Machinist / Mechanical Journeyman

Sappi • Cloquet, MN

7d • $36 - $43 • Onsite

About The Position

The primary focus of this Machinist/Mechanical Journeyman position is as a manual Machinist, responsible for fabricating and repairing precision parts in the mill’s machine shop. The role will also support down‑day work and other mechanical maintenance activities as needed including ensuring the safe and efficient operation of production equipment through mechanical troubleshooting, repairs, and preventative maintenance. This role requires experience in heavy industrial environments and a solid foundation in mechanical systems.

Wages and Progression Opportunities

$36.03/hr or $38.57/hr based on experience

Progression opportunities up to $43.31/hr

Advancement to top pay possible in as little as 2 years based on performance and skill development
Stable employment - no cyclical or seasonal layoffs

Work Schedule for Newly Hired Mechanical Journeyman:
All newly hired Mechanical Journeymen are guaranteed to work a day shift, for their first full year of employment at Sappi. During this period, the available day‑shift schedules may include:

Monday–Friday, 8-hour days
Tuesday–Friday, 10-hour days
Monday–Thursday, 10-hour days

After completing one year of service, employees become eligible to work a 12‑hour rotating shift and may be assigned to this schedule if an opening occurs and no one more senior elects to take the opening.
The 12‑hour rotating shift consists of two 12‑hour days, two 12‑hour nights, followed by four days off. This schedule includes built‑in overtime, which generally results in a higher annual income. This is considered an earned opportunity as employees on rotating shifts work nights and weekends with fewer onsite resources and are required to operate more autonomously across multiple mill areas. This schedule also provides the broadest exposure to equipment and processes, allowing Mechanical Journeymen to gain the most knowledge and better prepare for progression to higher‑level, higher‑pay classifications.

Requirements

• 2+ years mechanical maintenance experience in an industrial or military environment (e.g., millwright, multi‑craft mechanic, or similar mechanical trade)
• Related 2‑year technical degree strongly preferred
• Candidates with a related technical degree and limited hands‑on experience may still be considered
• Candidates without a technical degree must have a minimum of 2+ years of relevant mechanical maintenance experience
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain industrial equipment
• Strong safety mindset and adherence to established procedures and standards
• Valid driver's license with demonstrated safe driving
• Ability to work in physically demanding conditions (climbing, lifting, standing, etc.)
• Willingness to work day shift (Monday–Friday) with future potential to transition to a rotating shift schedule, including nights and weekends
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Sappi does not provide visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Related 2‑year technical degree strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• The primary focus of this position is as a manual Machinist, responsible for fabricating and repairing precision parts in the mill’s machine shop. The role will also support down‑day work and other mechanical maintenance activities as needed.
• Troubleshoot and repair a wide range of mechanical equipment including pumps, conveyors, gearboxes, and motors
• Experience with power transmission systems such as belt drives, chain drives, gearboxes, and couplings
• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot piping systems
• Perform pipefitting, welding, and rigging tasks as needed
• Experience with hydraulics and pneumatic systems, including troubleshooting and repair
• Repair, install, and align centrifugal pumps, including shaft alignment and seal replacement
• Replace bearings, align shafts and couplings
• Read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics
• Work safely and collaboratively as part of a maintenance team

Benefits

• Medical and Dental Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with generous employer match
• 2 to 6 Weeks Paid Vacation (based on verified prior experience)
• 10 Paid Holidays + 2 Floating Holidays
• Tool Allowance
• Free Access to Online Learning across a wide range of professional, technical, and personal development topics

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree