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- Tasks: Lead technical expertise in paper manufacturing and optimise mill performance.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on sustainability and innovation in the paper industry.
- Benefits: Remote work, competitive rate, and opportunities for travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the paper industry while driving sustainability and efficiency.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in pulp & paper manufacturing with a relevant engineering degree.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
Remote work from the UK with availability to travel as per client request. Rate negotiable. Initial 4-month contract.
Role Overview: The Paper Domain SME will serve as the technical authority for all paper manufacturing, pulp processing, and mill optimization activities. The role demands deep industry knowledge, process expertise, and a strong ability to guide cross-functional teams in achieving excellence in quality, productivity, energy efficiency, and sustainability. You will act as the bridge between operations, process engineering, digital transformation, and R&D, helping to improve mill performance, reduce costs, and drive continuous improvement across all production units.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide technical leadership and domain expertise for paper and pulp processes — from pulping, bleaching, and refining to papermaking, coating, and finishing.
- Analyse mill data to identify bottlenecks, quality issues, and process deviations; implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Lead process optimization and energy efficiency programs, focusing on reducing raw material waste, steam/electricity consumption, and downtime.
- Standardize operating parameters, best practices, and KPIs across mills for consistent product quality and yield.
- Collaborate with R&D and product teams for new grade development (e.g., kraft paper, duplex board, fluting, testliner, specialty papers).
- Support capital projects — including feasibility studies, machine upgrades, and process redesigns.
- Train, mentor, and develop the technical capability of engineers and operators in paper mill operations.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety standards.
- Work closely with digital transformation teams to implement data-driven decision systems and predictive maintenance solutions.
- Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) for chronic production and quality issues.
- Benchmark mill performance against industry standards and recommend continuous improvement initiatives.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
- B.E./B.Tech. / M.Tech. in Paper Technology, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical/Process Engineering.
- 15+ years of experience in pulp & paper manufacturing (preferably integrated mills).
- Strong understanding of:
- Fiber line operations (pulping, bleaching, washing)
- Paper machine operations (forming, pressing, drying, coating)
- Quality parameters (basis weight, moisture, strength, brightness)
- Chemical dosing and process control systems
Paper & Pulp SME employer: Absolute Applications
Contact Detail:
Absolute Applications Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Paper & Pulp SME
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Paper & Pulp SME role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and industry trends. We recommend practising common interview questions related to pulp processing and mill optimisation. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you’ve tackled quality issues or optimised processes in the past. We want to see your analytical side shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Paper & Pulp SME position!
We think you need these skills to ace Paper & Pulp SME
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Paper & Pulp SME role. Highlight your relevant experience in paper manufacturing and any specific projects that showcase your expertise in process optimisation and energy efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your technical leadership experience and how you can bridge operations with R&D to drive continuous improvement.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you've improved mill performance or reduced costs in previous roles. Numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Absolute Applications
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to paper manufacturing and pulp processing. Be ready to discuss specific processes like pulping, bleaching, and refining, as well as how you've optimised these in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled bottlenecks or quality issues in previous positions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly outline your thought process and the impact of your solutions.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the company's goals around sustainability and energy efficiency. Be prepared to discuss how your expertise can help them achieve these objectives, especially in terms of reducing waste and improving mill performance.
✨Be a Team Player
Since this role involves collaboration across various teams, think of examples where you've successfully worked with cross-functional groups. Highlight your communication skills and how you've mentored others in the past to enhance team performance.
