Pulpmill Operator

Pulpmills use different processes to extract cellulose fibres from wood chips, sawmill residues and other raw materials. In kraft mills, huge pressure cookers called digesters mix wood chips with soda-based chemicals to break the fibres down into pulp. In CTMP mills, a chemithermomechanical (CTMP) process is used to separate wood fibres with steam and chemicals. The complexity of these operations varies from one situation to another.

Pulpmill operators' duties and responsibilities vary depending on the type of equipment but, in general, they:

• operate and monitor screening equipment, mixing tanks, washers, hoisting equipment, forming, cutting and packaging equipment or other machines used in cellulose processing
• operate mobile equipment to move finished product into storage or load it for shipping to customers
• monitor equipment and machinery panel indicators, gauges, level indicators and other equipment instruments to detect malfunctions and ensure processing steps are carried out according to specifications
• initiate changes or communicate with the control room operator to make process adjustments and start up or shut down machinery and equipment as required
• collect processing samples and conduct titration tests, pH readings and other routine tests on pulp and solutions
• maintain and complete production reports.

Pulpmill operators may work in one of four different areas: pulping, refining, steam and recovery, or pulp finishing. Each area is unique and requires different on-the-job training based upon equipment use.

Pulpmill operators usually work 12 hour rotating shifts. They work in an environment that is often hot, humid and noisy. Kraft mills, due to the process involved, can emit an unpleasant odour. Safety boots, hard hats, ear plugs, safety glasses and other personal protective equipment are required to reduce the risk of injury. Overtime is sometimes required.

The work involves considerable walking, standing and climbing ladders or stairs. Lifting up to 20 kilograms may be required.

Pulpmill operators need the following characteristics:

• manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude
• the ability to work in a potentially hot, damp or dusty environment
• the ability to wait for breaks until operational demands permit time
• the ability to perform repetitious tasks and remain alert
• good oral communication skills and the ability to work well as part of a team.

In pulp mills operating on a self-directed work team structure, operators also need the supervisory skills required for activities such as planning and scheduling, budgeting, training and coaching other workers.

All pulpmill operators should enjoy operating and monitoring equipment, having clear parameters and organized methods for their work, and working with others to solve problems.

Pulpmill operators are employed in pulp mills that are usually located near forested areas. Union membership may be a condition of employment.

Experienced pulpmill operators may advance to pulping control room operator or supervisory positions but further advancement opportunities are limited without additional training, generally provided by the mill.

In Alberta, people employed as pulp mill machine operators work in the Manufacturing industry.

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the Manufacturing industry)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years creating opportunities in areas where second, third or fourth class power engineering tickets are required. However, the continuing computerization of pulpmill operations may have a negative impact on employment demand for pulpmill operators.

Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) website: www.albertaforestproducts.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.