---
name: paper-machine-operator
description: "Occupational skill for the role 'paper machine operator' (also: paper making machine operator, paper machine technician, paper making machine specialist, paper-making machine specialist, paper machine specialist, paper maker). Use when the user asks for typical paper machine operator work such as: Examine completed work to detect defects and verify conformance to work orders, and adjust machinery as necessary to correct production problems.; Start machines and move controls to regulate tension on pressure rolls, to synchronize speed of machine components, and to adjust temperatures of glue or paraffin.; Observe operation of various machines to detect and correct machine malfunctions such as improper forming, glue flow, or pasteboard tension."
---

# Paper Machine Operator

Paper machine operators tend a machine that takes in pulp slurry, spread it out over a screen, and drains out the water. The drained slurry is then pressed and dried to produce paper.

## Core workflow

1. Examine completed work to detect defects and verify conformance to work orders, and adjust machinery as necessary to correct production problems.
2. Start machines and move controls to regulate tension on pressure rolls, to synchronize speed of machine components, and to adjust temperatures of glue or paraffin.
3. Observe operation of various machines to detect and correct machine malfunctions such as improper forming, glue flow, or pasteboard tension.
4. Disassemble machines to maintain, repair, or replace broken or worn parts, using hand or power tools.

## How to use this skill

- Read [references/profile.md](references/profile.md) for the occupation profile and scope.
- Consult [references/tasks.md](references/tasks.md) for the full task and activity inventory.
- Check [references/skills.md](references/skills.md) for essential vs. optional competences.
- Check [references/tools.md](references/tools.md) for the software commonly used in this role.

## Key competences (essential)

- apply paper coating
- check paper quality
- concentrate pulp slurry
- monitor automated machines
- monitor paper reel
- monitor pulp quality
- operate headbox
- operate paper drying cylinders
- operate paper press
- quality standards
- set up the controller of a machine
- supply machine
- troubleshoot
- types of paper
- types of pulp

## Hot technologies

- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word

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*Sources: ESCO v1.2.1 (http://data.europa.eu/esco/occupation/4b6a55a8-8ec9-4ae2-9f62-ebcea1fa93d0), O*NET 30.3 (51-9196.00). See manifest.json for licensing/attribution.*