Plant Operations Leader - Sustainable Packaging & Lean

Smurfit Westrock; Covington (VA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 203,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401k with match

Tuition reimbursement

Employee discounts

Referral bonus

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock in Low Moor, VA, seeks an Operations Manager to lead extrusion coating and converting, ensuring safety, quality, and on-time production. You will partner with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain to drive operational excellence.

The role emphasizes developing staff, Lean initiatives, budgeting, and cost control while maintaining customer satisfaction through reliable manufacturing and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent with manufacturing leadership experience.
• 7+ years in progressive manufacturing leadership roles.
• Experience leading plant operations in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of safety, quality, and operational excellence principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead plant operations to meet safety, quality, production and financial goals.
• Ensure compliance with safety/environmental regulations and company policies.
• Direct daily production activities to meet demand and KPIs.
• Support quality systems for product consistency and customer satisfaction.
• Conduct regular audits and implement corrective actions.
• Coach and develop production teams and drive engagement.
• Lead Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance to improve equipment reliability.
• Manage operating expenses and monitor material utilization.
• Report plant performance and ensure proper documentation.

Skills

Manufacturing leadership

Safety compliance

Operations planning

Budget management

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Manufacturing/Operations Management/Business

Tools

Microsoft Office

Manufacturing systems

Job description

Smurfit Westrock in Low Moor, VA, seeks an Operations Manager to lead extrusion coating and converting, ensuring safety, quality, and on-time production. You will partner with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain to drive operational excellence.

The role emphasizes developing staff, Lean initiatives, budgeting, and cost control while maintaining customer satisfaction through reliable manufacturing and continuous improvement.