Operations Management Trainee-Russellville, AR

Tyson•Russellville, AR

About The Position

The Operations Management Trainee (OMT) is a developmental leadership position that supports and influences day-to-day production and operational performance through independent judgment, data-driven analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. The role contributes to plant and live operations priorities by identifying opportunities, recommending solutions, and driving continuous improvement. In partnership with leadership, the OMT supports safety, quality, efficiency, and compliance while developing foundational skills for managing teams and processes. The position has no direct reports but is expected to exercise leadership by directing team members, coordinating workflow, and making real-time decisions to support operational continuity. The OMT may lead teams, projects, or production lines and influence performance and outcomes through leadership and decision-making. Travel may include up to 12 trips per year. Relocation assistance is eligible. The role is on first shift.

Requirements

Associate’s degree, technical degree, or higher in a related field, or equivalent practical experience (1 year).
Demonstrated exposure through internships, hands-on work, or academic projects in production, agriculture, manufacturing, live operations, or production operations environments.
Demonstrated analytical thinking, problem-solving, and independent judgment in operational settings.
Basic computer skills.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work in fast-paced, team-oriented environments.
Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Leadership potential and ability to influence without authority.
Adaptability and willingness to learn multiple functions.
Willingness and ability to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Willingness to travel up to 12 trips per year.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree; examples of relevant fields include Operations, Agriculture, Animal Science, poultry science, and Food Science.
Excel, SAP, or related systems experience.
Basic understanding of safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

Analyze operational performance metrics and identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.
Recommend and help implement process improvements related to safety, quality, yield, and efficiency.
Use independent judgment to troubleshoot operational issues and propose solutions.
Coordinate cross-functional initiatives with HR, Maintenance, FSQA, and Accounting to support plant objectives.
Lead or direct teams in assigned situations, such as gap coverage, line oversight, or project leadership.
Provide supervisors and managers with insights and recommendations to support decision-making.
Monitor compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements and escalate risks as needed.
Participate in planning and executing operational priorities, including staffing, production flow, and resource allocation.
Drive continuous improvement, including identifying cost savings, efficiency gains, and waste reduction opportunities.
Apply leadership principles to influence team performance, engagement, and accountability.
Develop working knowledge of equipment, processes, and systems to support operational decision-making.
Use approved AI tools responsibly, protect sensitive information, follow company policies, validate outputs, and apply professional judgment.