Die Maker

Smurfit-Westrock; Conover (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock in Conover, NC is seeking a Die Maker to build, inspect, and repair dies, ensuring alignment with production schedules and quality standards.

This hands-on role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and teamwork with production staff to drive efficiency and safety.

Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and be able to read blueprints and use basic measurement tools.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Ability to use basic measurement devices (calipers, tape measures).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety and quality workmanship.

Responsibilities

• Prepare dies to support production schedules and customer requirements.
• Review upcoming production schedules for tooling readiness.
• Read and interpret blueprints to build and modify dies.
• Calculate rule heights and scoring for die construction.
• Knife, clean, rubber, and nick dies for production.
• Inspect dies and tooling for accuracy and quality.
• Collaborate with teams to improve processes.
• Maintain housekeeping and safety standards.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprint reading

Caliper gauges

Measurement devices

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Blueprints

Calipers

Job description

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

The Opportunity

Join Smurfit Westrock as a Die Maker, where you will play a critical role in preparing and maintaining dies that support efficient production and high-quality packaging products. In this position, you will be responsible for building, inspecting, repairing, and preparing dies to meet production schedules and customer requirements while ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

This hands-on role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement. A typical day may include reviewing production schedules, reading blueprints, preparing dies for upcoming jobs, evaluating tooling performance, making repairs and adjustments, and collaborating with production teams to improve operational efficiency and product quality.

How You Will Impact Smurfit Westrock

• Prepare dies to support production schedules and customer requirements.
• Review upcoming production schedules to ensure tooling readiness.
• Read and interpret blueprints and specifications to accurately build and modify dies.
• Calculate rule heights and scoring requirements for die construction.
• Knife, clean, rubber, and nick dies to prepare them for production runs.
• Inspect dies, die boards, counters, and steel plates received from suppliers to ensure accuracy and quality.
• Evaluate die performance and identify opportunities for production improvements and increased efficiency.
• Repair and maintain dies to ensure optimal production performance.
• Assist with departmental reporting, data collection, and inventory-related activities.
• Collaborate with management, technicians, and production teams to resolve issues and improve processes.
• Maintain housekeeping and workplace organization standards established by management.
• Follow all quality, food safety, environmental, and workplace safety requirements.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Shift:7am-7pm;4 on 4 off schedule.

What You Need to Succeed

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to use and read basic measurement devices, including calculators, tape measures, rulers, and caliper gauges.
• General mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to operate pallet jacks.
• Ability to read and follow detailed instructions, blueprints, and technical documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic computer skills.
• Knowledge of carton manufacturing processes and quality requirements.
• Ability to inspect and verify tooling accuracy and production readiness.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment while adhering to all established safety requirements.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

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.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.

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.