Operations Management Trainee

Tyson Foods; Franklin (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Tyson Foods is seeking an Operations Management Trainee in the United States (Virginia). The role develops foundational leadership skills through hands-on production optimization and cross-functional teamwork.

You will analyze performance data, support safety and quality initiatives, troubleshoot issues, and partner with HR, Maintenance, FSQA, and Accounting. Growth into supervisory positions is a core aim of this development program.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher in a related field or equivalent experience (1 year).
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Related fields include Operations, Agriculture, Poultry Science or Food Science.
• Exposure to production/manufacturing environments is expected.
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking are required.

Responsibilities

• Analyze performance results to identify trends and opportunities.
• Support improvements in safety, quality, yield, and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and propose solutions.
• Partner with HR, Maintenance, FSQA, and Accounting.
• Lead teams or processes and provide data-driven recommendations.
• Monitor compliance and escalate risks when needed.
• Assist in staffing planning and production flow.
• Drive cost savings, waste reduction, and efficiency gains.
• Build knowledge of equipment, processes, and systems.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Leadership

Adaptability

Safety standards

Excel

SAP

Education

Associate/Technical degree or higher

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Excel

SAP

Job description

Job Details:

The Operations Management Trainee (OMT) is a developmental leadership role supporting day-to-day production and operational performance. This position uses independent judgment, data analysis, and cross-functional teamwork to identify opportunities and drive improvement. The role builds foundational leadership capability for future supervisor positions.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Analyze performance results to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities
• Recommend and support improvements in safety, quality, yield, and efficiency
• Troubleshoot operational issues and propose solutions
• Partner with teams such as HR, Maintenance, FSQA, and Accounting
• Lead teams or processes as needed (line coverage, projects, etc.)
• Support supervisors and managers with data and recommendations
• Monitor compliance and elevate risks when needed
• Support planning for staffing, production flow, and resources
• Drive continuous improvement (cost savings, waste reduction, efficiency gains)
• Build knowledge of equipment, processes, and systems

Education & Experience

• Required: Associate’s degree, technical degree, or higher in a related field or equivalent practical experience (1 year)
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree
• Relevant fields: Operations, Agriculture, Animal Science, Poultry Science, Food Science, or similar
• Exposure to production, agriculture, or manufacturing environments through work, internships, or school projects
• Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical thinking

Key Competencies

• Basic computer skills (Excel; SAP preferred)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Leadership potential and ability to influence others
• Adaptability and willingness to learn
• Understanding of safety and quality standards (preferred)

Supervisory

No direct reports, but responsible for leading teams, coordinating work, and making real-time decisions to support operations.

Travel

Up to 12 trips per year

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

Yes

Work Shift:

1ST SHIFT (United States of America)

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.

We provide our team members and their families with

• Paid time off
• 401(k) plans
• Affordable health, life, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits
• and more

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