Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

The Operations Management Trainee (OMT) is an entry-level leadership development role designed for recent college graduates seeking to build a career in operations management within a fast-paced production environment. This position provides hands-on experience across multiple departments and shifts while developing the leadership, technical, and business skills necessary to manage people, processes, and production performance.

The OMT partners with operational leaders to support daily production activities, analyze performance data, identify process improvement opportunities, and help drive safety, quality, efficiency, and compliance initiatives. Through cross-functional collaboration and progressive responsibility, the trainee will gain exposure to all aspects of operations and prepare for future leadership opportunities within the organization.

• Analyze operational metrics and production data to identify trends, performance gaps, and improvement opportunities.
• Support the implementation of process improvements focused on safety, quality, yield, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Exercise independent judgment in identifying and resolving operational challenges.
• Partner with Human Resources, Maintenance, FSQA, Accounting, and Operations teams to support business objectives.
• Provide leadership support during staffing gaps, production line oversight, and departmental projects.
• Assist supervisors and managers by providing recommendations based on operational observations and data analysis.
• Monitor compliance with company policies, food safety standards, animal welfare requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
• Participate in production planning, staffing coordination, workflow management, and resource allocation activities.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives and recommend solutions that improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and employee engagement.
• Develop knowledge of equipment, processes, systems, and best practices across all operational areas.
• Rotate through multiple departments and work schedules to gain a comprehensive understanding of the business.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Degree focus in Operations Management, Agriculture, Animal Science, Poultry Science, Food Science, Agricultural Business, Industrial Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
• Internship, co-op, academic project, or work experience in a manufacturing, production, agricultural, food processing, poultry, or live operations environment.
• Demonstrated analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and leadership potential.

• Previous leadership experience through work, internships, student organizations, athletics, military service, or extracurricular activities.
• Experience interpreting operational data and performance metrics.

• No certifications required.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate across departments.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to influence others and lead without direct authority.
• Adaptability, learning agility, and willingness to work in changing operational environments.
• Basic understanding of safety, quality, and compliance standards preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

While this position does not have direct reports, the Operations Management Trainee is expected to demonstrate leadership capabilities by:

• Directing team members during assigned operational activities.
• Coordinating workflow and supporting production continuity.
• Leading projects, assignments, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Making real-time operational decisions within established guidelines.
• Influencing team performance, engagement, and accountability through effective leadership practices.

• Travel may be required up to 12 times per year for training, operational support, and development opportunities.
• Must be willing to work all shifts, including early morning, evening, overnight, weekends, and holidays as business needs require.
• Initial training may begin in Live Receiving, which requires a start time of approximately 4:30 a.m.
• Candidates should be flexible and willing to rotate through multiple departments to gain a comprehensive understanding of operations.

The ideal candidate is a recent college graduate with a strong desire to build a career in operations leadership. They are analytical, adaptable, and eager to learn while demonstrating initiative, leadership potential, and a passion for continuous improvement in a production environment.

To be considered, applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree and submit a current resume.