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.

Smurfit Westrock the global leader in paper-based packaging is offering opportunities at their Belfast based plant (Mallusk Newtownabbey) The Belfast plant is the largest pharmaceutical packaging facility in Ireland and has been in existence for over 100 years. We offer secure full-time employment with excellent career development opportunities, highly competitive salary and employee incentives. The Belfast site has an annual turnover >£40 million and 170 FT employees. Due to continued growth, we are seeking to fill the role:  

Production Operative / Gluing Assistant – Pharmaceutical Packaging

Are you a reliable, detail-focused team player looking for a role where quality, consistency, and teamwork really matter? We’re looking for a proactive Gluing Assistant to support our finishing operations, playing an important role in delivering high-quality packaging to our customers.

If you enjoy working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and take pride in accuracy, teamwork, and learning new skills, this is a great opportunity to develop your career within pharmaceutical packaging.

Job Purpose

You will support the final finishing stage of our production process, working as part of a crew on the Finishing production line. You will follow standard operating procedures to ensure cartons are fed, glued, inspected, and packed to the required customer and quality standards, while supporting the Machine Operator and wider team.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Quality

Work as part of a crew on the Finishing production line, reporting to and supporting the Machine OperatorFeed cartons into the gluing machine in line with standard operating proceduresQuality check cartons whilst feeding into the gluing machineQuality check glued cartons as they exit the gluing linePack finished products into the correct corrugates in line with customer specificationsComply with sampling processes as per customer requirementsRotate duties across the finishing department as requiredWork in accordance with company procedures to comply with Health & Safety requirements

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

No experience required full training provided Experience in manufacturing/ print is desirable Ability to take ownership of output and product quality

Person Specification

Results‑driven with a strong focus on qualityFlexible and able to work a double‑day shift pattern, Monday to FridayAbility to work independently and as part of a teamStrong communication skillsConfident problem‑solver with a proactive mindsetAdaptable and open to change

Salary

Competitive salary: £29,000 – £32,000 (depending on experience)

Opportunities for Progression

Fully trained Gluing Assistants who demonstrate initiative, leadership, and strong technical ability will have opportunities to progress into:

Trainee Machine Operator rolesTechnical specialist or trainer rolesContinuous improvement or project roles

 

Benefits

Free onsite parkingEnhanced pension contributions195 hours flexible holiday allowance, plus 8 annual bank holidays Cycle to work scheme Company sponsored education opportunities Employee perks and discount platformEmployee Assistance ProgrammeLong service awardsReward and recognition initiativesShift premium paid in addition to basic salary