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Graduate Development Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Development Program Manager acts as the point-of-contact between elements of Program Management ... Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum ...

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How much do graduate development program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate development program in the United States is $120,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Graduate Development Program position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Graduate Development Program, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, a strong academic record, and enthusiasm for learning in a professional environment. Familiarity with industry-specific software, data analysis tools, or project management systems can be beneficial depending on the sector. Excellent communication, adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help individuals stand out in this rotational, mentorship-driven setting. These skills and qualifications are vital for successfully integrating into diverse teams, learning quickly, and maximizing the opportunities these programs offer for early-career development.

What kinds of career advancement opportunities can I expect after completing a Graduate Development Program?

Graduate Development Programs are designed to fast-track participants into roles of greater responsibility by providing exposure to multiple business areas and structured mentorship. Upon completion, graduates may transition directly into specialized positions within the organization, often with clearer pathways to leadership or management roles. Many programs also offer ongoing professional development, networking opportunities, and support from senior leaders to help alumni continue growing their careers. The skills and insights gained throughout the program make graduates highly competitive for a wide range of future opportunities within the company or industry.

What is a Graduate Development Program job?

A Graduate Development Program (GDP) is an entry-level job designed for recent graduates to gain structured training and hands-on experience in a specific industry or company. These programs typically last from one to three years and include rotations across different departments, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. The goal is to equip graduates with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for long-term career growth within the organization.

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Infographic showing various Graduate Development Program job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,059 per year, or $57.7 per hour.
SPARK Leadership Development Program

SPARK Leadership Development Program

Chick-fil-A

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Chick-fil-A rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7,552 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 104 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Chick-fil-A Windward Parkway/Halcyon is pursuing high-capacity leaders who are ready to invest in their own growth. The SPARK Leadership Development Program is a self-directed, 2–5 year developmental experience designed to launch your career in restaurant operations, business leadership, or the broader Chick-fil-A system.

SPARK participants begin at the Team Member level and earn their way into progressively greater responsibility through demonstrated performance, initiative, and leadership. There is no fast-track shortcut — this program rewards those who are hungry to learn, humble enough to start from the ground up, and driven to climb.

Throughout the program, participants rotate through core business functions and gain hands-on experience in:

Operations & Restaurant Excellence

Human Resources & Talent Development (Recruiting, Hiring, Training, Developing Others)

Finance & Business Analysis

Sales & Brand Growth

Community & Staff Networking

Quality Assessment & Guest Experience

Leadership Coaching (1:1 with Operator Colby Cameron)

About Our Business

Our multi-unit restaurant is growing toward $19+ million in annual sales volume. Our kitchen is Food Safety Elite-certified and our drive-thrus consistently rank among the top performers in the state of Georgia. We operate two locations — in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA — and are actively preparing to expand further.

Our Owner/Operator, Colby Cameron, has developed over a dozen Chick-fil-A Franchisee Owner/Operators and Corporate Support Staff members. Participants in SPARK benefit directly from his mentorship and gain proximity to the Chick-fil-A Support Center in Atlanta for networking and career development.

Our Culture: Competitive. Celebratory. Caring.

“To be excellent.”

Vision: “To offer remarkable experiences by being the premier employer and best eating establishment in our area.”

Core Values:

Safe & Reliable

People Growth & Development

Continuous Improvement

Job Ownership

Key Responsibilities & Learnings

As a SPARK participant, you will grow into responsibilities including but not limited to:

Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise Team Members; complete new-hire and payroll paperwork, scheduling, biweekly payroll, and performance management

Develop and implement training plans to Pathway standards; conduct Team Member performance reviews and create development plans

Create role clarity and clear communication across the team; develop processes and procedures to ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws

Assess the business across people, quality, guest experience, sales, and financial return; develop 30/60/90-day business plans

Analyze Customer Engagement Monitor (CEM) survey results and create strategies to enhance scores, including coaching and identifying areas of opportunity

Implement and oversee inventory and ordering processes; identify and solve bottlenecks to maximize throughput

Analyze financial data (including End of Month packages) to drive optimal business decisions and maximize financial return

Evaluate vendor performance and make relationship adjustments as needed

Requirements & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree, Emerging College Graduate, or Experienced Business Professional

Experience:

At least 1 year of experience in a high-volume, fast-paced, guest-focused environment (previous Chick-fil-A experience preferred)

Experience working with and leading teams

Skills & Attributes:

Ability to work independently with minimal oversight and a strong sense of personal accountability

Sound business judgment and problem-solving skills

Ability to provide clear, consistent feedback and manage conflict respectfully

Listens effectively and seeks to understand others

Quickly establishes rapport and inspires those around them

Communicates clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing

Cheerful, positive attitude with a genuine love for serving and helping others

Consistency, reliability, and values-driven teamwork

Willingness to adapt schedule to meet business demands, including weekend availability

Able to stand and work on feet for several hours at a time

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive pay

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off & Vacation

Scholarship Opportunities

Free meals during shifts

Referral Program

Sunday’s Off

Flexible scheduling with consistent structure

Direct mentorship from Operator Colby Cameron and access to Chick-fil-A Support Center network

Schedule & Job Details

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: On-Site (Alpharetta and/or Cumming, GA)

Education Requirement: High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred

Shifts: Day, Night, 8- or 10-hour shifts; overtime as needed; weekend availability required

 

Working at a Chick-fil-A® restaurant is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. Chick-fil-A Windward Parkway/Halcyon is locally owned and operated by Operator Colby Cameron, who is personally invested in the development of every SPARK leader.

Apply today and start climbing.

Working at Chick-fil-A® Milton is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. Our vision is to offer remarkable experiences by being the premier eating establishment in the Milton/Alpharetta area! We are independently owned and operated and we invest in the future of our Team Members while giving back to the Milton/Alpharetta community.


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About Chick-fil-A

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chick-fil-A, based in Atlanta, GA, US, is a well-known company in the quick-service restaurant industry. The company's official website is chick-fil-a.com. Chick-fil-A specializes in freshly prepared chicken sandwiches and other delicious chicken meals. It was founded by Truett Cathy in 1946, initially as a diner named 'The Dwarf Grill'. In 1967, the first Chick-fil-A restaurant was established. Today, Chick-fil-A operates more than 2,400 restaurants across the U.S. The core values of the company include integrity, excellence, continuous improvement, and caring. The mission of Chick-fil-A is to "Be America's best quick-service restaurant." The company prides itself on providing high-quality food and service, fostering a positive dining experience, and giving back to the communities they serve. Notable achievements include pioneering in-mall fast food and introducing the original boneless chicken sandwich.

Industry

Restaurants, food services and drinking places and traveler accommodation

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

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