Manager Trainee

Apply for the Manager Trainee role at Welch Packaging .

Location: Elkhart, IN. Relocation required within 18-36 months for advancement.

Overview

Welch Packaging is seeking a driven, growth‑mindful operations leader who aspires to advance into plant leadership. This role is designed for high‑performing talent who can excel in today's responsibilities while preparing for broader operational and people leadership roles across our manufacturing network.

As a Manager Trainee, you will first learn the full operations of the corrugator over 9–12 months and ultimately lead daily production activities, coach teams, and drive performance in a fast‑paced corrugator environment. You will gain exposure to cross‑functional partners, participate in leadership development assignments, and receive mentorship to accelerate your long‑term career growth.

Key Responsibilities

Learn the corrugator and become proficient in all aspects from the sheet line to the control room.

Demonstrate strong self‑accountability and a desire to learn and be curious.

Position yourself as a coach encouraging the development of others and promoting safe practices.

Perform at key performance levels.

Growth & Development Opportunities

Lead and coach hourly team members to achieve daily targets in safety, quality, and productivity.

Oversee production activities on the corrugator or converting line.

Partner with maintenance, scheduling, and quality teams to optimize equipment uptime and minimize waste.

Support root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.

Communicate performance expectations clearly and hold team members accountable.

Qualifications

Required

3–7 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, military leadership, or a related field.

Demonstrated experience leading teams or influencing others.

Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work under pressure.

Strong communication skills and ability to influence across levels.

High degree of ownership, accountability, and follow‑through.

Preferred

Ability and willingness to relocate for future advancement.

Exposure to high‑volume, fast‑paced industrial or production environments.

Career ambition to move into roles of increasing responsibility.

Core Competencies

Learning agility – quickly steps into new environments and picks up new concepts.

Leadership drive – seeks responsibility, leads with integrity, and motivates others.

Resilience – maintains performance through challenges, change, and ambiguity.

Business curiosity – wants to understand how the plant runs and how they can improve it.

Mobility – open to relocating to prepare for broader leadership roles.

Physical Demands

Individuals may need to sit or stand as needed. May require walking primarily on a level surface for periodic periods throughout the day. Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist, or lifting as required to pull stock sheets for samples or to store materials during the workday. Proper lifting techniques required. May include lifting up to 50 pounds stock sheets.

Work Environment

Same as Physical Demands description.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Welch Packaging is proud to be an equal‑opportunity workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran.

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