Production Manager: Packaging & Operations Leader

Smurfit Westrock; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 83,000 - 139,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Life and disability insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Health savings account (HSA) / FSA

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Production Manager in Woodridge, IL to oversee manufacturing operations, ensure on-time quality production, and lead cost- and safety-focused initiatives. The role requires strong leadership, engineering background, and extensive manufacturing experience, including the printing sector.

The position emphasizes safety, continuous improvement, and team development, with responsibilities spanning budgeting, capital planning, and performance management.

Qualifications

• Associates degree in related field or equivalent work experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or industrial engineering preferred.
• 3–5 years manufacturing management experience.
• 7–10 years manufacturing experience, preferably with at least 5 years in the printing industry.
• Strong math and measurement skills to track, analyze, and report on operating metrics.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient with MS Office and related software.
• Ability to perform well in a high-paced and, at times, stressful environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven record of fostering teamwork and establishing effective safety programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and leadership in the assigned departments to ensure timely production of quality products.
• Develop and manage manufacturing capacity to meet product requirements and schedules.
• Monitor maintenance status and production rates to sustain uninterrupted flow and output.
• Support preventative maintenance programs to maximize asset utilization and ROI.
• Lead safety initiatives and enforce safety guidelines through active committee participation.
• Drive training, performance reviews and development plans to build a capable team.

Skills

Leadership

Safety leadership

Team development

Strong math & metrics

Communication skills

Education

Associate's degree

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical/industrial eng.

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Production Manager in Woodridge, IL to oversee manufacturing operations, ensure on-time quality production, and lead cost- and safety-focused initiatives. The role requires strong leadership, engineering background, and extensive manufacturing experience, including the printing sector.

The position emphasizes safety, continuous improvement, and team development, with responsibilities spanning budgeting, capital planning, and performance management.