2027 Management Trainee Program

About the Program

Butterball's 12-month rotational Management Trainee Program offers recent graduates the chance to explore various business areas, from live operations to production and distribution. The program aims to develop the next generation of manufacturing and operations leaders by combining structured leadership development, mentorship, networking, and rotational assignments. Trainees will build business acumen, strengthen communication and decision-making skills, and prepare to lead people and teams with confidence.

Key Responsibilities

• Rotate through multiple departments and business functions to gain a broad understanding of Butterball's operations and how teams work together.
• Build relationships with leaders and team members across the company.
• Learn how leaders drive results through communication, employee development, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Participate in leadership development sessions on topics such as communication, presentation skills, situational leadership, business systems, and professional growth.
• Learn and apply company standards related to safety, animal welfare, food quality, environmental compliance, and team member engagement.
• Complete assignments and experiences to strengthen leadership, business, and decision-making skills.
• Maintain a learning journal for reflections and development.
• Develop foundational skills for leading teams in a manufacturing environment.

Rotational Locations

• Mount Olive, NC (Processing Facility)
• Garner, NC (Corporate Office)
• Huntsville, AR (Processing Facility)

Opportunities to visit other Butterball operation facilities in North Carolina, Arkansas, and Missouri.

What You’ll Get

• Exposure to a variety of business functions, departments, and career paths.
• Leadership development, coaching, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
• Insight into different leadership styles, approaches, and career journeys.
• Professional and personal development experiences.
• Housing and relocation assistance.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• A full-time production leadership opportunity upon successful completion.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Poultry Science, Animal Science, Food Science, Agriculture, Business, Industrial Technology, Manufacturing, or a related field.
• Expected graduation between December 2026 and May 2027.
• Interest in leadership and developing others.
• Adaptable and comfortable navigating new environments and challenges.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Curious, inquisitive, and eager to learn.
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated leadership, internship, co-op, campus involvement, work experience, or other developmental experiences.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Experience in agriculture, poultry, food manufacturing, operations, or a related industry.

Physical Demands

May include standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing, reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, and using hands and fingers to operate equipment. Occasional climbing and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions & Travel Requirements

• Work in climate-controlled office environments and manufacturing plant environments with varying conditions (cold, wet, warm areas, chemicals).
• Requires wearing and working in personal protective equipment in the manufacturing environment.
• Noise levels in the manufacturing environment may exceed 85 DBA, requiring hearing protection.
• Travel and relocation are required.