Digester Operator (Pulp Manufacturing)
じょうしゃこう（パルプせいぞう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized professional who operates and monitors equipment that treats wood chips with alkaline solution at high temperature and high pressure to extract pulp.
Description
The Digester Operator (Pulp Manufacturing) handles the process of cooking wood chips with alkaline solution using a digester (cooking kettle) to separate cellulose and generate pulp. They operate the equipment while managing temperature, pressure, and chemical concentration, and perform quality tests and component analyses. In the event of abnormalities, they implement emergency stops and troubleshooting, and important duties include safety management as well as equipment inspection and maintenance. This also includes line operations under a shift system and the preparation of production records.
Future Outlook
While the paper and pulp industry is experiencing a decline in some demand due to digitalization, demand for paper in packaging materials and hygiene products remains stable. With progress in environmental response technologies, there is a need to establish efficient manufacturing processes, so demand for skilled operators is expected to be maintained in the medium to long term.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Excellent observation skills / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Operator (Apprentice) → Cooking Operator → Shift Leader → Manufacturing Section Manager → Factory Supervisor
Required Skills
Chemical Concentration Management / Digester Operation / Emergency Shutdown Procedures / Equipment Inspection and Maintenance / Quality Inspection / Temperature and Pressure Control
Recommended Skills
Basic Chemical Engineering Knowledge / Equipment Diagnosis / PLC Control Knowledge / Quality Control Techniques (QC)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to even minute differences is necessary to ensure process safety and quality maintenance. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical endurance is needed for long hours of standing work, equipment inspections, etc. |
| Stress Tolerance | Stress tolerance is required for work under high temperature and high pressure as well as emergency responses. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because work procedures are routine, and creative thinking is rarely required. |
Related Qualifications
- Boiler Engineer
- Hazardous Materials Handler (Category B, Type 4)
- Slinging Skills Training
Aliases
- Digester Operator
Related Jobs
- Bleaching Operator
- Paper Machine Operator
- Paper Processing Worker