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Production Manager Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UFP Industries

Production Manager Trainee

Moultrie, GA · On-site

Job Summary The Production Management Trainee is responsible for developing a comprehensive knowledge of plant operations and manufacturing processes. Works under the close direction of the assigned ...

UFP Industries

Production Manager Trainee

Moultrie, GA · On-site

Job Summary The Production Management Trainee is responsible for developing a comprehensive knowledge of plant operations and manufacturing processes. Works under the close direction of the assigned ...

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How much do production manager trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for production manager trainee in the United States is $26.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a management trainee make?

A production manager trainee typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Entry-level trainees may start at lower wages, with opportunities for advancement as they gain skills and certifications in production processes and management tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Production Manager Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Production Manager Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, a relevant degree (such as in engineering or business), and strong analytical abilities. Familiarity with production management software, lean manufacturing tools, and safety regulations is commonly required. Effective communication, leadership potential, and strong problem-solving skills help distinguish top candidates in this role. These skills ensure efficient production operations, support team leadership, and promote continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

What are Production Manager Trainees?

Production Manager Trainees are entry-level professionals who are being trained to oversee and coordinate the manufacturing process in a facility. They work under the supervision of experienced production managers to learn about production planning, workflow optimization, quality control, and staff management. Their goal is to gain the necessary skills and experience to eventually take on a full production manager role, ensuring that products are made efficiently, safely, and within quality standards. Typically, they participate in hands-on training, shadowing, and sometimes classroom instruction as part of their development.

Is a production manager a hard job?

A production manager role involves overseeing manufacturing processes, coordinating teams, and ensuring production deadlines are met, which can be demanding and require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. The job often involves long hours, managing multiple priorities, and handling unexpected issues on the production floor.

What is a production management trainee?

A production management trainee is an entry-level position designed to develop skills in overseeing manufacturing processes, coordinating teams, and ensuring production efficiency. Trainees typically learn about quality control, safety protocols, and use of production management tools during their training period. The role often involves mentorship and on-the-job training to prepare for a full production management position.

What qualifications do you need to be a trainee manager?

To become a production manager trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field. Relevant skills include leadership, communication, and problem-solving, along with familiarity with production processes and safety standards. Prior experience in manufacturing or operations can be beneficial but is not always required.

What is the difference between Production Manager Trainee vs Production Supervisor?

AspectProduction Manager TraineeProduction Supervisor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in manufacturing, engineering, or related fieldOften requires experience in production or manufacturing, sometimes with certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, learning management skills in production settingsOversees daily production operations on the shop floor
Employer UsageEntry-level training role within manufacturing companiesMid-level role responsible for supervising production staff
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry points and training roles in production managementLooking for supervisory roles in manufacturing

The Production Manager Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning management skills and gaining industry knowledge, often through training programs. In contrast, a Production Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily operations and managing production staff. While both roles are integral to manufacturing, the trainee role is more about development, whereas the supervisor role involves direct supervision and operational decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by a Production Manager Trainee, and how can they be addressed?

Production Manager Trainees often encounter challenges related to balancing production schedules, managing diverse teams, and adapting quickly to new processes or technologies. It's common to feel pressure when handling tight deadlines or unexpected supply chain issues. Proactively communicating with team members, seeking guidance from experienced managers, and staying organized with task management tools can help overcome these challenges. Building strong relationships across departments also fosters a supportive environment and smoother workflow.
More about Production Manager Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Production Manager Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Production Manager Trainee job openings:
What states have the most Production Manager Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Production Manager Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Production Manager Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Production Manager Trainee jobs are:
Production Manager Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Manager Trainee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,008 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Production Manager Trainee

Production Manager Trainee

UFP Industries

Moultrie, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

UFP Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Summary
The Production Management Trainee is responsible for developing a comprehensive knowledge of plant operations and manufacturing processes.
Works under the close direction of the assigned mentor and exercises little discretion and judgment on work priority on a regular basis and a small degree of creativity is expected.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develops comprehensive knowledge of Company products and procedures through on-the-job training activities.
  • Develops comprehensive knowledge of panel and lumber grades
  • Develops knowledge of lumber math and efficient utilization of materials and develops a full understanding of cuts and yields.
  • Learns how to operate the Company's business system in order to perform required administrative functions.
  • Develops detailed knowledge of product costing.
  • Develops an understanding of the production scheduling process.
  • Develops working knowledge of the budget and expense control process.
  • Supervises activities consistent with all Company policies, procedures, and applicable laws and regulations.
  • Develops working knowledge of Continuous Improvement, efficiency standards, and safety.
  • Develops working knowledge and understanding of Human Resources policies and practices.
  • Develops a detailed understanding of operations by touring other UFP facilities and customer locations.
  • Completes courses and assignments as directed.
  • Prepares various reports as required.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business or related discipline, or equivalent work experience is required.
  • Proficiency in the use of MS Excel spreadsheets is required.

Click here to watch what a day in the life of a Production Management Trainee looks like.
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

What UFP Industries employees say

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About UFP Industries

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Universal Forest Products, Inc., is a U.S.-based global corporation that finds reward in its roots and its hard-earned success. Founded in 1955 as a supplier of lumber to the manufactured housing industry, Universal today is a multibillion-dollar holding company with subsidiaries around the globe that serve three robust markets: retail, industrial and construction. Since 1993, Universal has been publicly traded (Nasdaq: UFPI). We re headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Industry

Wood product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Grand Rapids, MI, US

Year founded

1955

Social media

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