Senior R&D Technologist - Military Veterans

Description & Requirements

WestRock (NYSE :WRK) 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 integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to more fiber-based packaging forward.

The opportunity:

The R&D Machine Operator is a specialist position that reports to the R&D Manager for the Pilot Plant and performs a variety of operational and maintenance tasks with trial work in support of innovation projects. In this role, you will interact with corporate professionals to develop a variety of processes used to produce paperboard-based substrates that are used in packaging applications by WestRock's customers. The work is innovation-intense and requires a high level of creativity, flexibility, and professionalism. To be successful in this role, you will be expected to tackle a variety of challenging tasks and opportunities with a positive attitude communicating with a variety of business professionals from scientists to engineers.

How you will impact WestRock:

• Safely operate a variety of equipment including mechanical and chemical processes


• Participate in rapid prototyping for packaging formats


• Actively participate in planning and executing pilot trials in the Pilot Plant and potentially other manufacturing locations including representing WRK at customer sites


• Work with R&D scientists and other cross-functional teams on strategic projects for product development


• Focus on safe work practices which is paramount to WestRock


• Operate test equipment and perform laboratory experiments


• Design and produce custom parts and prototypes


• Operate a forklift as needed; forklift training will be provided

What you need to succeed:

• High School Degree required; Associates Degree and/or training in maintenance or mechanical/electrical fields preferred


• 0-2+ years' experience


• Manufacturing experience preferred


• Paper and packaging industry experience is preferred


• Knowledge of papermaking and paperboard products preferred


• Ability to function independently with minimal oversight, high degree of initiative


• Strong teamwork skills, including ability to contribute to cross functional teams


• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written to interact with corporate professionals


• High degree of mechanical aptitude and technical curiosity


• Ability to contribute in a lab, pilot plant and production environment


• Basic computer skills to include proficiency with spreadsheet


• Ability to lift and carry samples routinely weighing 50 pounds


• Ability to travel up to 15%


• Must be able to work from 7 - 4 PM M-F


• Must have demonstrated examples of how you have offered solutions to problems in previous work environments.


• Willing to learn multiple machines.

What we offer:

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence


• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities


• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential


• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

WestRock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. 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.