What are the responsibilities and job description for the Structural Designer position at DS Smith?
The main purpose of this position is to create manufacturing layouts for all NAPP plants using approved CAD specifications from the supporting design departments within the Design group. This position requires strong communication with internal customers including operations, production, customer service as well as sales and commercial teams. DS Smith processes and tools must be used to verify material selection.
Using the DS Smith PackRight Tools and the DS Smith design processes, this designer will focus on developing performance-based packaging solutions through DS Smith processes and validation methods used in the industry and as specified by DS Smith. Understanding paper and board mechanics as well as understanding testing protocols and test results is required. Being able to identify value-added opportunities in projects and being able to successfully present them to account managers for development will also be expected. Additionally, this person may work with specialty corrugated materials such as Greencoat®, insulation packaging and other innovations in fiber-based material.
Key Accountabilities
• Meet or exceed KPI of On Time Projects
• Meet or exceed KPI of Value-Added Projects
• Meet or exceed KPI of 100% Efficiency
Optimizing designs and material for corrugator trim prior to customer review and approvals will help with plant efficiencies and savings
Design processes and tools used to validate and quantify solutions which add value to our customers
Designing for Circular Economy Principles and the DS Smith Value Proposition are supported
Education & Certifications:
• Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Experience in Packaging Design
• Technical School Certification
Technical Requirements
• Understanding of the corrugated board making and converting processes • Understanding of supply cycles, box mechanics, performance specification, and predictive tools • Able to read and understand technical specification documents for converting equipment throughout the plants in network
• Able to understand test results and protocols – being able to conduct and report testing protocols is a bonus
• Able to create pallet patterns to assist with pallet load analysis
• Able to lift 40lbs
Experience, Skills and Behaviors
Design oriented, business minded – ability to drive customer requests to value-added solutions to optimize production output with trim and waste minimized for optimum efficiency and profitability. Is well-organized and is able to manage multiple projects/initiatives and collaborate internally to achieve success. Strong technical thinker who can visualize through manufacturing processes to determine best solution. Outstanding communications both written and oral, with the ability to react with precision.
