Material Handler 1

Smurfit-Westrock; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training

Competitive compensation

Global packaging leader

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock in Woodridge, IL seeks a dependable Material Handler to support production by preparing, organizing and staging materials for each job run. You will ensure operators have the correct paper, inks and supplies to keep machines running efficiently.

You will pull, stock, set up materials, operate pallet jack, verify instructions, and communicate clearly with operators. A drug screen is required after a conditional offer; starting wage is $18/hour with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Read and communicate in English clearly and accurately.
• Follow safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions.
• Demonstrate accuracy, reliability, and time management.
• Pass color vision test and maintain dependable attendance.
• Perform essential functions with or without accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Review job tickets and production schedules to organize material loads.
• Set up each machine with required materials for scheduled runs.
• Pull, stock, break down, and return products and supplies as needed.
• Operate the pallet jack to move materials throughout the department.
• Verify job instructions using job bags prior to production.
• Communicate clearly with operators about materials and setup.
• Support operators during machine setup and production.
• Stock and unstock loads to maintain workflow efficiency.
• Maintain department areas, including sweeping and trash removal.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production needs.

Skills

English literacy

Reliability

Time management

Attention to detail

Team communication

Color vision

Tools

Pallet jack

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

We are seeking a dependable Material Handler to support production operations by preparing, organizing, and staging materials required for each job run. Working from job tickets and production schedules, you will ensure operators have the correct paper, inks, and supplies to keep machines running efficiently. This role is essential to maintaining smooth workflow, accurate material handling, and strong communication across departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Review job tickets and production schedules to organize and prepare material loads.
• Set up each machine with the required materials for scheduled production runs.
• Pull, stock, break down, and return products and supplies as needed.
• Operate the aerator safely and effectively.
• Operate a pallet jack to move materials throughout the department.
• Re‑verify job instructions using job bags prior to production.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with operators regarding materials and setup.
• Follow instructions and support operators during machine setup and production.
• Stock and unstock loads to maintain efficient workflow.
• Maintain assigned department areas, including sweeping and trash removal.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production needs.

What You Need to Succeed

• Ability to read, understand, and communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedural manuals.
• Strong competencies in accuracy, reliability, decision‑making, time management, and self‑motivation.
• Ability to pass a color vision test.
• Reliable attendance and dependability.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

What We Offer

• A workplace culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with opportunities to learn new skills and grow your career.
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and performance.
• A career with a global packaging leader where Safety, Sustainability, and Inclusion are core business priorities.

The starting rate is $18 per hour, depending on your role, level, and location. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 10 days of paid vacation, and 11 days of paid holidays, subject to annual change. Your actual pay will be based on your work location and other factors, such as your skills, experience, and education.

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.