About this role
At Essity, we’re committed to Breaking Barriers to Well-Being. As a global leader in hygiene and health, we strive to improve lives every day. Join our team in Kawerau and play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and environmental sustainability in our Paper Machines division.
About the Role:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Production Support Leader (PSL) to oversee the Beaters and Water Treatment Plant (WTP) operations. Reporting to the Operations Manager – Paper Machines, you will lead a team of skilled Operators, ensuring the delivery of production, safety, quality, and cost objectives. This role is essential to maintaining efficient operations and supporting our commitment to continuous improvement and environmental responsibility.
What You Will Do:
- Lead and support the team to meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets.
- Manage the Beaters and WTP operations, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with environmental and quality standards.
- Facilitate control room meetings to address operational issues and implement solutions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan and execute maintenance and capacity shutdowns.
- Promote a culture of safety, ensuring adherence to health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Coach and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Ensure effective communication across shifts and with leadership.
- Support product development initiatives and maintain compliance with ISO standards.
- Provide after-hours support for operational and safety matters as required.
Who You Are:
You are a proactive and collaborative leader with a strong technical background and a passion for operational excellence. You value teamwork, continuous improvement, and creating a safe, inclusive workplace.
To be successful, you’ll bring:
- Experience in Water Treatment Plant operations.
- At least 3 years of experience in a high-volume, continuous production environment.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and communication skills.
- A solutions-focused mindset.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SAP.
- Knowledge of Pulp and Paper Technology or similar process expertise.
- NCEA certification or equivalent.
Desirable qualifications and experience:
- A trade qualification, diploma, or degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience in business planning, operational management, or ISO standards.
- Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental risk management.
What We Can Offer You:
Our purpose, Breaking Barriers to Well-Being, drives everything we do. Join us to improve well-being for people and contribute to positive change for society and the environment.
At Essity, you’ll be valued, supported in your growth, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
We offer:
- A supportive and inclusive workplace culture
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- Flexible working arrangements
- Competitive remuneration and benefits
- Fully funded RegularCare Southern Cross medical insurance, and income protection, permanent disability, and life insurance
- A chance to make a real impact in a global organisation
Ready for your next move? Apply now! Early applications encouraged.
Innovate for Good | Excel Together | Be You With Us
Application End Date:
27 Feb 2026Job Requisition ID:
Essity257580Other facts
About Essity
Essity - a globally leading hygiene and health company. Our expertise in hygiene and health began with the acquisition of the Swedish company Mölnlycke in 1975, through which our roots stretch back to 1849. Today, our sustainable innovations from globally trusted brands, designed for everybody and every body, care for the well-being of 1 billion people in 150 countries every day.
Working at Essity is not just a career but a chance to make the world healthier, safer, and more hygienic. Our barrier breakers innovate for good and contribute to shaping a sustainable future. At Essity, every career is as unique as the individual. We empower employees to excel together and reach their full potential in a winning culture motivated by a powerful purpose. We provide a sustainable work-life based on flexibility for both employees and employers. At Essity, we are committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in everything we do. It is the key to our success in creating an inclusive, collaborative, and caring company culture where you can be you with us. Our purpose of Breaking Barriers to Well-being, is to enable customers and consumers to lead fuller lives at all stages of life.
Our leading global brands TENA and Tork, and other strong brands such as Actimove, Cutimed, JOBST, Knix, Leukoplast, Libero, Libresse, Lotus, Modibodi, Nosotras, Saba, Tempo, TOM Organic and Zewa. In 2024, Essity had net sales of approximately SEK 146bn (EUR 13bn) and employed 36,000 people. The company’s headquarters is located in Stockholm, Sweden and Essity is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.If you want to join a company where dedication to people is powered by innovation, welcome to Essity!
What you'll do
- The Production Support Leader will lead and support the team to meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets while managing the Beaters and Water Treatment Plant operations to ensure optimal performance and compliance. This includes facilitating control room meetings, planning maintenance shutdowns, and promoting a strong culture of safety and continuous learning.
Ready to join Essity?
Take the next step in your career journey