Maintenance Mechanical Apprentice

Packaging Corporation of America’s DeRidder, LA Paper Mill seeks applicants possessing safety leadership skills for the following position in its maintenance department:

Starting pay: $26.52 per hour. During the 4‑year apprenticeship period, successful candidates with a satisfactory performance rating will receive pay increases every six (6) months.

• Work with key mechanical, electrical and process personnel to support daily and monthly maintenance outages as well as annual outage jobs
• Work with mechanical maintenance/engineering and operations personnel to complete maintenance and capital projects
• Complete necessary programs and training, as indicated in the Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice Program
• Support the Mill’s goals for safety, environmental, and other areas of need
• Utilize predictive and preventive maintenance programs to identify and correct equipment issues
• Complete assigned work for daily, monthly, and annual outages
• Effectively complete assigned jobs for best result at the lowest cost
• Look for opportunities to solve issues, reduce costs, and improve performance
• Perform other responsibilities as needed

• At least 18 years of age.
• High School diploma or G.E.D.
• Work any assigned shift including weekends, holidays and overtime.
• At least two years of full‑time work in the last four years.
• Ability to read, write and speak in English.
• Satisfactory completion of background check and drug screen.
• Two‑year technical degree/certification in mechanical maintenance or a minimum of two years industrial maintenance experience or equivalent military experience.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to perform basic physical tasks (pushing, bending, twisting and repetitive motions).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Prefer candidates with pulp & paper industry experience.

• Ability to work well under pressure, within time constraints, multi‑task, and build relationships with internal and external customers.
• Excellent communication, analytical, organization, and computer skills.
• Capable of independently making sound decisions through creative problem solving, ambiguity, and change.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.
• Ability to read and understand technical correspondence, memos, instructions, and reports.
• Ability to apply skills to continuous process improvements while maintaining maximum levels of safety.

Selected candidates will complete a series of five written tests and a structured panel interview. The written tests include basic mechanical principles, arithmetic skills, 3‑D visualization, pattern recognition, and verbal ability. The interview reviews work history, achievements, knowledge and skill acquisition, interpersonal skills, task preferences, and physical demands experienced on previous jobs. Candidates will also complete hands‑on and written mechanical knowledge placement tests.

• Starting salary: $26.52 per hour.
• Paid vacation:
  One week per calendar year. Pro‑rata vacation during the initial year based on start date after a 60‑day probationary period.
• Paid holidays after the 60‑day evaluation probationary period.
• Within the first 45 days, employees (and dependents) are eligible to enroll in certain medical, dental, and vision coverages and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
• Automatic enrollment in the 401(k) plan, including pre‑tax and Roth contributions with employer matching.
• Disclaimer:
  The compensation and benefits stated are an estimate; the Company reserves the right to modify them at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories.