Paper technologists work in a paper mill, designing and trialling equipment and processes used in the manufacturing cycle of paper, tissue and corrugated board. Raw materials such as waste paper, wood pulp and, less commonly, plant-based fibres are turned into paper and board, and used to make anything from high-quality art paper to cartons and newspapers.

Technologists monitor and evaluate quality control results on materials to make sure they meet client specifications, for instance correct colour and finish. They also monitor and adjust chemicals, additives and other factors which affect the process, such as liquid temperatures and pressures.

Technologists check finished products to make sure they comply with industry regulations and customer requirements.

Other tasks include:

• coordinating trials of new products
• resolving customers’ technical problems
• interpreting laboratory results
• writing technical reports.

Some technologists are responsible for production management.

Hours and Environment

Most paper technologists work shifts covering 40 hours a week. This often includes nights and weekends. Senior technologists may work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although they are often required to be on-call to attend the mill in case of problems.

Paper technologists usually divide their time between the office and production areas of the mill. Conditions in some parts of the mill may be hot, humid and noisy. Protective clothing is required for laboratory and factory-floor work.

Skills and Interests

To be a paper technologist you should:

• have an aptitude for science and technology
• be able to work with staff at all levels
• have good communication and presentation skills
• have good IT skills
• be able to analyse and interpret test results
• have good problem solving skills
• be able to work as part of a team
• be willing to keep up to date with new developments.

Entry

Entry to this role is normally with a BTEC HNC/HND in Applied Science (Chemistry) or degree in related subjects such as chemistry, science or engineering.

The minimum entry requirement for a degree is five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent with two A level/two H grades or equivalent including at least one science subject. The usual entry requirements for a HNC/HND are four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent with one A level/two H grades or equivalent, usually in a science-based subject.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

If you are already working within paper manufacturing and hold relevant vocational qualifications at level three, it may be possible to combine work-based training with part-time study towards a higher qualification.

Previous experience of manufacturing or laboratory work may be acceptable.

For information about careers in the paper industry see the website for the Confederation of Paper Industries in Further Information.

Training

Graduates and HNC/HND entrants to the industry often undertake in-house training, which includes work experience in the different departments of a mill.

With experience and the right qualifications, it is possible to study to postgraduate level for courses such as paper science or packaging technology.

Opportunities

Paper technologists are employed by paper mills and by firms which supply chemicals and machinery to the mills. There are also some research posts in academic institutions, and with companies overseas.

Promotion prospects in the paper industry are limited, because there are relatively few technologists. Career advancement may mean moving to another firm and taking on responsibility for project management or specialist research. Some technologists move from the mills to suppliers and vice versa.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

New entrants can expect between £16,000 and £19,000.
With experience, a paper technologist can earn from £22,000 a year.

Further information

1 Rivenhall Road
Swindon
Wiltshire
SN5 7BD