Team Leader - Key Projects

Sonoco • Hartsville, SC

12h • Onsite

About The Position

Sonoco is a global leader in packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. This position is within the high-impact technology team dedicated to transforming industrial paper converting products and processes. The role involves leading and overseeing a technology team to ensure successful project execution, adherence to timelines, and achievement of technical excellence. The team focuses on product and process developments, product design optimizations, material optimizations, and supporting global industrial paper converting businesses to maintain technology leadership. Collaboration with Global Technology & Engineering, Sales, Operations, Quality, and Marketing is key, with a focus on driving cost and complexity out of products. Projects are managed from inception to commercialization, offering growth and variety.

Requirements

• BS, MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (or a related technical field).
• Around 10 years of professional experience.
• Some experience in people management.
• Proven track record in project management.
• Knowledge of the paper industry is a bonus.
• Passion for innovation is essential.
• Thrive in a team setting and enjoy an environment that rewards creative problem-solving and meaningful innovation.

Nice To Haves

• PMP, PMI, or PPM certifications are a significant plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the technology team, ensuring successful execution of projects, adherence to timelines, and achievement of technical excellence.
• Lead various types of technical initiatives, collaborating closely with others in Global Technology & Engineering as well as cross-functional partners in Sales, Operations, Quality, and Marketing.
• Drive innovation and product development by collaborating with experts to design, test, and refine products and processes.
• Be hands-on in R&D facilities, working alongside technicians to bring concepts to life through prototyping and experimentation.
• Identify and pitch new opportunities for growth, material & product design optimization, and breakthrough productivity initiatives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Oversee the engineering budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effective solutions.
• Use tools like Python, Minitab, and Excel to perform deep-dive analytics, make informed technical decisions, and identify productivity opportunities.
• Identify projects aimed at making the company more competitive on product designs, materials, or manufacturing processes.
• Manage project timelines from conception to commercialization using Planner and other modern project management tools.
• Provide clear, data-driven updates on project status, milestones, and strategic alignment to leadership.
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, Sales, Quality, and Marketing to identify opportunities and needs, and ensure technical solutions meet real-world market needs.
• Develop a deep understanding of materials and products to fuel innovation.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
• Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
• Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior