Kraft Paper Maker

Kraft Paper Machine Operator — Savannah Pulp & Paper

Savannah, GA | March 2023 – Present

• Operated a high-speed Fourdrinier paper machine producing 450 tons of kraft paper daily, maintaining 98.7% output compliance against density and moisture specifications.
• Monitored chemical feed rates and pulp slurry consistency using a Honeywell Experion Distributed Control System (DCS), reducing fiber waste by 14% over a 12-month period.
• Led a 4-person shift crew through 18 scheduled felt and wire changes, reducing average machinery downtime from 4.2 hours to 3.1 hours (a 26% efficiency improvement).
• Troubleshot mechanical anomalies in the press and dryer sections, resolving 92% of web breaks within 15 minutes of occurrence to minimize production losses.

Assistant Paper Machine Operator — Pineland Packaging Corporation

Brunswick, GA | September 2020 – February 2023

• Monitored wet-end chemistry and drainage parameters on a multi-cylinder paper machine, increasing average tensile strength index of linerboard by 9%.
• Conducted hourly quality testing of paper samples (basis weight, moisture, caliper, Mullen burst strength), logging results in LIMS and correcting deviations to cut product reject rates by 18%.
• Assisted with 25+ grade changes on the paper machine, optimizing stock prep settings to shorten grade-to-grade transition times by 22%.
• Performed routine preventive maintenance and lubrication on 30+ dryer roll bearings, contributing to a record 340 consecutive days without an unscheduled mechanical shutdown.

Fourdrinier paper machines, DCS operation (Honeywell Experion, Valmet DNA), Wet-end chemistry, Pulp slurry preparation, Quality testing (Mullen burst, basis weight, caliper), Web break troubleshooting, Preventive maintenance, Grade transition optimization, OSHA safety standards, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), Mill team leadership

DCS Automation Upgrade

Role: Lead Machine Operator / Tester

Tools: Valmet DNA, Honeywell Experion, LIMS

Supported the integration of a new Valmet DCS on a 500-ton-per-day packaging paper machine, reducing grade transition times by 18% and stabilizing moisture consistency.

Wet-End Fiber Recovery Initiative

Role: Process Optimization Specialist

Tools: DCS, drainage rate monitors, consistency transmitters

Redesigned whitewater recycling loops and adjusted chemical defoamer ratios, leading to a 14% reduction in chemical consumption and recovering 8 tons of fiber monthly.

• Pulp & Paper Technology Certificate (TAPPI) (2021)
• OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Certification (2020)

• Languages: English (Native)
• Technical Competencies: Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) certified, rigging, overhead crane operation
• Availability: 2 weeks notice