Production Management Trainee
Full-time | Entry Level | Management Track
Compensation: $55,000 – $60,000/year (salaried, based on experience)
Pay advances as you advance, performance milestones tied to real responsibilities.
This isn’t a desk job, it’s a Launchpad
Most companies say “management track.” We mean it. Our Production Management Trainee program is a structured, hands-on path from the plant floor to a leadership role and we have a track record of promoting from within.
You’ll work directly alongside plant operations and management, learn every facet of how we run our business, and take on increasing responsibility as you prove yourself. If you’re a recent grad who wants to actually build something, not just shadow someone, this is for you.
What you’ll learn and do
- Learn plant operations end-to-end, products, processes, materials, cuts, and yields
- Master production scheduling, costing, and the budget & expense control process
- Operate business and administrative systems that drive day-to-day plant functions
- Develop working knowledge of Continuous Improvement, efficiency standards, and safety compliance
- Get exposure to HR policies and people management practices
- Tour other company facilities and customer locations to build a full picture of the business
- Work directly with your assigned mentor to build judgment, not just follow instructions
- Prepare reports and complete assignments that contribute to real operational decisions
What we’re looking for
- Bachelor’s degree in business or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Comfortable in Excel, you’ll use it daily
- Curiosity and a willingness to get on the floor, not just sit behind a screen
- Strong communicator who can work across departments
- Organized, detail-oriented, and accountable
Bonus points if you have
- Internship or co-op in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain
- Any exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or CI methodologies
- Leadership experience, student org, team captain, anything counts
- A genuine interest in how things are made
Why this program, why us
- A structured program with a real mentor, not just “figure it out”
- A stable, growing company with a long track record
- Clear path to plant management roles, we promote from within
- Day-one exposure to real operations, real budgets, real decisions
- Opportunity to travel to other facilities and expand your experience
- Full benefits package: medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- PTO + paid holidays
We’re an equal opportunity employer. Recent grads are encouraged to apply, we’re not looking for someone who already knows everything. We’re looking for someone who’s ready to learn fast and lead. Apply with your resume and a brief note about why manufacturing operations interests you.
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 We Do
UFP Industries is a holding company whose operating subsidiaries – UFP Packaging, UFP Construction and UFP Retail Solutions – manufacture, distribute and sell a wide variety of products used in residential and commercial construction, packaging and industrial applications. Founded in 1955, the company has operations in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
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