Job Information
WestRock Company Machine Operator - R&D Specialist in Richmond, Virginia
The opportunity:
The R&D Machine Operator is a specialist position that reports to the R&D Manager for the Pilot Plant and performs a variety of operational and maintenance tasks with trial work in support of innovation projects. In this role, you will interact with corporate professionals to develop a variety of processes used to produce paperboard-based substrates that are used in packaging applications by WestRockâs customers. The work is innovation-intense and requires a high level of creativity, flexibility, and professionalism. To be successful in this role, you will be expected to tackle a variety of challenging tasks and opportunities with a positive attitude communicating with a variety of business professionals from scientists to engineers.
How you will impact WestRock:
Safely operate a variety of equipment including mechanical and chemical processes
Participate in rapid prototyping for packaging formats
Actively participate in planning and executing pilot trials in the Pilot Plant and potentially other manufacturing locations including representing WRK at customer sites
Work with R&D scientists and other cross-functional teams on strategic projects for product development
Focus on safe work practices which is paramount to WestRock
Operate test equipment and perform laboratory experiments
Design and produce custom parts and prototypes
Operate a forklift as needed; forklift training will be provided
What you need to succeed:
High School Degree required; Associates Degree and/or training in maintenance or mechanical/electrical fields preferred
0-2+ years' experience
Manufacturing experience preferred
Paper and packaging industry experience is preferred
Knowledge of papermaking and paperboard products preferred
Ability to function independently with minimal oversight, high degree of initiative
Strong teamwork skills, including ability to contribute to cross functional teams
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written to interact with corporate professionals
High degree of mechanical aptitude and technical curiosity
Ability to contribute in a lab, pilot plant and production environment
Basic computer skills to include proficiency with spreadsheet
Ability to lift and carry samples routinely weighing 50 pounds
Ability to travel up to 15%
Must be able to work from 7 - 4 PM M-F
Must have demonstrated examples of how you have offered solutions to problems in previous work environments.
Willing to learn multiple machines.
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.
WestRock (NYSE:WRK) partners with our customers to provide differentiated paper and packaging solutions that help them win in the marketplace. WestRock's team members support customers around the world from locations spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Learn more at www.westrock.com.
WestRock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. WestRock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.