Engineering

Smurfit Westrock plc; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training

Competitive salary

Sustainability focus

Global packaging company

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock plc is seeking a Packaging Engineering Intern for Summer 2027 in Detroit, MI. The role involves supporting the packaging engineering team in design, development, testing, and evaluation of protective packaging solutions across corrugated, foam, and related materials.

You will collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales, and Operations to gain exposure from concept to implementation, while pursuing a Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science degree.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or related field.
• Coursework in packaging design, materials, manufacturing processes, or package testing preferred.
• Familiarity with CAD software such as ArtiosCAD or SolidWorks preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist Packaging Engineers with design and development of packaging solutions.
• Support creation of sketches, CAD drawings, specifications, samples, and project documentation.
• Assist in packaging testing, validation, and data collection activities.
• Analyze test results and help prepare reports and recommendations.
• Evaluate materials and designs for performance, manufacturability, and cost.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Communication

Teamwork

Multitasking

Education

Packaging Engineering degree

Tools

ArtiosCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

Packaging Engineering Intern, Summer 2027

Locations

MI Detroit

Employment Type

Full Time

Date Posted

20-Oct-2026

Relocation Support

Yes

Description & Requirements

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.

General Description of Position:

The Packaging Engineer Intern will support the Packaging Engineering team in the design, development, testing, and evaluation of innovative protective packaging solutions. This internship provides hands‑on experience working with corrugated packaging, foam, and other packaging materials while assisting with customer projects, packaging analysis, CAD design, and testing activities.

The intern will collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales, and Operations teams to gain exposure to packaging development processes from concept through implementation. This position is designed to provide practical industry experience for students pursuing a degree in Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science.

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field, preferably at Michigan State University's School of Packaging
• Completion of coursework related to packaging design, materials, manufacturing processes, or package testing preferred
• Familiarity with CAD software such as ArtiosCAD, SolidWorks, or similar design programs preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to learn packaging design, testing methodologies, and manufacturing processes

Essential Functions/Job Duties:

• Assist Packaging Engineers with the design and development of packaging solutions for customers
• Support the creation of sketches, CAD drawings, specifications, samples, and project documentation
• Assist in packaging testing, validation, and data collection activities
• Analyze test results and help prepare reports and recommendations
• Evaluate packaging materials and designs for performance, manufacturability, and cost effectiveness
• Support package development projects from concept through prototype and production stages
• Participate in customer and internal project meetings as needed
• Collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales, and Operations personnel to support project objectives
• Utilize CAD software to modify existing packaging designs and create simple design concepts
• Assist with sample development and coordination of package testing activities
• Maintain project records, data, and documentation in accordance with company standards
• Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety requirements and good housekeeping practices
• Develop an understanding of packaging materials, testing methods, manufacturing processes, and customer requirements

Additional Functions/Job Duties:

• Provide reports, project updates, and presentations as requested
• Support continuous improvement and cost‑reduction initiatives
• Assist with research on packaging trends, materials, and sustainability opportunities
• Other duties as assigned

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.