Area Operations Manager - Paper Mill

Area Operations Manager

The Area Operations Manager plays a critical role in the success of mill operations and is a key member of the mill leadership team. Reporting to the Business Unit Leader, this role provides leadership across paper mill operations, with a strong focus on safety, productivity, and continuous improvement while developing high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead productivity and continuous improvement initiatives that deliver measurable results


• Implement and utilize systems to effectively manage performance, quality, and safety


• Provide leadership coverage for operations as needed, including filling in for machine or area managers


• Set clear expectations and hold teams accountable to safety, production, and quality standards


• Lead, coach, and develop both hourly and salaried employees


• Promote strong safety leadership and foster a culture of accountability and engagement


• Collaborate effectively with peers and cross-functional partners across the mill

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills


• Proven ability to lead teams in a 24-hour, multi-crew manufacturing environment


• Demonstrated success driving organizational effectiveness and developing talent


• Ability to manage change and lead improvement initiatives


• Strong computer and systems aptitude


• Proven teamwork and collaboration skills within a paper mill or similar industrial setting


• Strong commitment to safety leadership and continuous improvement

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Paper Science, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent technical training and experience


• 5+ years of experience in coated, wood-free paper manufacturing operations


• Extensive operational experience including:




• On-machine coating


• On-machine calendering


• Winder operations




• Experience in large, high-speed coated paper operations preferred