Operations Management Trainee

Are you a recent college graduate or a current junior or senior pursuing a degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field? Are you looking for an opportunity to develop into a future manufacturing leader?

The Ruiz Foods Operations Management Trainee Program is an entry-level leadership development opportunity designed specifically for high-potential students and recent graduates who are interested in building a career in manufacturing and operations leadership. Through hands-on experience, leadership development, mentorship, and rotational assignments across key plant functions, participants will gain the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to prepare for future supervisory and management roles.

This structured program provides exposure to production, quality, maintenance, safety, logistics, workforce management, and continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. Trainees will work alongside experienced leaders, participate in business-critical projects, and develop the leadership capabilities needed to drive operational excellence.

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

This opportunity is best suited for candidates who:

• Recently earned a Bachelor's degree or are currently in their junior or senior year pursuing a degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• Have a strong interest in developing a long-term career in manufacturing, operations, and plant leadership.
• Demonstrate leadership potential through academic projects, internships, work experience, student organizations, athletics, or community involvement.
• Enjoy solving problems, analyzing data, and identifying opportunities to improve processes.
• Thrive in fast-paced environments and are eager to learn new skills and take on challenges.
• Are adaptable, motivated, and willing to rotate through various operational departments.
• Value teamwork, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Possess strong communication skills and can effectively work with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Are interested in growing into future leadership positions within a manufacturing organization.

COMPENSATION:

• $25 - $30/hour

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Participate in a structured rotational program across core plant functions such as production, quality, maintenance, safety, and logistics
• Learn and apply plant performance metrics, operational standards, and continuous improvement principles
• Support daily operations by analyzing problems, recommending solutions, and contributing to improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with frontline leaders and cross-functional teams to support production goals and business objectives
• Demonstrate leadership behaviors by influencing others, embracing feedback, and modeling company values
• Develop an understanding of workforce management, safety expectations, and compliance requirements
• Complete assigned projects that demonstrate problem-solving, analytical thinking, and process improvement
• Progressively assume increased responsibility based on performance and capability development
• Adhere to and support standard operating procedures (SOP) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards
• Will be expected to complete Six Sigma Yellow and Green belt within the first six months.
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated ability to succeed in a fast-paced, manufacturing or operations-focused environment
• Willingness to work flexible schedules and rotate assignments across plant functions as required
• Demonstrates potential to align with company values
• Strong overall culture fit, including professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and a commitment to safety and quality #LI-DNI