Principal Engineer

What You Will Do

The Principal Engineer serves as the primary subject matter expert in paperboard production across a diverse portfolio of paperboard production machines capable of producing the full spectrum of products. This role is responsible for leading in collaboration with the plant managers and paper machine teams, the development and deployment of production asset reliability strategy integrating technical support, product development, quality systems and predictive maintenance programs with a focus on improving productivity and operating efficiencies.

As one of the technical leaders, the Principal Engineer will be called up to lead short & long-term process improvement and capital projects ranging from machine management to environmental and safety programs. This role is will also be responsible for collaborating with the plants to assist with operations, outages, maintenance, technical analysis, safety, and engineering & operations capability development.

Technical and Operational Consultation

• Serves as principle internal subject matter expert to support in identifying and resolving paper machine operations and process related opportunities, leveraging lean manufacturing tools, root cause analysis, and other troubleshooting methodologies
• Research, identify and develop projects and process improvement areas to support improvement in paper board production & product development
• Collaborate across the company to gain alignment as a subject matter expert
• Develop & execution project plans supporting the 5+year strategy for paper machines
• Serve as principle contact to outside contractors and service providers, providing leadership and direction delivering projects and services within budget and time constraints

Continuous Improvement Champion

• A culture of continuous improvement
• Identify opportunities to improve overall performance through development and deployment of maintenance standards; process engineering, machine design/layout
• Support product quality systems and process documentation throughout manufacturing footprint delivering consistent products with a commitment to meeting and exceeding customer expectations as a preferred SBS board supplier
• Leverage engineering technical expertise through collaboration with sales & marketing to identify market opportunities by providing technical insights into asset capabilities
• Communicate identified best practices and ensure long term application across the network
• Organizes and manages chemical and clothing vendor agreements in conjunction with procurement and manufacturing

Engineering and Production Capability Building

• Foster an operating environment that encourages employee engagement through demonstration and modelling of Clearwater Paper’s Core Values
• Drive a culture of technical collaboration throughout Paper Machine Superintendents, Supervisors, & Process Engineers
• Enable technical and quality sustainment plan by promoting developing and transferring knowledge across departments

What You Will Need

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of progressive responsibility in paper machine production - process engineering and manufacturing
• 5+ years budgetary responsibilities (Project or Operating Budget)
• Experience in paper industry required
• Experience in both manufacturing, commercial (sales) or vendor management required
• Certifications in Project Management, TPM or Continuous Improvement (Six Sigma Green Belt/Blackbelt) desired but not required
• Certified Project Management (PMP) and change management methodologies preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing personal development through continuing education, coaching, and developing others
• Highly adept performing at a fast pace communicating and collaborating across multiple stakeholders
• Confident and proficient in navigating in an automated environment with proficiency in MS Office Suite, multiple business intelligence databases
• High speed manufacturing environment, sustained exposure to high frequency noises, multiple hours standing, walking on concrete surfaces environment
• Personal Protective Equipment required in mill environment
• Dirt, noise, odor, & temperature extremes
• Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding
• Exposure to hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing process
• Travel approximately 10-20% of the time

Total Rewards Details

We prioritize an exceptional workplace experience, offering a comprehensive total reward package. This position is eligible for our Incentive Plan. Compensation ranges are estimates based on market data. Actual offers account for internal equity and candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, and geographic location. Benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and more, generally begin after 30 days. Our paid time off will include vacation days, personal days, and company holidays. For more on our compensation philosophy, please reach out to our Talent Acquisition Team at Talent.Acquisition@clearwaterpaper.com.