Converting & Packaging Operations Lead

Smurfit Westrock; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Converting Supervisor to lead the production shift in a high-demand packaging facility in Illinois. You will supervise operators, manage safety, quality, and delivery, and drive continuous improvement across processes.

The role requires 3+ years in corrugator/converting supervision, Lean/Six Sigma experience, and strong problem-solving, communication, and coaching skills. Demanding but rewarding, with competitive compensation and benefits.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or G.E.D. – Required
• Bachelor’s degree (Business Management, Engineering or Operations Management) - Preferred
• 3+ years of corrugator / converting supervisory experience in a packaging facility – Required
• Experience working in a Lean environment; Six Sigma Green or Black Belt Certification.
• Proven experience in operations, manufacturing, or supply chain.
• Excellent communication and listening skills.
• Proven track record of effective problem-solving.
• Ability to embrace continuous improvement.
• Strong collaboration and teaming skills with stakeholders across functions.
• Ability to coach and train employees.
• Ability to be an on-shift resource for troubleshooting problems in the process as well as maintenance issues.
• Ability to make independent, effective decisions.
• Possess the ability to be a self-directed team player.
• Flexibility to work multiple shifts.

Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the shift with focus on safety, quality, delivery and cost
• Act as first point of contact for operators regarding mechanical failure or production issues
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and enforce control procedures
• Coordinate production activities with other departments to meet goals in a timely and cost-effective manner
• Monitor production activities to eliminate waste and ensure adherence to schedules
• Input production data into system to measure KPIs around efficiencies, downtime and inventory
• Provide recommendations to improve safety, environmental and health of the facility
• Produce daily reports on shift production and review daily goals
• Control load factors and workflow to maximize capacity and labor efficiency
• Coach and develop staff through performance reviews and training
• Recruit, orient, train employees and develop growth opportunities
• Direct maintenance to troubleshoot problems and perform preventative maintenance
• Enforce safety regulations and promote safety culture
• Ensure staff follow company standards and meet customer commitments

Skills

Corrugator/Converting supervision

Lean

Six Sigma Green/Black Belt

Communication

Problem solving

Collaboration

Coaching

Shift troubleshooting

Education

High School diploma or G.E.D.

Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering or Operations Management

Tools

None

Job description

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Converting Supervisor to lead the production shift in a high-demand packaging facility in Illinois. You will supervise operators, manage safety, quality, and delivery, and drive continuous improvement across processes.

The role requires 3+ years in corrugator/converting supervision, Lean/Six Sigma experience, and strong problem-solving, communication, and coaching skills. Demanding but rewarding, with competitive compensation and benefits.