Find The RightJob.

Lead Scientist, R&D

The Lead Innovation Research Scientist will play a critical role in advancing new product development and application development initiatives within Smurfit WestRock’s Corrugated Packaging innovation team. This role is focused on solving technical challenges through hands-on experimentation, material development, and performance validation. The ideal candidate will bring a strong engineering background, with specific experience in coatings, substrates, and corrugated packaging performance. They will focus on transitioning ideas into feasible and viable packaging solutions, balancing customer needs, performance, cost, and sustainability.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:

Drive the development and optimization of new corrugated packaging solutions, from concept through validation
Conduct lab-scale and pilot testing of coatings, substrates, and packaging structures to meet customer requirements
Lead the evaluation of performance characteristics (moisture resistance, strength, printability, etc.) under varied environmental and manufacturing conditions
Collaborate cross-functionally with design, operations, and commercialization teams to ensure product scalability and manufacturability
Contribute to the creation of technical documentation, specifications, and design of experiments (DoE)
Analyze test results, identify trends, and make technical recommendations to guide development decisions
Monitor emerging technologies, materials, and suppliers to inform R&D pipeline and coatings strategies
Facilitate customer trials, technical troubleshooting, and plant engagement during product scale-up and implementation

What you need to succeed:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Packaging Science, or a related engineering discipline
7+ years of experience in packaging R&D, preferably with a focus on coatings and corrugated material
Hands-on experience with lab testing protocols and physical property evaluation of paper and board
Knowledge of paper chemistry, barrier technologies, surface treatments, and packaging converting processes
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a passion for hands-on experimentation
Effective communication and collaboration skills across technical and commercial functions
Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced environment
Travel percentage: approximately 50%

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

Similar jobs