Production Team Member

at Smurfit Westrock in New Lenox, Illinois, United States

Job Description

General Help – 2nd or 3rd shift

Smurfit Westrock is the largest paper and packaging company in the world. With over 100,000 employees, a presence in 40 countries and over 500 operating locations, there are countless career paths and opportunities for individuals seeking to join our organization!

Shift Details: This facility works 8-hour shifts. Must be able to work any shift, as well as daily or weekend overtime as required.

• 3rd shift: 11PM – 7AM

• 2nd shift: 3PM – 11PM

Starting Wage Range: $22.10/hr with potential for increases after probationary period is completed

• First 3 weeks will be on 1st shift (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM) for orientation, safety, quality, and OJT (On-the-Job Training). New hires will have direct access to leadership for questions and support.

• After 3 weeks, employees will transition to their designated shift (2nd or 3rd). While technical trainers are available, most training will be provided by experienced crew members. Candidates should be open to coaching and feedback.

• Eight weekly evaluations will be conducted by the Production Supervisor and Technical Trainer to review progress, answer questions, and address concerns.

• Advancement opportunities are available for employees who demonstrate strong performance and engagement after successfully completing their 60-day probationary period.

• Upon successful completion of the 60-day probationary period, employees will be eligible to bid on higher-paying positions. Examples include Assistant Machine Operator ($25.52), Assistant Corrugator Operator ($26.11), Machine Operator ($28.09), and Corrugator Operator ($29.41). These are just a few of the advancement opportunities available within the plant.

• Employees are also eligible for a retention/stay bonus, which is paid out over the first six months of employment.

Additional Incentives:

• Shift Differential: $0.63/hr for 2nd shift $.57/hr for 3rd

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision) available after 60 days of employment

• Company Paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance

• Paid Lunches and Breaks

• 401(k) with Company Contributions (up to 4%)

• 11 Paid Holidays after completion of 60 days of employment

• 1 week Vacation Pay after completion of first 6 months

• Reimbursements for Boots & RX Safety Glasses

• Employee Referral Program: $1,250 per hourly employee

• Tuition Reimbursement after 6 months of employment

Primary Job Duties:

In this role, you will play an integral part in the production process, ensuring that our machinery operates efficiently and produces high-quality products. You will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various packaging machines while adhering to stringent safety and quality standards. As a Machine Operator Assistant, you will also monitor production output and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the manufacturing process. Your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions will contribute to the timely delivery of our products to customers. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of safety practices and machine operation, along with the ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment. As a key player in our operations, you will be instrumental in driving productivity and helping us meet our clients\u2019 needs. If you are passionate about manufacturing and have a technical background, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to further your career in the paper and packaging industry.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Set-up, calibration and operation of manufacturing equipment / powered equipment.

• Monitoring machine operations and production quality to ensure compliance with standards.

• Performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting on machinery as needed.

• Documenting production data and maintenance activities accurately.

• Following safety protocols to promote a safe working environment for all employees.

• Collaborating with team members and supervisors to meet production targets and deadlines.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.

• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team setting

• Ability to work safely and comply with all safety regulations.

• Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math used in the manufacturing process.

• Ability to lift, push or pull up to 50 lbs., navigate stairs, stand, walk, and bend throughout the entire shift with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled environment that is hot and humid in the Summer/Fall.

• Ability to work daily overtime, weekend work and various shifts depending on workload.

• Successful completion of a criminal background check and pre-employment physical and drug screen.

Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.

The starting rate is $22.10 per hour, depending on your role, level, and location. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 10 days of paid vacation, and 11 days of paid holidays, subject to annual change. Your actual pay will be based on your work location and other factors, such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about the specific salary range for your preferred location, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process.

You may apply online at ¹ www.westrock.com/company/careers and the application window is expected to close by 12/1/26

References

Visible links

1. http://www.westrock.com/company/careers

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity, and respect, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.