Performs routine tasks in a paper and pulp mill such as placing logs onto conveyors for chipping, and loading woodchip and pulp for processing.

• Loads digester with raw materials and chemicals; regulates and adjusts the temperature and pressure within the digester; tests samples by titration or standard colour test to determine completion of process; drains liquid from digester and monitors removal of the cooked pulp; takes samples of bleached material for testing; washes bleached material and blends to obtain uniform quality; may be required to add chemicals during the bleaching process and make chemical or electrolytic tests; undertakes the addition of size, fillers, dyes, alum and chemicals, and tests for correct consistency; ensures transfer of completed batch to storage tanks where it is kept under agitation to maintain consistency; may mix and cook colouring matter for dyeing product in the machine; controls flow of wet pulp through rotary screens to paper making machines; operates drier and calendar rollers; operates supercalendar to impart gloss and finish to surface of paper; operates machine to glaze or impregnate paper with coating mixture; separates sheets from felts and lays sheets in packs, re-presses packs; separates sheets from pack and dries.

• Works indoors in a dirty, noisy and sometimes hot environment with a range of often large machinery. Will wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment including gloves, ear and eye protection.

• Medium to heavy physical demand. Stands frequently when carrying out most work which is often on concrete floors. Employees often work shifts.
• Frequently walks about the work area to monitor and adjust machines and to observe that there are no production problems.
• May occasionally stretch up and across when working on equipment and physically adjusting machines.
• Squatting or crouching may be required on an occasional basis.
• Employees do not usually twist the body or neck, or bend.
• Constantly works with specialised paper-making equipment as part of a variety of operations necessary for production. Works with equipment that may have moving parts, including large rollers, heat producing elements and cutting blades.
• Frequently lifts and carries items of equipment and may move some smaller boxed finished paper items by hand.
• Repetitive hand and arm movements are required on an occasional basis.
• Driving is not a significant requirement, but may operate forklifts or loaders.
• Uses a range of computer systems to monitor machines.
• Mental skills necessary include practical, technical and problem-solving skills.

An NZQF Level 2 or 3 qualification, or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4).

For some occupations a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.
• There is little opportunity to modify work demands to suit physical needs.