Corrugator Lead

Corrugator Lead

The Corrugator Lead directs the day-to-day operation of the corrugator line wet end and dry end on an assigned shift, ensuring the crew runs safely, meets production and quality targets, and responds effectively to downtime. This role acts as the shift-level point of accountability for the corrugator crew, coordinating between CR Operator, Single Facer, Double Backer, Stacker, Clamp Truck Driver, and Baler Operator positions, while escalating equipment, staffing, or quality issues to the Corrugator Superintendent as needed. The Corrugator Lead works hands-on alongside the crew and is expected to step into any corrugator position to keep the line running.

The Shift Lead works in close partnership with the Shift Supervisor to support the safe, efficient, and productive operation of the assigned shift. This role provides leadership, guidance, and operational support to team members while serving as a key resource in day-to-day decision-making. Although the Shift Supervisor retains final authority for operational decisions, employee matters, and shift-related issues, the Shift Lead is expected to provide valuable input and recommendations that are considered in the decision-making process.

In the absence of the Shift Supervisor, including during vacations or other periods when the Supervisor is not actively present on the production floor, the Shift Lead assumes responsibility for directing shift operations. This includes ensuring production goals, quality standards, safety expectations, and operational objectives established by the Supervisor and Superintendent are achieved while maintaining efficient workflow and addressing issues as they arise.

Compensation:

The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. At ND Paper, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.

Key Responsibilities & Expected Results

Demonstrate safety as a core value and establish a safe work environment by actively leading the safe execution of work.

• Lead the corrugator crew through the daily production schedule, sequencing orders to minimize changeover and waste.
• Coordinate wet end (CR Operator, Single Facer, Double Backer) and dry end (Stacker, Clamp Truck Driver, Baler) crew members to keep the line running at target speed.
• Run the pre-shift and shift-change huddle, communicating the job schedule, known issues, and safety priorities.
• Monitor board quality (warp, bond, moisture, caliper) throughout the run and direct corrective action at the first sign of drift.
• Make real-time decisions on order sequencing, crew assignment, and break coverage to protect uptime.

Downtime & Troubleshooting

• Serve as first point of response for line stoppages; diagnose the cause and either resolve it or escalate to Maintenance.
• Log downtime events and micro-stops accurately, using correct reason codes for reporting.
• Partner with Maintenance during changeovers, repairs, and PM windows to minimize lost run time.

Quality & Compliance

• Verify board specifications against the order ticket at job start and at intervals through the run.
• Hold the crew accountable to standard work, changeover procedures, and end-of-shift checkout requirements.
• Ensure scrap is correctly identified, coded, and recorded.

People & Safety Leadership

• Model and enforce safety procedures, PPE requirements, and lockout/tagout on the corrugator line.
• Provide on-the-job training and coaching to crew members, including onboarding new hires through their training plan.
• Give the Corrugator Superintendent input on crew performance, attendance, and development.
• Maintain a professional, team-first tone on the floor and address conduct or performance concerns promptly.

Reporting & Communication

• Complete production reports, downtime logs, and shift handoff notes accurately and on time.
• Communicate schedule changes, quality holds, and safety concerns to the incoming shift and to leadership.

Qualifications and Skills