Operator Apprentice I (Manufacturing)

Location: DeRidder, Louisiana, United States; onsite at a paper mill. Requires 12-hour rotating day/night shifts, overtime, outdoor work in all elements, work at heights, and confined-space work.

Salary: $26.02 per hour starting pay, with wage increases every six months during the two-year apprenticeship after the probationary period.

Company

hirify.global is a Fortune 500 manufacturing company producing corrugated packaging and white paper through operations across the United States.

What you will do

• Rotate through paper machine, shipping, old corrugated cardboard, woodyard, pulp mill, and powerhouse operations.
• Operate and monitor production equipment, cranes, hoists, clamp trucks, bale trucks, lift trucks, and heavy equipment.
• Process finished paper, load and unload materials, operate conveyors, and check paper rolls for defects.
• Monitor equipment, make adjustments, and relay operational information to senior operators.
• Join the Emergency Response Team and participate in fire, confined-space, HazMat, SCBA, and quarterly safety training.

Requirements

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• At least 18 years old and able to provide a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• At least 24 months of full-time work experience, including 12 months of industrial experience within the last 36 months.
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating day/night shifts and overtime.
• Valid unrestricted driver's license, good communication skills, and a strong safety, attendance, and teamwork record.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, work at heights and in confined spaces, and operate in a fast-paced environment.

Nice to have

• Five or more years of industrial or manufacturing experience, or equivalent military experience.
• Strong computer skills and the ability to solve operational problems collaboratively.

Culture & Benefits

• Safety-focused production environment with comprehensive benefits.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability coverage available during the first 30 days of employment.
• Paid vacation and holidays after completing the 60-work-day probationary period.
• 401(k) plan with pre-tax and Roth contribution options and employer matching contributions.

Hiring process

• Complete five timed written tests covering mechanical principles, arithmetic, spatial visualization, pattern comparison, and verbal ability.
• Participate in a structured four-person board interview covering work history, achievements, skills, interpersonal abilities, and physical work experience.