Discover A Career in The

Paper 

Sector

The paper sector is essential in everyday life, providing packaging, printing, hygiene products, and sustainable solutions. It supports industries, commerce, and communication, while also focusing on eco-friendly alternatives and recycling for a more sustainable future.

70% of the fibres used to make paper in the UK come from paper collected for recycling.

Get ready to work at the forefront

... of scientific discovery!

Did you know that the UK’s Paper-based Industries play a critical role in keeping society moving? From packaging our food and e-commerce deliveries to producing essential items like toilet tissue and graphic papers, the paper sector is vital to our daily lives. But what’s even more exciting is the incredible career opportunities this dynamic and innovative industry has to offer.

Why Choose a Career in the Paper Industry?

Working in the paper industry is about more than just paper—it’s about innovation, sustainability, and making an impact on the world. Here's what you can expect when you join the sector:

  • Cutting-Edge Innovation

Harness advanced technology to create smarter, more efficient, and eco-friendly processes. From advanced recycling techniques to sustainable packaging design, the paper industry leads in creative problem-solving.

  • Sustainability at Its Core

Be part of one of the UK’s most environmentally conscious industries. We recycle over 70% of the UK’s consumed paper and have already reduced carbon emissions by 73% since 1990.

  • Career Diversity

Explore roles ranging from engineering, manufacturing, and data analysis to marketing and supply chain management. Whether you’re technical, creative, or business-minded, there’s a place for you here.

  • Economic Growth & Community Impact

Contribute to a vital part of the UK economy. Our industry is a lifeline for communities across the country, creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and driving innovation.

Explore Diverse Job Roles

The paper sector is thriving, offering exciting opportunities across a variety of roles and pathways. Whether you’re passionate about science, technology, sustainability, or creativity, our industry is the perfect platform to develop your skills and make a real difference.

Some of the roles you can explore:

  • Engineers – Work with cutting-edge machinery to innovate and optimise manufacturing processes.
  • Sustainability Specialists – Drive resource efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
  • Designers – Develop creative paper-based packaging solutions for a range of industries.
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Experts – Strategise and manage efficient product delivery.
  • Data Analysts – Unlock insights from data to enhance operations and decision-making.
  • Machine Operators & Technicians – Tackle hands-on roles that keep production running smoothly.

Join the Force Behind Essential Products

The UK’s Paper-based Industries produce products vital to our everyday lives and beyond. Without these products, society as we know it would simply not function. By joining this sector, you’ll contribute to the production of items like:

  • Food and e-commerce packaging
  • Toilet tissue and hygiene products
  • High-quality graphic papers

And that’s just the beginning.

What Makes the Paper Industry Unique?

At CPI, we work on behalf of the UK’s Paper-based Industries to promote their value, enhance competitiveness, and ensure sustainable growth. Our mission includes:

  • Promoting a positive image for paper as a renewable and recyclable material.
  • Securing competitive energy supplies for a thriving industry.
Read More

careers in paper 

The paper sector offers diverse opportunities with leading employers.
Confederation of Paper Industries

At The Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI), represent an industry with a £13 billion annual turnover and a workforce of over 115,000 skilled professionals (both direct and indirect).

 

Visit website

My Career insight

James Fox
Data Scientist
Every day brings new problems to solve and exciting science to learn. I feel my work is helping progress the boundaries of scientific knowledge and ultimately positively impacting the lives of patients."
Read their story

Latest vacancies in the Life Science sector

Ready to dive into the awe-inspiring realm of science? Explore all the current roles awaiting your discovery!
View all vacancies

Where to start

It can be a bit overwhelming to think about your career path. The choices seem endless. Use the links below to help whittle down your options.

The CareerS Quiz

Finding your ultimate career is just a few answers and clicks away.
Get started

Search job vacancies

Our roundup of all the latest live job vacancies that could kick-start your career.
Search listings

Advice & Guidance

From CVs to interview questions - all you need to know about getting that dream job.
Take me there
chevron-downchevron-rightarrow-leftarrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram