Production Laborer

Smurfit-Westrock; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical w/ HSA

Mental Health

401(k) with 5% company match

Paid vacation time & holidays

Life Insurance & AD&D

Disability Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Company culture based on integrity and

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Production Laborer to support daily production operations, equipment make-ready, and product handling in a fast-paced packaging environment. You will help ensure quality, safety, and efficiency while learning lean manufacturing practices.

The role emphasizes teamwork, basic math and data entry, and the ability to read specs and follow instructions. This entry-level opportunity includes comprehensive safety training and benefits.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Up to one year of manufacturing experience preferred.
• Basic computer skills and data entry.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new processes and adapt to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Assist machine operators with daily production activities.
• Set up, prepare, operate, and assist in machine make-ready processes.
• Start production and assembly machinery at the beginning of the shift.
• Monitor equipment during operation to ensure specifications and tolerances are maintained.
• Read specification sheets and prepare load tags according to production requirements.
• Perform product handling activities including packing, sealing, labeling, palletizing, and material movement.
• Place dunnage on pallets and ensure finished pallets meet quality and presentation standards.
• Assist with manual shrink wrapping and securing of finished products.
• Maintain machine cleanliness and housekeeping standards throughout the shift.
• Assist in troubleshooting operational and equipment-related issues.
• Support quality, waste reduction, and productivity improvement initiatives.
• Train and assist coworkers in developing operational knowledge and skills.

Skills

Attention to detail

English literacy

Basic math

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Data entry

Forklift experience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift operation

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.

PRODUCTION

The Opportunity:

The Production Laborer is responsible for supporting production operations by assisting machine operators, handling finished products, maintaining housekeeping standards, and ensuring machinery and equipment operate safely and efficiently. This position performs a variety of production-related duties including product handling, machine setup assistance, quality monitoring, packaging, palletizing, and continuous improvement activities. The Production Laborer works closely with production teams to support operational efficiency, product quality, workplace safety, and customer satisfaction.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all Smurfit Westrock safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Comply with all facility safety standards and operating procedures.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, near misses, and safety concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment at all times.
• Participate in safety training and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Utilize proper lifting techniques and material handling practices.
• Support and promote a culture of safety and accountability throughout the facility.
• Learn and follow all local, company, and regulatory safety requirements and procedures.

Production Responsibilities

• Assist machine operators with daily production activities.
• Set up, prepare, operate, and assist in machine make-ready processes.
• Start production and assembly machinery at the beginning of the shift.
• Monitor equipment during operation to ensure specifications and tolerances are maintained.
• Read specification sheets and prepare load tags according to production requirements.
• Perform product handling activities including counting, packing, sealing, labeling, palletizing, and material movement.
• Place dunnage on pallets and ensure finished pallets meet quality and presentation standards.
• Assist with manual shrink wrapping and securing of finished products.
• Perform routine cleaning and housekeeping activities, including removal of paper dust and debris from machinery.
• Maintain machine cleanliness and housekeeping standards throughout the shift.
• Assist in troubleshooting operational and equipment-related issues.
• Support quality, waste reduction, and productivity improvement initiatives.
• Train and assist coworkers in developing operational knowledge and skills.
• Assist other departments and operations as directed by management.
• Participate in training and development activities to enhance job knowledge and performance.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by management.

Operational Responsibilities

• Support production goals through safe and efficient machine operation.
• Collaborate with operators and team members to maximize productivity and quality.
• Ensure products meet established quality standards and customer specifications.
• Assist in reducing downtime by promptly reporting equipment issues.
• Follow established operating procedures, work instructions, and quality requirements.
• Maintain accurate production-related information and documentation as required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts focused on safety, quality, and operational efficiency.

What you need to succeed:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Up to one (1) year of manufacturing, production, corrugated, or related experience preferred.
• Basic computer skills and data entry abilities.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Basic mathematical skills, including the ability to perform calculations involving percentages, proportions, and measurements.
• Ability to identify problems, gather information, and make sound decisions.
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new processes and adapt to changing priorities.
• Regular and reliable attendance required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a corrugated packaging or manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience operating or assisting with production machinery.
• Knowledge of manufacturing quality standards and production processes.
• Forklift or material handling experience preferred.
• Experience participating in continuous improvement or lean manufacturing initiatives.

What we offer:

Benefit eligibility begins Day 1

• Benefits include:
• Medical w/ HSA
• Mental Health
• 401(k) with 5% company match
• Paid vacation time & holidays
• Life Insurance & AD&D
• Short- & Long-term Disability Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

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.