2027 Management Trainee Program

Butterball Careers • Garner, NC

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

Butterball's 12-month rotational Management Trainee Program is designed for recent graduates to explore various aspects of the business, including live operations, production, and distribution. Trainees will gain exposure to diverse career paths, learning experiences, and leadership styles to develop their own leadership skills and prepare for a career at Butterball. The program combines structured leadership development, mentorship, networking, and rotational assignments to build business acumen, communication, and decision-making skills, preparing participants to lead teams confidently. Trainees are encouraged to reflect on observed leadership styles and develop their own aligned with Butterball's values. Primary rotation locations include Mount Olive, NC; Garner, NC; and Huntsville, AR, with opportunities to visit other facilities in North Carolina, Arkansas, and Missouri.

Requirements

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Poultry Science, Animal Science, Food Science, Agriculture, Business, Industrial Technology, Manufacturing, or a related field (expected graduation between December 2026 and May 2027).
• Interest in leadership and developing others.
• Adaptable and comfortable navigating new environments, challenges, and learning opportunities.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Curious, inquisitive, and eager to learn.
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated leadership, internship, co-op, campus involvement, work experience, or other developmental experiences.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in agriculture, poultry, food manufacturing, operations, or a related industry.

Responsibilities

• Rotate through multiple departments and business functions to gain a broad understanding of Butterball's operations and how teams work together to achieve business goals.
• Build relationships with leaders and team members across the company through rotational experiences, mentorship, and collaboration.
• Learn how leaders across the organization drive results through communication, employee development, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Participate in leadership development sessions focused on topics such as communication, presentation skills, situational leadership, business systems, and professional growth.
• Learn and apply company standards related to safety, animal welfare, food quality, environmental compliance, and team member engagement.
• Complete meaningful assignments and experiences that strengthen leadership, business, and decision-making skills.
• Maintain a learning journal to document experiences, reflections, and leadership development throughout the program.
• Develop the foundational skills needed to lead teams in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits

• Housing and relocation assistance.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• A full-time production leadership opportunity upon successful completion of the program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level