WestRock

Sr. Mgr, Mfg Ops

WestRock • $140K — $200K *
Longview, WA 98632In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
11 - 15 years of experience
Reposted 1 week ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (preferably in Pulp & Paper Science) or equivalent education and high-level supervisory experience.
  • 12-15+ years of paper mill operating experience, with extensive background in machine-level supervision and multi-area management.
  • Proven leadership skills in cross-functional teams and driving organizational change.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with proficiency in Microsoft Office and enterprise management software (SAP/JDE).
  • Willingness to regularly perform walk-throughs in a mill environment and available for periodic weekend and after-hours duties.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement comprehensive safety policies to promote an injury-free workplace.
  • Lead performance metrics across all paper machines, addressing complex operational issues with long-term solutions.
  • Collaborate with the Paper Mill Manager to align operations with global business objectives.
  • Assist in managing department budget and maintenance spending; oversee capital improvement projects from start to finish.
  • Strategize on major outages and coordinate maintenance for reliability and performance optimization.
  • Champion a culture of Continuous Improvement, ensuring timely completion of actionable items.
  • Cultivate positive labor relations in a union environment and mentor staff to enhance workforce skills.

Benefits

  • Group health insurance options, including health, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts.
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching.
  • Short-term bonus incentives and life/disability insurance programs.
  • Paid time off including vacation days and holidays.
Full Job Description
General Information

Job ID
ATR60908

Posting Job Title
Assistant Paper Mill Manager

Locations
WA Longview Mill

Employment Type
Full Time

Date Posted
22-May-2026

Relocation Support
Yes

Description & Requirements

The opportunity:

This Assistant Paper Mill Manager position is a dual-focus leadership role responsible for the total performance of a subset of the paper mill operations while providing direct oversight and technical strategy for the paper machine systems. This position directs safety, environmental compliance, product quality, and cost-efficiency for multiple machines (including integrated areas like OCC and s). You will lead a high-performing team of superintendents, supervisors, engineers, and union hourly employees to optimize a multi-thousand-ton daily production system.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

  • Develop and implement mill-wide safety policies while actively coaching floor-level crews to ensure a proactive, injury-free workplace.
  • Lead performance metrics for productivity, uptime, and quality across all paper machines; troubleshoot complex operating issues and implement long-term, cost-effective solutions.
  • Partner with the Paper Mill Manager to align paper mill activities with global business goals, including grade development and market feasibility.
  • Assist with ownership of the department budget and maintenance spend. Identify, develop, and lead capital improvement projects from conception through execution.
  • Lead the strategy for major outages and Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) execution; coordinate with maintenance teams to maximize reliability and machine clothing life.
  • Serve as the primary champion for a Continuous Improvement culture, driving the RI process and ensuring actionable items are closed timely.
  • Foster positive labor relations in a union environment; mentor and coach superintendents and salaried staff to develop a skilled, energized workforce.


What you need:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (Pulp & Paper Science preferred) or an equivalent combination of education and high-level supervisory experience.
  • 12-15+ years of paper mill operating experience, with a significant background in machine-level supervision and multi-area management.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and facilitate organizational change in a fast-paced, industrial environment.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office and enterprise management programs (SAP/JDE).
  • Ability to perform regular walk-throughs in a mill environment (exposure to heat/noise). Must be available for periodic weekend duty and after-hours emergency response.


Leadership and Management Responsibilities

  • Directly manages Area Superintendents, Assistant Superintendents, and Engineering support teams.
  • Provides guidance in areas including performance management, mentoring, and managing disciplinary actions in accordance with company policy and union contracts.
  • Manages and maintains operations within allocated performance and floor-level budget metrics.
  • Coordinates with sales, marketing, and vendors to optimize machine schedules and target reliability.


Compensation offered:

  • Salary Range: $140,000 - $200,000. Annual Incentive Plan (AIP) available.


Benefits offered:

Smurfit Westrock offers a variety of benefits and group health insurance options, the premium costs of which are currently shared by employees and Smurfit Westrock (e.g., health, dental, vision, disability, flexible spending account, HSA, life insurance, paid time off, employee assistance program, matching 401K).

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.


About WestRock

Westrock Coffee Company is an integrated coffee, tea, flavors, extracts, and ingredients solutions provider in the U.S., providing coffee sourcing, supply chain management, product development, roasting, packaging, and distribution services to the retail, foodservice and restaurant, convenience store and travel center, CPG, non-commercial, and hospitality industries.

WestRock Careers

Joining WestRock means becoming part of a global team dedicated to supporting some of the world’s leading companies in packaging and distribution solutions. At WestRock, we believe in fostering an environment of growth, innovation, and leadership, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to advance their careers in a dynamic industry.

Work You’ll Do

At WestRock, your work will directly contribute to our mission of redefining how packaging solutions can drive business success. As part of our team, you will use your skills to collaborate on market-leading projects that focus on sustainability and innovation. With a culture that values diversity and leadership, you will be empowered to lead projects at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and customer engagement.

Join Our Market-Leading Team

Become a part of a team where your ideas and contributions are valued. At WestRock, we are committed to providing job opportunities that enhance your professional skills while promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion. Our team consists of over 50,000 dedicated professionals who are leaders in the packaging industry, driving transformation and delivering results with precision and creativity.

Innovative Work

Engage in work that matters with a company that offers diverse job opportunities, from positions in engineering and design to marketing and supply chain management. WestRock is a place where innovation is at the forefront of what we do, integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Be Part of a Great Team

Working at WestRock means being part of a supportive network that encourages professional growth and development. Enjoy the benefits of a robust internal networking system, diversity training programs, and leadership development opportunities that help you build a fulfilling career.

Future-Proof Your Career

With WestRock, you are not just finding a job; you are building a career. We offer a wide range of career paths, supported by comprehensive training programs and development opportunities that help you grow at every stage of your professional journey. Whether through an internship, entry-level position, or a leadership role, your potential for growth is limitless.

Explore Job Opportunities and Internships

Discover the various career paths WestRock offers. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, explore how your skills and interests align with our needs. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are curious, innovative, and ready to lead.

Stay Connected

Join the WestRock team and stay up-to-date with the latest in industry trends and company news. Search open positions that match your skills and interests, and prepare your resume to take the first step towards a rewarding career at WestRock.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at WestRock.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players ready to make a difference.

SEARCH WESTROCK JOBS

At WestRock, we are more than just a packaging company; we are a team that believes in innovation, sustainability, and driving growth through inclusive and diverse global leadership. Join us, and be part of a company that values what you bring to the table and helps you turn your professional aspirations into reality.
Learn more about WestRock
Size
49,900 employees
Market Cap
$8.8 billion
Industry
Food & Beverages
Net Income
-$677.4 million
Founded
1953
5 Year Trend
+7.4%
Revenue
$17.5 billion
NASDAQ
WRK
* Ladders Estimates

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