Innovation Lab Manager

Overview

Join to apply for the Innovation Lab Manager role at WestRock Company . 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.

Responsibilities

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

What You Need To Succeed

What We Offer

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 $105,750.00 - $176,250.00, depending on your role, level, and location. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. Your actual pay will be based on your work location and other factors, such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about the specific salary range for your preferred location, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process.

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