Associate R&D Scientist / Engineer - Packaging

Description & Requirements

WestRock (NYSE :WRK) 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 more fiber-based packaging forward.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the R&D Manager, the Associate R&D Scientist/Engineer will perform a variety of qualitative and quantitative testing in the endeavor to develop, launch, and support sustainable packaging products for various commercial markets. The role will support innovation project trials in WestRock’s pilot plant and manufacturing facilities. It requires developing and executing processes that evaluate the performance of various paperboard-based substrates used in packaging applications by WestRock’s customers.

The work is innovation-intense and requires a high level of creativity. The successful candidate can expect to tackle a variety of challenging tasks and opportunities to advance sustainable packaging efforts.

The role further includes technical support to other R&D Scientists in packaging testing, analysis, and evaluation.

How You Will Impact WestRock

• Lead fit-for-use and customer properties requirement testing to solve technical problems.
• Work with R&D scientists and other cross-functional teams on strategic projects for product development to address unmet customer needs.
• Actively participate in planning, performing, analyzing, and documenting testing and pilot trials at our facilities and plant locations, including testing and sampling at customer facilities to support R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Safety is paramount to WestRock, a focus on safe work practices will be required. Report safety concerns to management for continuous improvement.
• Create prototype materials and collect, compile, and analyze data using simple statistical tools.
• Provide on the road trial and mill activity support
• Learn new test methods to expand materials science and technology innovation capabilities.
• Operate and calibrate equipment.

WestRock Logo

What You Need

• Strong communication skills, verbal and written
• Knowledge of papermaking and paperboard products preferred
• Basic computer skills to include proficiency with spreadsheet
• Ability to lift and carry samples routinely weighing 50 pounds
• BA/BS in hard sciences (Chemistry, biology, packaging, paper science, or related fields)
• High degree of mechanical aptitude and technical curiosity
• Knowledge of coating chemistry, barrier materials and packaging development preferred
• Strong teamwork skills, including ability to contribute to cross functional teams
• Ability to travel up to 40%
• Paper and packaging industry experience is preferred
• Ability to function independently with minimal oversight, high degree of initiative
• Ability to contribute in a lab, pilot plant and production environment
• 0-2 years’ experience
• Manufacturing experience preferred

What We Offer

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
• 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.
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities

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.