Production Shift Lead - 2nd Shift

Smurfit Westrock; Kentucky; On-site; USD 32,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Paid vacation & holidays

Comprehensive training

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock, based in the United States, is seeking a Production Shift Lead for the West Chester site. The role involves supervising a shift, ensuring safe operation of production equipment, and directing Machine Operators to maintain throughput and quality.

Responsibilities include monitoring material flow, addressing alarms with the supervisor, and ensuring clean, organized areas. The position requires 3+ years in corrugated manufacturing and leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions.
• Experience using basic hand tools.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting in a fast-paced production setting.
• Basic computer proficiency (email, data entry) and administrative skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe and efficient production operations to meet daily output targets.
• Direct Machine Operator(s) to maintain setup and throughput.
• Troubleshoot downtimes and coordinate with the supervisor to restore operations.
• Perform quality checks and support traceability through documentation.

Skills

Safety policies adherence

Machine operation

Troubleshooting

Quality checks

Documentation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Basic hand tools

Job description

Production Shift Lead - West Chester

Shift: 1st

The Opportunity

• The Production Lead is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production equipment during their shift. This role provides day-to-day direction to Machine Operator(s), ensures production machines run consistently and without interruption, and supports the achievement of quality, safety, and productivity goals.
• The Production Lead monitors material flow, addresses machine alarms in coordination with the Production Supervisor, and maintains a clean, organized assembly area. In the absence of the Production Supervisor, this position reports to the Production Supervisor and helps ensure continuity of operations.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

• Promote a safety-first culture by following and enforcing Smurfit Westrock safety policies and processes on every shift.
• Lead safe and efficient production operations to achieve daily output targets while minimizing waste and downtime.
• Direct Machine Operator(s) to maintain steady performance, proper setup, and consistent throughput.
• Monitor machine production to prevent shortages and production interruptions.
• Troubleshoot machine downtimes and coordinate with the Production Supervisor (and other resources as needed) to restore normal operation quickly and safely.
• Perform quality control checks and inspections to ensure part conformity and uphold established product standards.
• Document production activity, quality checks, and process changes completely, accurately, and on time to support traceability and repeatability.
• Maintain established quality standards, machine efficiencies, and production levels—and communicate expectations clearly to the team.
• Train and onboard new team members by explaining role responsibilities, demonstrating safe work methods, and reinforcing standard procedures.
• Follow established procedures to sustain a clean, organized environment and support continuous improvement efforts.
• Collaborate with all departments to meet daily tasks and operational priorities.
• Support other team members and departments as directed and complete other duties as assigned.

What you need to succeed

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Experience using basic hand tools.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting capability in a fast-paced production setting.
• Basic computer proficiency (e-mail, data entry) and administrative skills.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to operate pallet jacks and move materials safely.
• Working knowledge of safe work practices and expectations in a manufacturing environment.
• Understanding quality practices and respect for product standards.
• Familiarity with applicable safety requirements, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) expectations related to machine guarding and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow company quality and environmental policies, and established work instructions/procedures.
• Exposure to continuous improvement methods such as 5S, Lean manufacturing, or similar production systems
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye, ear, hand protection, and safety footwear as designated
• Learn, utilize, and become proficient in company production, inventory, quality, and reporting systems to support daily operations, monitor performance, and ensure accurate documentation.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3+ years of experience in corrugated manufacturing or a related manufacturing environment.
• Previous leadership or team lead experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of corrugator, converting, and material handling processes.
• Ability to read production schedules, work orders, and quality specifications.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including overtime and weekends as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, and moving machinery.

What we offer

• 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.

The starting rate is $23.14 to $31.30 per hour, depending on your role, level, and location. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 10 days of paid vacation, and 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.

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