Paper & Pulp SME

Absolute Applications; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing consulting firm is seeking a Paper & Pulp Subject Matter Expert (SME) with a strong background in technology engineering and operations. This remote role requires over 15 years of experience in pulp and paper manufacturing, focusing on process optimization and energy efficiency. Responsibilities include providing technical leadership for paper manufacturing, training engineers, and collaborating with R&D for new product development. Candidates should possess strong analytical and leadership skills as well as knowledge of automation systems.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in pulp & paper manufacturing, preferably at integrated mills.
• Proven success in process troubleshooting, optimization, and cost reduction.
• Strong understanding of fiber line and paper machine operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and expertise for paper and pulp processes.
• Analyse data to identify bottlenecks and quality issues; implement corrective actions.
• Lead process optimization and energy efficiency programs.

Skills

Process troubleshooting

Optimization

Cost reduction

Strong analytical skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Education

B.E. / B.Tech. / M.Tech. in Paper Technology, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical / Process Engineering

Tools

Automation systems (DCS, QCS)

Process monitoring tools

Job description

Paper & Pulp SME (Ideally Technology Engineering background / Operations)

Remote Work from the UK with availability to travel as per client request

Rate negotiable

Initial 4 Month Contract

Role Overview :

The Paper Domain SME will serve as the technical authority for all paper manufacturing, pulp processing, and mill optimization activities. The role demands deep industry knowledge, process expertise, and a strong ability to guide cross-functional teams in achieving excellence in quality, productivity, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

You will act as the bridge between operations, process engineering, digital transformation, and R&D, helping to improve mill performance, reduce costs, and drive continuous improvement across all production units.

Key Responsibilities :

Provide technical leadership and domain expertise for paper and pulp processes — from pulping, bleaching, and refining to papermaking, coating, and finishing.

Analyse mill data to identify bottlenecks, quality issues, and process deviations; implement corrective and preventive actions.

Lead process optimization and energy efficiency programs, focusing on reducing raw material waste, steam / electricity consumption, and downtime.

Standardize operating parameters, best practices, and KPIs across mills for consistent product quality and yield.

Collaborate with R&D and product teams for new grade development (e.g., kraft paper, duplex board, fluting, testliner, specialty papers).

Support capital projects — including feasibility studies, machine upgrades, and process redesigns.

Train, mentor, and develop the technical capability of engineers and operators in paper mill operations.

Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety standards.

Work closely with digital transformation teams to implement data-driven decision systems and predictive maintenance solutions.

Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) for chronic production and quality issues.

Benchmark mill performance against industry standards and recommend continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications & Skills :

B.E. / B.Tech. / M.Tech. in Paper Technology, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical / Process Engineering.

15+ years of experience in pulp & paper manufacturing (preferably integrated mills).

Strong understanding of :

• Fiber line operations (pulping, bleaching, washing)
• Paper machine operations (forming, pressing, drying, coating)
• Quality parameters (basis weight, moisture, strength, brightness)
• Chemical dosing and process control systems

Proven success in process troubleshooting, optimization, and cost reduction.

Knowledge of automation systems (DCS, QCS) and process monitoring tools.

Familiar with environmental and sustainability practices (effluent treatment, emission control, recycling).

Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.