What are the responsibilities and job description for the Leadership Development Program position at Shearer's Foods?
Company Overview:
Shearer’s Foods, founded in 1974 and headquartered in Massillon, OH, is a leading manufacturer of salty snacks, cookies, and crackers. Specializing in private label and co-manufacturing, Shearer’s is the largest supplier of private brand salty snacks and second-largest supplier of private brand cookies and crackers.
With a strong focus on innovation, service, quality, and sustainability, Shearer’s has been awarded the food industry’s highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as multiple Supplier of the Year awards.
Operating 16 locations across North America and employing more than 5000 team members, Shearer’s is driven by its core values of People, Grow, Impact and Win. The company mission is to deliver exceptional products and services that make snacking a time to celebrate for our customers, colleagues, and community.
At Shearer’s Foods, we believe in a skills-first approach to recruitment and employment. This means focusing on what you can do and how you can grow, rather than traditional metrics alone. We are committed to adhering to anti-exclusion practices, removing barriers to access, and enhancing opportunities for all individuals based on merit and potential. Your skills, experience, and perspective are valuable—and we want to empower you to make your mark here with us.
Where Engineers Become Leaders:
The Shearer’s Operations Leadership Associate role is designed for high-potential, early-career engineers and technical graduates who aspire to become future manufacturing leaders at Shearer’s Foods. This structured development program provides hands-on plant experience, formal training, and leadership exposure to prepare participants for long-term success in operations, engineering, and supply chain leadership roles.
Through rotational, on-the-job learning and real-world project ownership, trainees will build a strong foundation in manufacturing operations, continuous improvement, and people leadership — with a clear path toward roles such as Operations Manager, Plant Director, or Functional Leader.
Locations Available - Relocation Provided:
- Pheonix Arizona
- Burlington Iowa
- Dayton Ohio
- Massillon Ohio
- Fort Worth Texas
- Waterford Pennsylvania
What You’ll Do:
Lead Continuous Improvement Initiatives
Support and lead projects focused on improving safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency across manufacturing operations.
Hands-On Manufacturing Experience
Gain direct, on-the-floor exposure by qualifying in multiple operator positions, building a deep understanding of production processes and plant operations.
Engineering & Process Support
Partner with engineering and operations teams to optimize production processes, reduce downtime, and drive operational improvements.
Maintenance & Equipment Exposure
Assist with equipment maintenance activities and troubleshooting to ensure reliable, efficient production performance.
Data & Performance Analysis
Collect and analyze data related to equipment performance, production output, and quality metrics to support fact-based decision-making.
Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
Support root cause analysis and resolution of mechanical, electrical, and process-related issues.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with production, quality, maintenance, and supply chain teams to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
Documentation & Reporting
Maintain accurate records related to projects, process improvements, and operational results.
Learning & Development
Actively participate in formal training, leadership development sessions, and on-the-job learning experiences throughout the program.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related technical field
- (Recent graduates or soon-to-be graduates encouraged to apply)
- Strong interest in manufacturing, operations, and leadership development
- Desire to grow into a future operations or plant leadership role
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment
- Basic understanding of mechanical systems, electrical components, or production processes is a plus
- Previous co-op or internship experience in a manufacturing environment is strongly preferred.
Because at Shearer’s, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.