Material Handler 1

Smurfit Westrock; Woodridge, Northern (IL, KY); On-site; USD 45,847,000 - 57,308,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training

Competitive compensation

Health, dental & vision insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Smurfit WestRock in Illinois is seeking 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 smoothly, following job tickets and production schedules.

The role emphasizes accuracy, timely communication across departments, and adherence to safety rules.

Qualifications

• Reads, understands, and communicates in English.
• Reads and interprets safety rules, operating instructions, and manuals.
• Demonstrates accuracy, reliability, decision-making, and time management.

Responsibilities

• Review job tickets and production schedules to organize material loads.
• Set up machines with required materials for production runs.
• Pull, stock, and return products and supplies as needed.
• Operate pallet jack to move materials within the department.
• Verify job instructions using job bags prior to production.

Skills

Reading comprehension

Effective communication

Attention to detail

Time management

Self-motivation

Job description

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.

• short-term bonus incentive


• health, dental and vision insurance


• flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts


• retirement savings plans


• life and disability insurance programs


• paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law


• 10 days of paid vacation


• 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.

The application window is expected to close by 11/4/2026.

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