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.

The Lab Manager will lead the Corrugated Innovation & Testing Lab in Carol Stream, which serves as a hub for performance testing and technical validation of packaging solutions across North America. This role is responsible for managing day-to-day lab operations, supporting product development initiatives, and executing test protocols for both innovation projects and manufacturing support requests. The ideal candidate will ensure lab output aligns with business needs and technical rigor, while fostering a collaborative and safety-focused culture.

 

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

 

Manage lab personnel, equipment, scheduling, and test protocols to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with innovation prioritiesSupport R&D and commercialization efforts by conducting or coordinating mechanical, material, and environmental testing on corrugated board and packaging prototypesEnsure adherence to quality standards, safety regulations, and industry testing best practicesPartner with product development, application development, and design teams to validate concepts and prototypes with timely feedback and actionable dataMaintain and evolve lab capabilities to support the future technical needs of the Corrugated division, including the integration of new testing methods and digital toolsCollaborate with plant technical teams to troubleshoot customer quality concerns and validate manufacturing process improvements

 

What you need to succeed:

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field10+ years in a lab or testing environment within the packaging or paper industry; corrugated packaging experience preferredExperience managing technical staff and overseeing lab operationsFamiliarity with TAPPI and ISTA testing standards for corrugated packagingStrong organizational, analytical, and project management skillsAbility to translate test results into insights for technical and commercial teamsComfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic R&D environment

 

 

 

 

 

What We Offer

A corporate culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellenceA competitive salary and bonus structure that reflects skills, competencies and potentialComprehensive training and development opportunitiesCareer growth within a global packaging leader where safety, quality, sustainability and people are fundamental to daily operations Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. The salary range for this position is $114,750.00 - $191,250.00, depending on your role, level, and location. The range listed is also the expected pay for roles in Illinois and Colorado. The benefits for this role 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 pay will be based on factors such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about this posting, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process. You may apply online at and the application window is expected to close by 20-May-2026.