As a Paper Machine Operator with the Department of National Defence, you will operate and monitor complex machinery used in the production of paper and pulp products. You'll be responsible for controlling machine settings, monitoring production output, and ensuring product quality meets established standards. This role is essential to maintaining efficient operations within DND's printing and materials production facilities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include starting up and shutting down machinery, adjusting machine parameters based on production requirements, monitoring gauges and instruments, and identifying mechanical issues before they affect output. You'll work with supervisors and maintenance technicians to troubleshoot problems and implement solutions. Safety is a top priority—you'll follow established protocols, perform regular equipment checks, and maintain a clean and organized work area.
You'll work in a manufacturing or production environment, which may include shift work, including evenings, nights, and weekends. The role requires you to be physically active, comfortable working with machinery, and able to concentrate on detailed monitoring tasks for extended periods. You'll be part of a production team and contribute directly to supporting DND's operational capacity.
Key Responsibilities
Perform machining and shaping tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most Paper Machine Operator positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful candidates have completed a trade apprenticeship or vocational training in machinery operation, maintenance, or a related field. On-the-job training is typically provided to help you become familiar with DND-specific equipment and processes.
To excel in this role, you should develop skills in mechanical troubleshooting, quality control, and equipment maintenance. Professional development opportunities within DND may include formal training on new equipment, certifications in safety protocols, and advancement toward supervisory or specialized technical roles. We encourage you to pursue continuous learning through industry certifications related to pulp and paper production.
Entry Plans
To become a Paper Machine Operator with DND, you'll typically apply through advertised Government of Canada competitions posted on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website at jobs.gc.ca. These competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
Entry methods include: open competitions where you submit an application and may participate in a selection process (written tests, practical assessments, or interviews); staffing pools, where qualified candidates are assessed and placed on a roster for future hiring; and lateral moves, if you're already a federal Public Service employee looking to transfer into this role. DND occasionally recruits through student programs or apprenticeship initiatives, which can provide a pathway to permanent employment. We recommend checking jobs.gc.ca regularly and following DND's civilian careers page for new opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Paper Machine Operator positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the nature of production operations and the need for continuous monitoring of machinery. However, part-time or casual arrangements may be available during periods of high production demand or seasonal fluctuations.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as your presence at the machinery and production facility is essential. Flexible scheduling within the constraints of shift work may be negotiated with your manager, depending on operational requirements. If you have specific needs regarding work arrangements, discuss them during the hiring process or with your manager once hired, as DND is committed to supporting work-life balance within operational limits.
