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. We are engineering, we are creative design, we are environment, and we are recycling! 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 66% of the paper we use in the UK and there has been a 78% reduction between 1990 and 2024 of Papermaking Fossil Fuel CO2 Emissions.

• 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. We are widespread across the UK, with a range of SMEs and multi-national companies.

• 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.

Did you know 

• Much of the raw material for paper is recycled fibre. When industry does use new (virgin) fibre, it comes from well managed forests using sustainable harvesting and with respect for wildlife and local communities.
• The paper industry has achieved a 73% reduction in carbon emissions since 1990
• Corrugated Board was first introduced in the 19th century as a sweat band for men’s top hats. It rapidly developed to become the world’s favourite packaging material.

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.
• Marketing & Sales Professionals – Build strong customer relationships, promote innovative products, and drive business growth through strategic marketing and sales initiatives.
• Health & Safety Specialists – Champion a culture of safety by ensuring compliance, implementing best practices, and safeguarding the wellbeing of every team member.

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?

The paper industry is where creativity, technology, and sustainability all come together to make a real impact on the world.

• • It’s green (for real): Paper is one of the most renewable, recyclable materials on the planet. The industry is constantly finding new ways to cut waste, use less energy, and protect forests.

  • It’s creative: From smart packaging that replaces plastic to beautiful design-led products, paper is at the heart of innovation.

  • It’s high-tech: Modern paper mills use automation, robotics, and data analytics — it’s not old-fashioned or low-tech.

  • It’s global and diverse: Paper touches every industry — from fashion and food to healthcare and tech — and offers career paths for every skill set.

  • It makes a difference: Working in paper means helping to shape a more sustainable future, one innovation at a time.