R&D Specialist

Stora Enso; Oulu; Hybrid; EUR 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Stora Enso seeks an experienced R&D Specialist to lead and execute projects in the development of mechanical and semi-chemical pulps, applying findings to traditional and novel end-applications. The role sits within the Wood and Pulp Technology team of Group Innovation and R&D.

You will plan and drive R&D initiatives, collaborate with mills, universities and suppliers, and contribute to customer-driven innovation with a strong emphasis on packaging applications.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in pulp and/or chemical engineering.
• Deep understanding of semi-chemical and mechanical pulps and their fiber properties.
• 5+ years of relevant R&D experience, preferably with industry exposure.
• Strong project management skills and ability to drive improvements and new products.
• Experience with packaging products is a plus.
• Fluent in English; ability to collaborate internationally.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and execute R&D projects in semi-chemical/mechanical pulps.
• Develop ideas and methods from lab to mill scale.
• Collaborate with mills, suppliers, universities, and research institutes.
• Work in a hybrid model based in Finland and travel as needed.

Skills

Scientific background

Technical background

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Independent worker

Education

Master's in pulp & paper tech

Chemical engineering

Job description

We are now looking for an experienced R&D Specialist to lead and execute R&D projects in the field of innovation and development of mechanical and semi-chemical pulps and their optimal usage in traditional and novel end-applications.

Stora Enso is a global leader in renewable materials with a strong focus on packaging. Our purpose is to replace non-renewable materials with renewable solutions. Together with our customers, we design and deliver competitive, high-quality packaging materials and solutions, made from fresh and recycled fibers, accelerating the transition to a circular bioeconomy.

As R&D Specialist you will be part of the Wood and Pulp technology team at Group Innovation and R&D organization. The Wood and Pulping Technology team consist of experts within the area and is working towards customer driven innovation and product development targeting efficient usage of the fibre raw material.

The tasks

Your main task will be to plan, lead, execute and support R&D projects together with your colleagues and relevant stakeholders within the field of semi-chemical pulps or mechanical pulps. Development of new ideas, methods, and products from laboratory to mill scale are included in the tasks.

You will participate in collaborations with mills, suppliers, universities and research institutes.

Your location will be in Finland at any Stora Enso location. We apply hybrid way of working. The job requires some traveling on need basis.

What We Offer

With our values, "Lead and Do what's right", we endeavour to set an example in all aspects of our business as well as sustainability. We dare to take the initiative and constantly ask ourselves what more can we do, what can we do better. This is an excellent opportunity for a curious R&D professional to join a world-class international innovation and R&D team and work with diverse projects utilizing customer input in development work.

Qualifications

To succeed in this role you have a strong scientific and technical background combined with structured analytical thinking; hands‑on can‑do attitude, problem solving ability, and results‑driven approach. You have ability to transform challenges into new opportunities and to work independently as well as in an international and interdisciplinary team. You have an innovative and open mindset with good team‑working skills.

We expect you to have at least a master’s degree in pulp and paper technology or chemical engineering. Deep understanding of semi‑chemical processes and mechanical processes and the impact on fiber properties are needed.

For Specialist position you should have a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience. We are looking for candidates with strong background with R&D preferably combined with Industry experience to be able to drive improvements and new products into our operations. Good project management skills are also needed. Expertise in packaging products are beneficial in this position.

You are fluent in English.

Our recruitment process can include pre‑employment actions such as background, reference and health checks as well as a drug test.

We believe diversity strengthens our competitiveness and contributes to better decision‑making. Diverse working teams help us to explore different perspectives and challenge our way of thinking. We work actively to increase diversity in the workplace and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. Stora Enso is an equal opportunity employer and follows non‑discriminatory practices.