Finishing Lead

Smurfit Westrock plc; Alabama; On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock plc in Alabama is seeking a Finishing Lead to manage operations in the gluing department. You will ensure compliance with safety and quality standards while effectively leading your team.

The ideal candidate will possess a High School diploma and significant experience in production leadership, particularly in folder/gluer operations. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of folder/gluer operation experience or 3-5 years as production lead.
• Must comply with SQF and workplace safety rules.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the gluing department’s performance.
• Ensure compliance with packaging safety and quality standards.
• Train new employees on machine operation.
• Perform quality checks according to established procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Mechanical aptitude

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title: Finishing Lead

Department: Finishing

Summary

As the Finishing Lead, you will be responsible for safely managing all aspects of the gluing department’s performance including productivity, quality, and preventative maintenance.

Essential Functions

• Contributes to team effort by exhibiting strong work ethic and problem‑solving skills.
• Ensure SQF/food packaging safety compliance.
• Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with company safety rules, procedures, and regulations.
• Demonstrates competency in all basic folds: straight‑line, lock‑bottom.
• Demonstrates competency in the use of the Leary inspection system.
• Able to perform machine make‑ready to set it up to run production. Prepares make‑ready, pre‑fold, glue system, final fold, delivery, stacker, bar code reader, pack station and inspection system.
• Operates machines in accordance with customer specifications and current standard operating procedures.
• Performs quality checks according to established procedures to ensure all Quality Standards (Copy checks, gluing and gluing detections checks, case label, line clearance, case pack) are being met.
• Monitors machine efficiencies & speeds to ensure production levels meet or exceed standards & make appropriate adjustments.
• Sets up bar code scanners, glue detectors, jam sensors, kick and ejection systems.
• Able to troubleshoot and make adjustments necessary to ensure quality and conformity of package material.
• Records and maintains Daily Management System reports at the end of shift.
• Effectively communicates with management.
• Keep waste within company guidelines.
• Assists in training of new employees and operators on machines.
• Able to work under minimal supervision.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

Marginal Functions

• May be required to empty trash carts at compactor or baler room. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

Minimum High School Diploma, GED

Protective Equipment

Safety glasses, ear plugs, steel toe boots, hairnet, beard net, gloves

Essential Knowledge

Strong Leadership and Communication skills. Mechanical aptitude.

Preferred Knowledge

5+ years of folder/gluer operation or 3‑5 years experience as production lead.

General

Compliance with workplace rules, policies and procedures, SQF, e.g., AIB, safety, etc.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to stand and work for up to 12 hours, lift up to 80 lbs, walk, push/pull equipment, kneel, climb steps, twist, crouch, and reach as necessary.

WestRock is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law.