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# Design Accelerator Program, 2027

- **Company:** Smurfit Westrock
- **Location:** Carol Stream, IL, United States
- **Contract:** Internship / Graduate position
- **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Adobe Creative Cloud
- **Published:** October 2, 2026
- **Apply:** https://dejobs.org/x/x/593C80DD03BF49A1AD37E0B575E8C4C4/job/

## About the Role

* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
 * Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
 * Ability to communicate effectively with customers, business partners, and technical teams.
 * Strong organizational and time management skills.
 * Ability to learn quickly and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
 * Ability to work independently and collaboratively on cross-functional teams.
 * Willingness to travel and relocate during rotational assignments as business needs require.
 * Customer-focused mindset with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
 * Initiative, accountability, and a desire to build a career in packaging design and leadership., * Bachelor's degree in Packaging Design, Packaging Science, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
 * Internship, co-op, research, or project experience in packaging, manufacturing, product development, engineering, or related fields.
 * Familiarity with CAD software, packaging design tools, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar programs.
 * Exposure to manufacturing environments or customer-facing projects.
 * Experience leading team projects, student organizations, athletics, volunteer initiatives, or other leadership activities.
 * Interest in packaging innovation, sustainability, and customer engagement.

## Description

As a participant in the Design Accelerator Program (DAP), you will gain hands-on experience across Design, Manufacturing, Operations, Sales, and Customer Engagement while helping deliver innovative packaging solutions for our customers.

How You Will Impact Smurfit Westrock

 * Support packaging design projects from concept through production.
 * Develop prototypes, mockups, specifications, and production-ready solutions.
 * Learn how packaging designs are manufactured and implemented in real-world operations.
 * Collaborate with customers and cross-functional teams to solve business challenges.
 * Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and innovation projects.
 * Present ideas, recommendations, and project updates to business leaders and customers.
 * Build knowledge of corrugated packaging, sustainability, manufacturing processes, and packaging innovation.
 * Demonstrate leadership, initiative, and accountability through rotational assignments and special projects.
 * Participate in professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities designed to accelerate your career.