Trainee Operations Management-1st Shift Sedalia Plant

Position Summary

The Live Production & Plant Operations Trainee (Hybrid) program is designed to develop future Tyson Foods leaders by providing hands-on experience across both Live Production and Plant Operations. This rotational development opportunity offers exposure to the poultry supply chain from farm to processing while building the leadership, business, and operational skills necessary for a successful career in poultry operations management.

The trainee will work alongside experienced leaders and gain practical knowledge of production processes, people leadership, animal welfare, food safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Live Production

• Gain exposure to breeder, pullet, broiler, and hatchery operations.
• Support animal welfare, biosecurity, and regulatory compliance programs.
• Learn contract grower management and relationship-building practices.
• Assist with live production accounting, performance reporting, and operational analysis.
• Participate in environmental stewardship and compliance initiatives.
• Develop an understanding of production planning and flock management strategies.

Plant Operations

• Learn poultry processing operations and production workflows.
• Support food safety and quality assurance programs.
• Assist with production scheduling and yield management initiatives.
• Participate in labor management and employee engagement activities.
• Promote workplace safety and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Gain exposure to maintenance and reliability programs.
• Support continuous improvement projects focused on operational efficiency and cost reduction.
• Assist with inventory management and cost-control initiatives.
• Develop leadership skills through direct involvement with operational teams and supervisors.

Leadership Development

• Participate in structured training and development activities.
• Build problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Develop an understanding of key performance metrics and business objectives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across Live Production and Plant Operations.
• Demonstrate Tyson Foods’ core values of safety, accountability, integrity, and excellence.

Work Environment

This hybrid position provides experience in both agricultural and manufacturing environments. The role involves working in poultry houses, hatcheries, processing facilities, and office settings. Candidates must be comfortable working in varying environmental conditions and participating in hands-on operational activities.

The position requires flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn multiple aspects of poultry production and processing operations.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Poultry Science, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Operations Management, Engineering, Business, Biology, or a related field.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Interest in pursuing a leadership career in Live Production or Plant Operations.

Preferred

• Previous internship, co-op, or work experience in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, or related industries.
• Leadership experience through FFA, 4-H, student organizations, athletics, or other extracurricular activities.
• Demonstrated interest in poultry production, agriculture, operations management, or manufacturing.

Work Schedule

The standard schedule is generally Monday through Friday; however, flexibility is required to support business operations. Weekend and holiday work may be required based on Live Production and Plant Operations needs.

Location

Sedalia offers a strong agricultural community, affordable cost of living, and excellent quality of life. This role provides a unique opportunity to gain broad exposure to both live production and processing operations while building relationships with leaders across multiple business functions and preparing for future leadership opportunities within Tyson Foods.