Pulpmill Operator

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Pulp Mill Machine Operators (9432) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Pulp Mill Machine Operators (J142) 
• 2011 NOC: Pulp mill machine operators (9432) 
• 2016 NOC: Pulp mill machine operators (9432) 

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 process (CTMP) 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 1 of 4 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. Operators must wear safety boots, hard hats, ear plugs, safety glasses and other personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of injury. Overtime is sometimes needed.

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

Pulpmill operators need:

• manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude
• oral communication skills
• 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
• the ability to work as 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 work 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 without additional training, generally provided by the mill, further advancement opportunities are limited.

In Alberta, people employed as pulpmill machine operators work in the Manufacturing [pdf] industry.

The employment outlook [pdf] 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)
• 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 2nd, 3rd or 4th 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: albertaforestproducts.ca

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