Intern​/Co-Op Environmental

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.

The primary function of the co-op student will be to assist the environmental department in the completion of tasks that contribute to the efficient and cost-effective operation of the paper mill that maintains compliance with state and federal environmental regulations.

• Review daily emissions monitoring with Environmental Manager.
• Monthly collection and shipment of samples throughout the mill for chemical analysis.
• Sample collection and analysis of mill sewer point discharges.
• Maintenance and upkeep of mill spill prevention and control supplies.
• Assistance with treatment plant lab upkeep and standard operating and troubleshooting procedures review.
• Assistance with reviewing environmental plans and editing when appropriate.
• Assistance with records retention.

Must be currently enrolled student majoring in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Sciences (e.g., Chemistry, Biology) at Michigan State University, Western Michigan University, or Michigan Tech University and have completed the freshman year but not surpassed senior status. A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required and you must be eligible to work in the US on a full‑time basis.

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

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

A housing stipend may be offered up to $1,000 grossed‑up per month if necessary.

PCA will reimburse the student for the move to their new housing upon starting the co‑op position and return to school.

• 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.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified Applicants must apply at  to be considered.