Extensive Career Opportunities at Sonae Indústria Portugal: Join a Global Leader in Wood-Based Panel Manufacturing

Essential Job Information

Available Positions:	23 diverse career opportunities in manufacturing, maintenance, and technical operations
Company:	Sonae Indústria - A global leader in engineered wood products and wood-based panels since 1959
Working Hours:	Full-time positions with various shift patterns, including day, night, and weekend shifts
Location:	Various locations across Portugal, including Maia, Alcanede, Castelo de Paiva, Mangualde, Oliveira do Hospital, Sines, and Vilela
Contract Type:	Permanent positions with comprehensive benefits, training, and career development opportunities
Educational Requirements:	Technical or vocational training preferred; experience in industrial manufacturing is highly valued
Experience Level:	Positions available for entry-level candidates, apprentices, and experienced professionals
Language Requirements:	Proficiency in Portuguese is required; basic English skills are an advantage
Target Candidates:	Skilled technicians, machine operators, maintenance specialists, and industrial laborers
Application Email:	suporteiop@sonae.pt

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About Sonae Indústria

Sonae Indústria stands as a global benchmark in the engineered wood products industry, with a rich history of innovation and manufacturing excellence that began in 1959. Founded in Maia, Portugal, as the Sociedade Nacional de Estratificados (Sonae), the company has grown from a national leader in high-pressure decorative laminates into one of the world's largest and most respected manufacturers of wood-based panels. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, quality, and technological advancement, Sonae Indústria has established a formidable presence across five countries on three continents, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products that serve the furniture, construction, and interior design industries.

The company's journey began in the dynamic industrial landscape of post-war Europe, where the demand for modern, durable, and affordable materials was rapidly increasing. Sonae Indústria capitalized on this opportunity by pioneering the production of high-pressure laminates in Portugal, quickly earning a reputation for quality and reliability. During its first two decades, the company consolidated its position in the domestic market, focusing on the production of wood derivative products and building a strong foundation for future growth. This period of steady development allowed Sonae Indústria to refine its manufacturing processes, invest in new technologies, and cultivate a skilled workforce that would become the backbone of its international expansion.

The internationalization of Sonae Indústria began in earnest in the late 1980s and 1990s, with a series of strategic acquisitions and investments that transformed the company into a global player. In 1989, the company acquired Spanboard Products Ltd in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, marking its first major foray into the international market. This was followed by the acquisition of the German company Glunz AG in 1997, which had itself been a significant player in the European wood-based panel market. The acquisition of Isoroy SAS in France in 1998 further solidified Sonae Indústria's presence in key European markets, providing access to new customers and distribution channels.

The company's global expansion continued with its entry into the North American market in 1995 through its subsidiary, Tafisa Canada, located in Lac-Mégantic, Quebec. This state-of-the-art facility has become a leader in the production of particleboard and thermofused melamine panels, known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation. In 1998, Sonae Indústria made a significant investment in South Africa, building a new plant in Panbult and later acquiring Sappi Novobord in 2000, which included a facility in White River. These strategic moves allowed the company to establish a strong foothold in the African market and capitalize on the growing demand for wood-based panels in the region.

Today, Sonae Indústria's manufacturing footprint is a testament to its global reach and operational excellence. The company operates a network of advanced production facilities in Portugal, Spain, Germany, France, Canada, and South Africa. In Portugal, the company's headquarters in Maia is also home to its oldest active factory, a symbol of its enduring legacy and commitment to its Portuguese roots. In addition to the Maia facility, Sonae Indústria operates several other plants across the country, including in Alcanede, Castelo de Paiva, Mangualde, Oliveira do Hospital, Sines, and Vilela. These facilities are equipped with the latest manufacturing technologies and are staffed by a highly skilled workforce dedicated to producing the highest quality wood-based panels.

Sonae Indústria's product portfolio is as diverse as its global presence, offering a wide range of solutions for various applications. The company's core products include particleboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), oriented strand board (OSB), and decorative panels. These products are used in a variety of applications, from furniture and cabinetry to flooring, construction, and interior design. The company's commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous development of new products and solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers and the market.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Sonae Indústria's business philosophy. The company is deeply committed to responsible forest management and the use of sustainable raw materials. A significant portion of the wood used in its production processes comes from certified sources, and the company has implemented comprehensive environmental management systems at all of its facilities. Sonae Indústria is certified under a number of international standards, including ISO 14001 for Environmental Management, ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 45001 for Health and Safety Management, and ISO 50001 for Energy Management. These certifications are a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to operating in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

The company's dedication to sustainability is also reflected in its investment in recycling and waste reduction programs. Tafisa Canada, for example, has invested heavily in technologies that allow it to recycle millions of trees per year, reducing its reliance on virgin raw materials and minimizing its environmental footprint. Sonae Indústria is also committed to reducing its energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, with many of its facilities certified under the ISO 50001 standard for Energy Management. These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the company's long-term financial sustainability by reducing operational costs.

At Sonae Indústria, our employees are our most valuable asset. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy, and rewarding work environment where every employee has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We offer comprehensive training and development programs, competitive compensation and benefits packages, and opportunities for career advancement within our global network. We believe in fostering a culture of teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement, where every employee is empowered to contribute to the company's success.

Joining Sonae Indústria means becoming part of a global family of dedicated professionals who are passionate about what they do. We are looking for talented and motivated individuals who share our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting your career, we offer a wide range of opportunities to grow and develop your skills in a dynamic and challenging environment. We invite you to explore the exciting career opportunities available at our facilities in Portugal and to become part of a company that is shaping the future of the wood-based panel industry.

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Available Positions

1. Production Line Operator

Operate and monitor production machinery for wood-based panels, ensuring the continuous and efficient flow of the manufacturing process. Responsible for loading raw materials, overseeing machine settings, and performing basic quality checks on the finished products. This role requires a high level of attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a team environment to meet production targets.

2. Maintenance Technician

Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on all production equipment, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. Responsible for diagnosing and repairing faults, carrying out regular inspections, and ensuring that all machinery operates safely and efficiently. This position is crucial for minimizing downtime and maintaining the high-quality standards of our products.

3. Forklift Operator

Responsible for the safe and efficient movement of raw materials, finished products, and other materials throughout the facility. This role involves operating a forklift to load and unload trucks, stack and unstack materials, and supply the production lines with the necessary raw materials. A valid forklift operator license and a strong commitment to safety are essential for this position.

4. Quality Control Inspector

Conduct regular inspections and tests on raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products to ensure they meet the company's rigorous quality standards. This role involves using a variety of testing equipment, recording and analyzing data, and reporting any deviations from the required specifications. A keen eye for detail and a methodical approach are essential for this position.

5. Electrical Maintenance Technician

Specialize in the maintenance and repair of all electrical systems and equipment within the plant. This includes troubleshooting and repairing electrical faults, installing new electrical systems, and carrying out regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations. A strong understanding of industrial electrical systems and a commitment to safety are paramount.

6. Mechanical Maintenance Technician

Focus on the maintenance and repair of all mechanical systems and equipment, including conveyors, presses, and cutting machinery. This role involves diagnosing and repairing mechanical faults, carrying out regular inspections, and performing preventive maintenance to ensure the longevity and reliability of the equipment. A strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills are required.

7. Wood Chipper Operator

Operate and maintain the wood chipping machinery, which is responsible for processing raw wood into the chips used in the production of our panels. This role involves feeding wood into the chipper, monitoring the quality and size of the chips, and performing routine maintenance on the equipment. A strong focus on safety and efficiency is essential.

8. Press Operator

Operate the large industrial presses that are used to form the wood-based panels. This role involves loading the raw materials into the press, monitoring the pressure and temperature settings, and ensuring that the finished panels meet the required specifications. This is a key role in the production process that requires a high level of precision and attention to detail.

9. Sanding Machine Operator

Operate the sanding machinery that is used to give our panels a smooth and uniform finish. This role involves feeding the panels into the sanding machine, adjusting the settings to achieve the desired finish, and performing regular quality checks on the finished products. A keen eye for detail and a commitment to quality are essential for this position.

10. Lamination Line Operator

Operate the lamination line, where decorative papers are applied to the surface of the panels. This role involves setting up the lamination press, monitoring the application process, and ensuring that the finished panels have a flawless and durable surface. This position requires a high level of precision and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

11. Warehouse Assistant

Assist with the day-to-day operations of the warehouse, including receiving and storing raw materials, picking and packing finished products, and maintaining accurate inventory records. This role requires good organizational skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team to ensure the smooth flow of materials in and out of the facility.

12. General Laborer

Perform a variety of manual tasks throughout the plant, including cleaning, sorting, and assisting with the production process as needed. This is a versatile role that requires a good level of physical fitness and a willingness to learn new skills. A strong work ethic and a commitment to safety are essential.

13. Boiler Operator

Operate and maintain the industrial boilers that provide steam and heat for the production process. This role involves monitoring the boiler's performance, carrying out regular inspections, and ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental regulations. A certified boiler operator license is required for this position.

14. Welder

Perform welding repairs and fabrication work on production machinery and other equipment throughout the plant. This role requires a high level of skill in various welding techniques and the ability to work with a variety of metals. A certified welder qualification and a strong commitment to safety are essential.

15. Industrial Cleaner

Responsible for maintaining a clean and safe work environment throughout the plant. This role involves using industrial cleaning equipment to clean floors, machinery, and other surfaces, as well as collecting and disposing of waste materials. A thorough and methodical approach is required to ensure that the plant meets the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

16. Sawmill Operator

Operate the sawmill equipment that is used to cut raw logs into the required sizes for processing. This role involves feeding logs into the sawmill, monitoring the cutting process, and ensuring that the finished lumber meets the required specifications. A strong focus on safety and efficiency is essential for this position.

17. Resin Plant Operator

Operate and monitor the equipment in the resin plant, where the resins used to bind the wood fibers together are produced. This role involves mixing and processing chemicals, monitoring the quality of the resin, and ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental regulations. A strong understanding of chemical processes and a commitment to safety are required.

18. Finishing Line Inspector

Conduct final inspections on all finished products before they are packaged and shipped to customers. This role involves checking for any defects in the surface finish, dimensions, and overall quality of the panels. A keen eye for detail and a commitment to ensuring that only the highest quality products leave the factory are essential.

19. Packaging Operator

Operate the packaging machinery that is used to wrap and label the finished products for shipment. This role involves setting up the packaging line, monitoring the packaging process, and ensuring that all products are packaged securely and correctly. A high level of attention to detail is required to ensure that our products reach our customers in perfect condition.

20. Automation Technician

Maintain and troubleshoot the automated systems that control the production process. This role involves working with PLCs, robotics, and other automation technologies to ensure that the plant operates efficiently and reliably. A strong background in industrial automation and a passion for technology are required.

21. Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Assistant

Assist the EHS Manager in implementing and monitoring the company's health, safety, and environmental programs. This role involves conducting safety inspections, investigating incidents, and providing training to employees on EHS procedures. A commitment to promoting a safe and healthy work environment is essential.

22. Lubrication Technician

Responsible for the lubrication of all machinery and equipment throughout the plant. This role involves following a regular lubrication schedule, using the correct lubricants for each application, and maintaining accurate records of all lubrication activities. This is a critical role for ensuring the longevity and reliability of our production equipment.

23. Utility Worker

Perform a variety of tasks to support the overall operation of the plant, including assisting with maintenance, cleaning, and other general duties as required. This is a flexible role that requires a willingness to learn new skills and a strong work ethic. A commitment to teamwork and safety is essential.

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Employee Benefits and Development

Sonae Indústria is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive benefits package that supports their personal and professional well-being. We understand that our success depends on the satisfaction and engagement of our workforce, and we have developed a range of programs and initiatives designed to attract, retain, and develop the best talent in the industry. Our benefits package includes competitive salaries, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plans, and paid time off for vacation and personal needs. We also offer flexible working arrangements where possible, recognizing the importance of work-life balance in maintaining a motivated and productive workforce.

Professional development is a cornerstone of our human resources strategy at Sonae Indústria. We provide extensive training programs for all employees, from entry-level positions to senior management roles. Our training programs cover technical skills, safety procedures, quality management, environmental awareness, and leadership development. We believe in promoting from within and offer clear career progression paths for employees who demonstrate commitment, competence, and leadership potential. Many of our current managers and supervisors began their careers in entry-level positions and have advanced through our organization with the support of our comprehensive development programs.

Safety is our top priority at Sonae Indústria, and we have implemented comprehensive health and safety programs across all of our facilities. We provide extensive safety training to all employees, maintain rigorous safety standards, and continuously monitor and improve our safety performance. Our commitment to safety extends beyond compliance with regulations to creating a culture where every employee takes personal responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their colleagues. We regularly conduct safety audits, investigate incidents thoroughly, and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence.

Innovation and Technology

Sonae Indústria is at the forefront of technological innovation in the wood-based panel industry. We continuously invest in research and development to improve our products, processes, and environmental performance. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are equipped with the latest technology, including advanced automation systems, computerized process controls, and sophisticated quality monitoring equipment. We are committed to staying ahead of industry trends and customer demands by developing new products and improving existing ones through continuous innovation and technological advancement.

Our investment in technology extends to our commitment to Industry 4.0 principles, incorporating digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into our manufacturing processes. We are implementing smart manufacturing systems that optimize production efficiency, reduce waste, minimize energy consumption, and improve product quality. These technological advances not only benefit our business performance but also create exciting opportunities for our employees to work with cutting-edge technology and develop new skills in digital manufacturing and automation.

Why Choose Sonae Indústria?

A career at Sonae Indústria is an opportunity to be part of a global industry leader with a profound commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality. We provide a dynamic and challenging work environment where our employees can develop their skills, grow their careers, and make a tangible impact on the future of the wood-based panel industry. Our corporate culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and teamwork, and we are dedicated to fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued and empowered. We invest heavily in our employees through comprehensive training programs, competitive compensation packages, and opportunities for professional advancement within our extensive global network.

At Sonae Indústria, you will be working with cutting-edge technology in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We are passionate about continuous improvement and are constantly seeking new ways to enhance our processes, products, and services. Our commitment to sustainability is not just a corporate responsibility; it is an integral part of our business strategy. By joining our team, you will contribute to the development of environmentally friendly products that are shaping the future of construction and design. We are proud of our Portuguese heritage and our global reach, and we offer a unique opportunity to be part of a company that is both deeply rooted in its local communities and a major player on the world stage.

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Application Process

To apply for any of the positions listed above, please submit your resume and a cover letter to our human resources department at suporteiop@sonae.pt. Please ensure that you specify the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email. We carefully review all applications and will contact qualified candidates to schedule an interview. Sonae Indústria is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals who are eager to contribute to our success and grow with us.