Paper Machine Entry Level Prod

Smurfit Westrock Company; Alabama; On-site; USD 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock’s Mahrt Operations in Cottonton, AL, seeks safety‑mocused, dependable individuals for an entry level Paper Machine Production role. You will assist with daily production tasks, cut cores, load winders, and keep a clean, safe, and compliant work area while following procedures and safety rules.

Starting pay is $23.41 per hour, with a raise to $25.79 upon qualification, plus benefits after a 90‑day probation.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Pass required pre‑employment assessments (Rulers & Gauges, Numerical Ability, Reading Comprehension).
• Pass pre‑employment physical, background check, and drug screen.
• Clear communication skills in a heavy industrial setting.
• Ability to work safely in a heavy industrial environment.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts (Southern Swing).
• Reliable employment history and accountability.
• Ability to read reports, gauges, signs, and written instructions.
• Must wear PPE including respirator, goggles, and ear protection.

Responsibilities

• Cutting paper cores to proper lengths per order specifications and plugging appropriate ends.
• Loading cores into the winder.
• Removing cores from designated storage areas.
• Assisting with winder start‑up under the direction of the Winder Operator.
• Emptying trash receptacles and ensuring proper disposal of waste paper.
• Assisting with basement cleanup during downtime.
• Emptying the vacuum deposit system.
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Following all safety rules, procedures, and instructions at all times.

Skills

Safety‑focused

Reliability

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Paper Machine Entry Level Production Position

Smurfit Westrock, Mahrt Operations, is seeking safety‑focused, dependable, and committed individuals to join our Paper Mill in Cottonton, AL. We are looking for candidates who are interested in building long‑term careers, take pride in their work, and demonstrate strong accountability and responsibility in a team‑oriented, industrial environment.

Position Summary

This role supports the operation of the Paper Machine by assisting team members with daily production activities. Successful candidates are those who consistently show up ready to work, follow procedures, work safely, and take ownership of their responsibilities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential functions in the Paper Machine Department include, but are not limited to:

• Cutting paper cores to proper lengths per order specifications and plugging appropriate ends
• Loading cores into the winder
• Removing cores from designated storage areas
• Assisting with winder start‑up under the direction of the Winder Operator
• Emptying trash receptacles and ensuring proper disposal of waste paper
• Assisting with basement cleanup during downtime
• Emptying the vacuum deposit system
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work area
• Following all safety rules, procedures, and instructions at all times

Compensation and Benefits

Mahrt Papermill offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package.

• Starting rate: $23.41 per hour
• Increase to $25.79 per hour upon successful qualification for the position
• Medical, dental, 401(k), and other benefits available following a 90‑day probationary period

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to pass required written pre‑employment assessments, including:
  • Rulers & Gauges
  • Numerical Ability
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Industrial Aptitude
    Testing will be scheduled for selected candidates
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment physical, background check, and drug screen
• Clear and effective communication skills
• Ability to work safely and responsibly in a heavy industrial environment
• Willingness and ability to work rotating shifts (Southern Swing)
• A consistent and reliable employment history, reflecting dependability and accountability
• Ability to read and comprehend reports, gauges, signs, and written instructions
• Must be able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as, but not limited to, Respirator, Goggles, and Ear Protection.

Our Ideal Candidates

We are especially interested in individuals who:

• Are committed to long‑term employment
• Take responsibility for their work and actions
• Demonstrate strong attendance, reliability, follow‑through, and critical thinking skills
• Value teamwork, safety, and continuous learning

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