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.

Position: Production Planning Specialist

Job Code: MOPPP2 + Specialist, Production Plng

Location: Cottonton, AL

 

The Opportunity: 

Hands-on, operationally focused role responsible for sourcing and procuring materials to support mill operations, and direct support of maintenance and reliability teams. The position requires a strong understanding of plant processes, equipment, and material usage including general plant maintenance and plays a key role in ensuring the timely delivery of critical parts that keep the mill operational.

This role works closely with maintenance personnel, planners, storeroom staff, external suppliers, and the corporate procurement team to maintain an uninterrupted, cost-effective, and compliant supply chain.

How You Will Impact Smurfit WestRock:

Execution and compliance of procurement process for optimal sourcing decisions.Act as the primary point of contact for supplier issues, resolving challenges in supply, logistics and payment ensuring uninterrupted mill operations.Identify and implement process improvements to enhance supplier performance, cost-efficiency, and value delivery.Manage the full procurement cycle by processing purchase requisitions and orders for goods and services; evaluating needs and taking proactive action when needed.Ensure alignment with corporate procurement guidelines through close coordination with internal and external stakeholders.Provide clear, data-driven reports to mill leadership to support decision-making around spending, performance, supplier options and inventory management.Participate in internal procurement and financial audits, coordinate external supplier assessments as needed, and support external department auditsPartner with maintenance, planning, and storeroom teams to align procurement actions with work schedules and equipment needs.

Key Responsibilities

Evaluate supplier proposals for cost savings, making strategic sourcing decisions for reliability.Negotiate with sourced vendors ensuring greatest savings and material delivery potential.Serve as the escalation point for vendor issues managing dispute resolutions including delivery failures, pricing errors, and part availability concerns.Monitor supplier performance and proactively respond to disruptions.Lead continuous improvement initiatives to drive value beyond cost savings.Process purchase requisitions and purchase orders accurately and efficiently.Follow-up on outstanding orders, expedite critical deliveries, and coordinate with planners and maintenance to adjust as neededCoordinate with internal/external customers to ensure adherence to procurement policies.Perform daily inventory management task including cycle count, inventory adjustments, returns and repair management ensuring stock accuracy and reliability.Minimize excess inventory and support the removal of obsolete materials from the storeroom inventory.Communicate errors and discrepancies with effected parties while offering solutions for successful resolutions.Ensure inventory levels are reviewed regularly for both cost saving, continued mill reliability with an emphasis on material management, overstock control and minimizing wasteMaintain a strong understanding of mill equipment and frequently used parts for accurate sourcing and identification.

What you need to succeed:

Bachelor’s degree preferred; 3–5 years of procurement related experience, 3-5 years maintenance experience.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Demonstrated negotiation skills with keen attention to detail.Knowledge of parts and materials commonly used in industrial maintenance and procurement, with the ability to identify components and understand their functions.Solid understanding of maintenance operations, material flow, and utilization practices.Proven ability to read and interpret part descriptions, equipment manuals, and supplier quotes.Ability to balance priorities in a fast-paced, uptime-critical environment.Experience working with cross-functional teams to execute procurement-related projects.Strong analytical thinking and planning capabilities.Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), SAP and JDE.Self-motivated and proactive, with a strong ability to independently solve problems

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. Benefits package to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k with match, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, employee referral bonus, and much more! A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work. 

 

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.