Co-Op Process Engineer a - Spring 2026

People • Customers • Trust

At Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), we think of ourselves as more than a box manufacturer. We are an ideas and solutions company. We seek to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds. It just happens to be that corrugated products are our area of expertise.

At PCA, you’ll find the best people in the industry operating in a “golden rule” culture. We actively promote mutually rewarding relationships with each other and our customers by advocating respect for every individual, ethical and fair practices, and the highest standards in what we say and do. PCA is proud to have a highly skilled and experienced team leading the way.

As one of the largest producers of containerboard and corrugated packaging products in the U.S., PCA offers customers broad expertise and economies of scale, while our multiple plant locations let us rapidly meet the local needs of our customers.

Co- Op Process Engineer – Total of 3 Positions Starting the Spring 2026 Semester

This position is for 3 rotating terms with the understanding that you sign up through the co-op program at your university.

As a co-op, you will be immersed in a high-energy, innovative culture – doing meaningful work, managing projects, and making decisions from the moment you walk into the Mill.  Your daily interactions with PCA personnel in Technical and Operations will sharpen your communication skills and strengthen your leadership qualities.

You will have a real impact on the overall process.  As you learn about the department’s process, you will use data collection, experimentation, and chemical analysis to troubleshoot and solve actual problems associated with your projects.  You will also realize the importance of coordination and teamwork between the departments.  In each department, you will take responsibilities to ensure the quality of the process, the efficiency of production and the reliability of the equipment.:

Responsibilities include:

Coordinate special testing of various samples throughout the papermaking process.

Work with Process Engineers as a resource for daily troubleshooting issues.  Second and Third Term students will be assigned to production areas to further their development.

Work on special project assignments to assist engineers, teach responsibility, and improve communication.

Extensively utilize computer software for data input and process information systems.

Special testing will include determining BTU values of various materials using a Bomb Calorimeter, Carl Fischer Titration, Mass Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography.

Basic Qualifications:

Must be currently enrolled at Mississippi State University, The University of Mississippi, Auburn University, University of Alabama, University of Maine, University of North Carolina State, Texas A&M University, University of Miami Ohio, Tennessee Technology University, or any University of TN and majoring in Bio-Systems Engineering or a related field and have completed the freshman year.  A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required and must be a permanent U.S. resident.