Description & Requirements Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

Manufacturing Engineering Spring Intern/Co-op (2027) – Various Locations

Position Overview: The Manufacturing Engineering Intern/Co-op will work in a paper mill manufacturing environment supporting operational, reliability, and process improvement initiatives. This role provides hands-on experience applying engineering fundamentals to large-scale industrial systems while collaborating with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.

Interns and co-ops will contribute to projects focused on safety, productivity, cost reduction, equipment reliability, energy efficiency, and environmental performance, preparing students for full-time engineering roles in manufacturing or process industries.

Program Details & Locations:

Term: January 2027 – May 2027Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week)Work Location: Smurfit Westrock Paper mill facilities across the U.S; Opportunities vary by location and business need

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock: 

Apply engineering fundamentals to real-world manufacturing challengesAnalyze operational data and present findings to engineering and plant leadershipParticipate in continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiativesFollow and promote all plant safety rules and best practicesCollaborate with operations, maintenance, EHS, and engineering teamsManage day-to-day activities of assigned roles, complete project tasks, and implement new processes

You will gain exposure to one or more of the following fields within the Pulp, Paper, and Packaging Manufacturing Industry, working in departments such as the Pulp Mill, Paper Machine, Utilities & Energy Systems (Power and Recovery), Maintenance & Reliability, and Process Controls.

Opportunities by Department:

Pulp MillAnalyze pulping and bleaching processes to improve yield, kappa control, and energy efficiencySupport optimization of chemical usage and recovery systemsMonitor and analyze process data to reduce variability and improve fiber qualityAssist with environmental compliance related to water, effluent, and emissionsPaper Machine Support paper machine performance optimization (throughput, quality, runnability)Analyze process variability and conduct root cause analysis of breaks or defectsSupport trials related to fiber blends, additives, and operating conditionsEvaluate energy usage in dryer sections and recommend efficiency improvementsUtilities & Energy SystemsSupport boiler, turbine, and steam distribution system optimizationAnalyze energy usage and support energy reduction initiativesAssist with water balance studies and process water optimizationSupport reliability improvements for critical utility assetsMaintenance & ReliabilityPerform root cause failure analysis (RCFA) on equipment issuesSupport preventive and predictive maintenance programsAnalyze maintenance and downtime data to improve asset reliabilityAssist with outage planning and executionElectrical, Controls & AutomationSupport PLC, DCS, and SCADA systemsAssist with troubleshooting instrumentation and control loopsAnalyze process control data to improve stability and throughputSupport automation, digitalization, and control modernization projects

Requirements:

Candidates must be actively enrolled in an accredited engineering college/university program pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Paper Science/Engineering, or a related discipline.Ability to work effectively in an industrial manufacturing environmentBe able to Maintain strict adherence to safety rules and regulationsAbility to commit to a full-time work schedule for the duration of the co-op

What you need to succeed: 

Demonstrate an interest, willingness, and drive to learn new things; seek to understand concepts, processes, and ideas within area of functional expertiseExcellent verbal and written communication skills: Clearly exchanges thoughts, ideas, and messages through written, verbal, and non-verbal methods that promote an understanding with the target audience; listens carefully and attentivelyStrong attention to detail and Problem-Solving: Identifies and analyzes problems; weighs relevance and accuracy of information; generates and evaluates alternative solutions; makes recommendations; demonstrates tackling a problem by using a logical, systematic, or sequential approachAbility to organize and prioritize workload: Plans, arranges and/or monitors work to ensure achievement of desired results; establishes a systematic course of action to accomplish objectivesDemonstrates agility, flexibility, and a willingness to modify one’s approach to achieve desired results; responds quickly to changing demands, processes, and updated informationCollaboration: Works effectively with others to complete a task or achieve a common objective; ability to cooperate in both interpersonal and team relationships to foster enthusiasm and maintain mutual trust, candor, and respect for others. 

What we offer: 

Competitive hourly pay based on education and experienceA culture based on safety, loyalty, integrity, and respect.Hands-on engineering experience in large-scale industrial operationsMentorship from experienced manufacturing engineersComprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities Exposure to a global organization where Safety, Sustainability, 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.