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Manufacturing Leadership Development Program Jobs

... A Leadership Development Program, future restaurant leadership, or a leadership role in a professional environment. This program is intended to provide the experience, coaching, business exposure ...

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Manufacturing Leadership Development Program information

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$32K

$120.1K

$200K

How much do manufacturing leadership development program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing leadership 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 is a manufacturing leadership development program?

A Manufacturing Leadership Development Program (MLDP) is a structured training initiative offered by companies to develop future leaders in manufacturing and operations. Participants, often recent graduates, rotate through various departments such as production, quality, supply chain, and engineering to gain hands-on experience. The program typically combines on-the-job learning, mentorship, and formal training to build leadership skills and a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes. Upon completion, participants are often placed into management or supervisory roles within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a manufacturing leadership development program, and why are they important?

To excel in a Manufacturing Leadership Development Program, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with manufacturing systems such as Lean, Six Sigma, and ERP software is often required, and relevant certifications can be advantageous. Exceptional communication, leadership potential, and adaptability are soft skills that help participants stand out. These competencies are vital for quickly mastering complex operations, driving process improvements, and effectively leading teams within dynamic manufacturing environments.

What can I expect in terms of rotation assignments and mentorship during a manufacturing leadership development program?

Participants in a Manufacturing Leadership Development Program typically rotate through multiple departments, such as production, quality, supply chain, and operations, to gain a broad understanding of the manufacturing process. Each rotation lasts several months and is designed to build both technical expertise and leadership skills. Most programs pair you with a dedicated mentor or coach who provides regular feedback and guidance. This structure helps you develop a strong foundation for future leadership roles within the company.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Leadership Development Program vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectManufacturing Leadership Development ProgramManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related fields; some programs prefer internships or leadership experienceBachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing, or industrial engineering is standard
Work EnvironmentRotational assignments across manufacturing units, leadership training, project managementDesign, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes; work on production lines or plant floors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing companies to develop future leaders; common in automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsEmployed in manufacturing plants, factories, and industrial settings across various industries

The Manufacturing Leadership Development Program is designed to cultivate future leaders through rotational training and leadership development, while Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing and improving manufacturing processes. Both roles require engineering degrees, but the program emphasizes leadership and management skills, whereas the engineer role centers on technical process optimization.

More about Manufacturing Leadership Development Program jobs

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Leadership Development Program jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Leadership Development Program jobs are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Leadership Development Program job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,059 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Leadership Development Program

jbpco

Reading, PA

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc. (JBPCO) is a privately held, diversified manufacturing company forecasting over $2.5B in annual revenues and employing over 8,000 team members.  The six operating subsidiaries, covering 60 locations, are engaged in the production of commercial truck bodies, step-vans, utility trucks, ambulances, electric and alternative fuel vehicles, and expandable foam plastic packaging.  For more information, visit https://www.jbpoindexter.com.

Our MBA Leadership Development Program is designed to identify future leaders for JB Poindexter & Co to help further facilitate our organizational growth. The program is designed to offer an accelerated path to Senior Manager, Director, and Vice President level roles, in operations or supply chain, at one of our businesses. As part of the program, you will have direct access to senior leaders across multiple companies and the corporate office.

The selected candidates will participate in our two-year rotation program. Each participant will spend six months in an operations or supply chain position with the intent of being able to learn about the operations and the broader business unit. Participants will develop an Individual Development Plan in conjunction with the program to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

Program participants will report directly to our Corporate SVP of Operations, who will serve as an executive-level mentor during the program.

  • There are two hubs for our Leadership Development Program. Each rotation in the program will be at one of our manufacturing businesses in and around Elkhart, IN/Sturgis, MI & Reading, PA/Morgantown, PA.***

Upon completion of the program, candidates will be offered a leadership position in one of our manufacturing locations within the United States. Your willingness to be flexible in terms of location during and after the program is critical for this role.

 

 

Requirements:

  • 2025-2026 M.B.A. degree from an accredited four-year university with a focus on operations, supply chain, business, or entrepreneurship. Preferably with a G.P.A. of 3.5 or higher.
  • A minimum of 3 to 5 years of hands-on supply chain or mechanical engineering experience on the plant floor while working directly for a discrete manufacturer (e.g., automotive, machinery, durable goods).
  • Proven manufacturing experience in demonstrating measurable achievements, preferably in management or leadership roles, either before or after completing an advanced degree.
  • Experience in operations, supply chain, or engineering.
  • Roles in leadership positions in school and or at work.
  • Demonstrated ability to build strong and lasting relationships.
  • May be required to relocate during the program.

J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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