

• A housing stipend may be offered up to $1000 grossed-up per month if necessary
• PCA will reimburse the student for the move to their new housing upon starting the co-op and return to school.
  
  

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

Compensation And Benefits

• Starting salary for position: $27.00 - $30.00 per hour.
• Paid Holidays.
• Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision – and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
• Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.
• Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA’s good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.