Latest release
Unit Group

7312 Paper and Wood Processing Machine Operators

OSCA - Occupation Standard Classification for Australia
Reference period
2024, Version 1.0

7312 Paper and Wood Processing Machine Operators

Operate machinery to process pulp, cut and grade timber, and manufacture paper, pulp and wood products.

OSCA skill level

The occupations in this unit group have a skill level corresponding to the qualifications and experience below.

  • Skill Level 4: AQF Certificate II, AQF Certificate III, or at least one year of relevant experience
Occupation

731231 Paper and Pulp Production Operator

Operates machinery in a paper and pulp processing facility to process pulp and manufacture paper and pulp products, such as paper sheets, and paper or cardboard packaging.

Alternative title

  • Paper and Pulp Machine Operator

Skill level: 4

Main tasks

  • Operates and adjusts the settings of paper and pulp production machinery to ensure consistent output as per the specifications
  • Loads raw materials and chemicals into plant equipment to make and bleach pulp
  • Operates machinery such as blenders, agitators and driers to process, sample, wash and blend pulp
  • Transfers pulp to storage tanks and operates machinery to agitate pulp to maintain consistency
  • Loads pulp and additives such as dye into paper making equipment or machines, and operates machinery to make paper and pulp products
  • Monitors and controls the flow of materials throughout the pulp and paper making process
  • Operates drier and calendar rolls, and imparts gloss and coating mixtures to paper or paper products
Occupation

731232 Timber and Wood Production Operator

Operates timber and wood production machinery to perform tasks such as cutting logs to standard sizes, veneer production and gluing, and testing and grading timber planks, woodchips, wooden boards and other wood products.

Skill level: 4

Main tasks

  • Coordinates the loading and unloading of logs onto equipment and conveyors
  • Operates timber and wood processing machines or plant equipment to strip, debark and prepare logs for processing
  • Operates machines and equipment such as saws, planers and sanders to process and cut logs and timber into desired sizes and shapes
  • Operates machines such as lathes and slicing machines to produce veneers, and laminates veneers using glue
  • Inspects, measures and grades planks and wood products to ensure they meet quality standards
  • Monitors the wood drying process, which may involve the use of kilns, to ensure the wood reaches the specific moisture content
  • Keeps records of timber and wood products processed, equipment maintenance schedules, and any production issues encountered