Innovation Lab Manager

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 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:

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• 10+ years in a lab or testing environment within the packaging or paper industry; corrugated packaging experience preferred
• Experience managing technical staff and overseeing lab operations
• Familiarity with TAPPI and ISTA testing standards for corrugated packaging
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills
• Ability to translate test results into insights for technical and commercial teams
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic R&D environment

What We Offer

• A corporate culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence
• A competitive salary and bonus structure that reflects skills, competencies and potential
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities
• Career growth within a global packaging leader where safety, quality, sustainability and people are fundamental to daily operations