The opportunity:

The R&D Technician reports to the R&D Manager and performs a variety of lab testing, formulation making, sample preparation, and supports pilot coater and scale-up trials. In this role, you will help with work in support of innovation and customer projects relating to the strategic plan of WestRock business. This job is M-F, normal dayshift hours, with very rare exceptions. This role does not require a college degree. We're looking for someone who wants to learn the business, grow, and advance with the organization. If you've worked in a manufacturing environment and have basic computer skills with the ability and desire to learn Excel. This is a great job for someone early career.

Safety is paramount to WestRock and a focus on safe work practices will be required. You will be expected to report safety concerns to management for continuous improvement.

How you will impact WestRock:

• Perform qualitative and quantitative lab testing.

• Prepare coating formulations and samples following SOP’s.

• Support pilot coater trials

• Learn and develop new test methods to support R&D projects.

• Analyze data and present results to project team.

What you need to succeed:

• High School Degree required; Associate's degree and/or training in chemistry, materials science, paper, polymer, or packaging fields would be helpful. Post-high school training in any mechanical trade involving troubleshooting would be beneficial too.

• Technical / mechanical aptitude, strong work ethic, and deep curiosity are required.

• 0-2+ years' experience.

• Lab testing and/or coating formulation experience preferred.

• Knowledge of chemistry, polymer and/or paper preferred.

• Paper and packaging industry experience preferred.

• Ability to function independently with a high degree of initiative.

• Strong teamwork skills, including ability to contribute to cross functional teams.

• Strong communication skills, verbal and written.

• Ability to contribute in a lab, pilot plant, and production environment.

• Basic computer skills to include proficiency with Microsoft 365 or Office. Basic proficiency with MS Excel is required.

• Ability to lift and carry samples routinely weighing 50 pounds.

• Ability to travel < 10%

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.

• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

WestRock (NYSE:WRK) partners with our customers to provide differentiated paper and packaging solutions that help them win in the marketplace. WestRock's team members support customers around the world from locations spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Learn more at www.westrock.com.

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.