Technical & Operational Excellence Lead-Containerboard

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!

Summary Description: 
The Technical & Operational Excellence Lead – Containerboard is a customer-facing strategic and highly technical role responsible for driving performance, quality, and innovation across Billerud North America’s containerboard product line. As the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in corrugated packaging, this individual will work closely with box plants, internal stakeholders, and existing and prospective customers to ensure optimal product performance and support business growth. 
 
This role bridges product performance in corrugated packaging with  he technical grade design and specifications, driving an improved rate of commercialization for Billerud North America.  This success will be achieved through routine attendance at customer trials, provision of troubleshooting expertise to improve corrugator and converting runnability and efficiency, and delivery of customer feedback to Billerud technical and marketing resources to continuously improve product design and offerings. 
 
 

Qualifications

Key Accountabilities:

• Serve as the SME for corrugated packaging, providing deep technical knowledge and strategic guidance to internal teams and customers.
• Lead operational excellence initiatives at customer box plants to improve product performance, quality, and efficiency.
• Coordinate and oversee product trials, ensuring alignment with business development goals and customer expectations.
• Act as the primary technical liaison between box plants, sales, and Billerud’s manufacturing, product development, and marketing teams.
• Analyze performance data and customer feedback to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and recommend improvements.
• Support the commercial sales team with technical insights that enhance customer relationships and drive business growth.
• Support the commercial sales team with technical support on joint sales calls to existing and prospective customers.
• Monitor competitive activity and industry trends to inform product positioning and innovation strategies.
• Deliver training and technical education to customers and internal teams on corrugated manufacturing, converting, and performance attributes.
• Develop and implement technical standards and best practices for containerboard use across customer operations.
• Collaborate with product development teams to influence future containerboard innovations based on field insights and customer needs.
• Champion best practices in box plant corrugating, and converting, and operations support processes.
• Promote continuous improvement through data-driven analysis and cross-functional collaboration.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing across mills and customer sites to elevate technical capabilities and product consistency.
• Support sustainability and regulatory compliance initiatives through technical leadership.

Personal qualities

Required Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Paper Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in the containerboard or corrugated packaging industry, with a strong background in technical service, operations, or quality.
• Proven track record of leading technical initiatives and delivering measurable improvements in product performance and customer satisfaction.
• Strong understanding of box plant operations and end-use requirements.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites and manufacturing locations as needed.
   

Required skills:

• Experience in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Established relationships within the corrugated packaging industry.
• Experience as a technical trainer or operational coach.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively interact with all levels of the customer, from floor operators to general managers.

Application information

Billerud NA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified
applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to
race, color, religion, 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.