Paper Lab Technician

Central is an industry leader in performance-driven marketing-at-retail solutions; specializing in both packaging and point-of-purchase (POP) display with clients across North America. Our dynamic company offers employees a collaborative, client-focused and business casual workplace with excellent benefits, and a unique supportive family culture.

As an industry-leading corrugated product manufacturer with over 40 years of operational excellence, Independent Corrugator Inc. (ICI) is committed to supplying structurally and aesthetically appealing corrugated materials within a quick time frame. Through our testing division, NATS (North American Testing Services), we also provide rigorous material testing services to both internal operations and external customers. As an ever-growing and evolving company dedicated to quality in every product we produce, we are currently seeking a highly motivated Production  Paper Technician to join our team.

JOB SUMMARY

The Paper Technician is based out of the NATS laboratory and is responsible for the preparation, collection, and testing of corrugated and paper-based samples in accordance with applicable industry standards. Testing scope includes samples from ICI production, The Central Group, and external customers, as well as participation in trials when required.

This role operates within a structured laboratory environment and requires adherence to ISTA, ASTM, and TAPPI standards and protocols. The Paper Technician is expected to cross-train across all areas of the lab, maintain current knowledge of evolving industry standards, and update procedures accordingly. The role demands accuracy, independence, and a methodical approach to daily work.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare, collect, and test paper and board samples including liners, medium, coated liners, and combined board, in accordance with established procedures and industry standards.
• Conduct routine and non-routine testing; analyze results and produce clear, accurate written reports.
• Receive incoming samples and pallets and perform pre-inspection checks upon arrival.
• Conduct random quality checks on incoming and in-process materials.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, perform in-house calibrations, and keep workspaces organized and clean.
• Stay current with ISTA, ASTM, and TAPPI standards; update internal procedures as standards evolve.
• Obtain and maintain ISTA certification; support the lab's ongoing ISTA certification status.
• Communicate professionally with customers, plant personnel, and management as required.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS:

• College diploma or bachelor's degree in a laboratory science, packaging, or related program is preferred.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 1 to 2 years of laboratory experience. Experience in the pulp and paper or corrugated industry is considered a strong asset.
• Certified forklift operator, or ability to obtain certification upon hire.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Ability to read, interpret, and execute testing procedures; working knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, and TAPPI protocols is preferred.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically Excel and Word; ability to produce technical reports.
• Competency in mathematical calculations across multiple units of measurement.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve independently and make sound, timely decisions.
• Capable of working effectively both independently and as part of a team.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Combined office and laboratory environment.
• Physically demanding at times; requires the ability to lift and move samples and equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Moderate noise levels present during testing operations.
• Occasional work outside of standard hours may be required, though this is uncommon

NATS (North American Testing Services) a division of Independent Corrugated Inc. (ICI)is committed to equal opportunity employment. This position is for a current vacancy, and accommodations are available upon request from people with disabilities during the recruitment and selection process. We also use AI-assisted tools provided through our recruitment platforms to support the review and ranking of applications. These tools support, but do not replace, human decision-making, and final hiring decisions are made by our team.

We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Salary: $50,00-$52,000

About The Central Group of Companies

The Central Group of Companies is a Platinum Best-Managed Company, and an industry leader in Performance at Retail . For 40+ years, Central has provided its impressive client base with retail packaging, displays, and fixtures that deliver measurable results. We combine proprietary shopper marketing techniques with award-winning design, excellence in operations and retail installation, to bring innovative and value-engineered solutions to our clients.