LEAP - Operations Trainee Program

Canfor • Urbana, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Canfor’s LEAP (Leadership Exposure Acceleration Program) – Operations Management Trainee Program is a fast-tracked leadership development opportunity for high-potential early-career professionals who are interested in building a long-term career in manufacturing leadership. Through structured rotations, hands-on operational experience, mentorship and targeted leadership development, participants gain exposure to all aspects of the mill operations and are prepared for future supervisor roles. This is a 1-year program; upon successful completion, you will transition into a managerial role at the plant.

Requirements

• College or university degree (preferred)
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in manufacturing (preferred)
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and willingness to learn
• Ability to work all shifts and in mill or outdoor environments
• Flexibility to work from any of our operations (preferred)

Nice To Haves

• College or university degree
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in manufacturing
• Flexibility to work from any of our operations

Responsibilities

• Complete full-mill operational rotations across production, maintenance, safety, and continuous improvement
• Work closely with mill leadership, subject matter experts, and mentors to develop leadership and people-management skills
• Gain hands-on experience supervising teams in a manufacturing environment
• Participate in structured technical and leadership training
• Build strong knowledge of Canfor systems, safety culture, and mill operational best practices
• Earn industry-recognized credentials, including the Industrial Wood Processing Certificate from British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)

Benefits

• At Canfor, we invest in our people and their future. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, hands-on learning, and long-term career growth opportunities.
• At Canfor, we embrace diversity, valuing everyone’s unique qualities. We believe that inclusion and diversity are crucial for our productivity, creativity, innovation, and competitive edge
• Our recruitment process is fair and equitable, based on qualifications and experience.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees