Fiberline & Power Shift Supervisor (Escanaba, MI)

Job description

At Billerud we believe that when we have tomorrow in mind, we will do our very best today. It is thanks to our employees that we are a world-leading company within the field of renewable paper and packaging materials. Do you want to realize your true value and work for a sustainable tomorrow? Join us!

Purpose:

Are you interested in being part of an innovative team that supports Billerud’s mission to lead the way when it comes to challenging conventional packaging and business? Our decisions are guided by the promise of creating a better tomorrow. Building a future where lighter, stronger, more durable and sustainable packaging is the natural choice not only requires experience and expertise, but also takes dedication, teamwork and perseverance. This is a journey that we are making together with our talented staff and our customers.

Job Summary

The Operations Supervisor is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the Fiberline Department at the Escanaba Mill. This role provides frontline leadership to hourly crews, supports consistent production across Fiberline, Recovery, and Utility operations, and develops teams into high‑performing, self‑sufficient groups. The position drives safety, productivity, quality, and engagement while supporting ongoing process improvements.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily operations in the Fiberline Area, including Woodyard, Kraft Mill, Pulp Make Down, Lime Kiln, and RMP Mill.
• Oversee Recovery and Utility operations including recovery boilers, power boilers, turbines, steam distribution, and wastewater treatment.
• Lead shift operations, ensuring safety, quality, and productivity across all processes.
• Guide and support operating crews on rotating shifts.
• Monitor and coordinate operations to optimize efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Partner with crews to schedule shift maintenance with minimal operational impact.
• Communicate business goals and expectations to hourly teams and reinforce their role in achieving results.
• Develop technical skills and team effectiveness across the workforce.
• Promote flexibility and collaboration between operations and maintenance teams.
• Provide on‑shift training in problem solving and decision making.
• Improve training materials and processes as needed.
• Establish clear expectations for safety, environmental compliance, quality, and productivity.
• Enforce safety procedures and hold team members accountable.
• Lead Process Variability Reduction (PVR) and support Operator Driven Reliability (ODR).
• Administer labor agreements, policies, and work rules.
• Act as Operations Maintenance Coordinator during off‑shifts.
• Drive team engagement and support cultural improvements.
• Ensure solids losses to sewer are minimized.
• Forecast and manage species grade changes in the digesting process.

Personal qualities

Minimum Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Pulp Paper Science or related field; or 5 or more years of hands-on experience working in a paper mill environment.
• 3 - 5 years Supervisor experience.

Required Skills

• Strong communication, organizational, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective leadership and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced, changing environment.
• Capability to navigate mill environments, including ladders, stairs, and temperature extremes.
• Strong mechanical, chemical process, and computer aptitude.
• Ability to make sound decisions.
• Ability to work 12‑hour rotating shifts (DuPont schedule).

Application information

Billerud NA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.

Why us?

At Billerud, you’ll be part of a collaborative, forward thinking team dedicated to shaping a more sustainable future. We’re committed to supporting your growth, well being, and long term success.

• Impactful Work – Contribute to meaningful sustainability initiatives.
• Career Growth – Access development programs and internal advancement opportunities.
• Education Support – Tuition reimbursement + certificate programs through partner schools.
• Competitive Compensation – Performance based bonus eligibility (role dependent).
• Comprehensive Benefits –
  • Multiple medical plans with virtual care options
  • Generous 401(k) offerings
  • HSA contribution match + additional preventive exam contribution
  • Dental & vision coverage
  • Company paid disability insurance
  • Prescription benefits

Our recruitment process may include interviews, recruitment test, reference checks, and alcohol & drug testing.