Process Control Apprentice

ND Paper • Rumford, ME

6h • $75,000 - $100,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Process Control Apprentice is an entry-level technical position designed to develop knowledge and hands-on experience in industrial process control systems, instrumentation, automation, and troubleshooting within a manufacturing environment. The apprentice will work under the guidance of experienced Process Control, Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I), and Operations personnel to support safe, reliable, and efficient mill operations.

This role provides structured training and development intended to prepare the employee for progression into a Process Control Technician or Process Control Engineer role.

Requirements

• Associate degree or technical certification in Instrumentation, Electrical Technology, Automation, Process Control, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent industrial, military, or technical training may be considered.
• Basic understanding of electrical systems, instrumentation, PLCs, automation, or industrial controls preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to learn industrial processes and control systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial environment including climbing, lifting, and working in varying conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Prior industrial maintenance or manufacturing experience.
• Exposure to DCS, PLC, or SCADA systems.
• Experience with SAP.
• Internship or co-op experience in industrial automation or controls.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate safety as a core value and comply with all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in troubleshooting and maintaining process control systems, instrumentation, analyzers, PLCs, DCS systems, drives, and related automation equipment.
• Support Process Control and E&I personnel during maintenance, calibration, installation, and repair activities.
• Learn and apply basic process control principles, instrumentation standards, and electrical troubleshooting techniques.
• Assist with process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives to improve operational reliability, efficiency, and product quality.
• Participate in preventive and predictive maintenance activities for instrumentation and control systems.
• Support documentation updates including loop sheets, control narratives, drawings, and equipment history.
• Develop understanding of mill processes, production systems, and equipment operations.
• Utilize SAP or other maintenance management systems to review work orders, equipment history, and maintenance documentation.
• Participate in outage and shutdown activities as assigned.
• Support troubleshooting efforts during machine breakdowns
• Supporting weekend coverage on rotating schedule
• Maintain good housekeeping and organization within work areas.
• Attend required technical, safety, and apprenticeship-related training programs.
• Work collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and Reliability teams.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as voluntary benefits such as accident insurance, hospital indemnity, and critical illness for you and your family.
• Financial protection benefits, including life insurance, disability insurance, and business travel accident insurance.
• Tax advantaged accounts such as Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Paid holidays, personal days, and vacation days to support work-life balance.
• A 401K retirement plan with a company match and annual fixed contribution.
• Wellness programs with incentives and an on-site clinic available at our Rumford and Biron location.

What This Job Offers

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