Operations Trainee

Rochester, NY | Production | Full-Time / On-Site

Reports To: Plant Manager

Department: Production

Schedule- 1st Shift

Position Summary

Buckeye Corrugated, Inc. (BCI) is seeking a motivated Business Trainee to join our Rochester manufacturing team. This is a 12-18 month development program designed to provide hands-on exposure to all areas of our corrugated packaging operations. The successful candidate will learn the day-to-day functions of manufacturing, safety, quality, production planning, equipment operations, and continuous improvement while preparing for future growth opportunities within the organization. This role is intended to develop candidates into future Production Supervisor and Plant Leadership Positions. Candidates should be willing to work flexible shift schedules and relocate for advancement opportunities within BCI if needed.

About BCI

Buckeye Corrugated, Inc. (BCI) is a privately held, employee-owned company with twelve corrugated manufacturing facilities across ten states. We provide custom-designed corrugated packaging, point-of-purchase displays, point-of-sale packaging, fulfillment, and logistics solutions. At BCI, we do more than make boxes. We create packaging solutions that shape impressions and influence perceptions.

BCI offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability benefits, 401(k), paid time off, holidays, bonus opportunities, and employee stock ownership.

Duties & Responsibilities

Tasks related to this position may vary and are not limited to those listed below:

• Follow all safety rules, ISO standards, policies, and procedures.
• Learn all aspects of corrugated manufacturing operations through structured training and hands-on experience.
• Gain exposure to production planning, scheduling, workflow management, and operational processes.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and waste reduction.
• Analyze production data, performance metrics, and operating efficiencies.
• Assist with identifying and resolving production and equipment-related issues.
• Participate in troubleshooting machinery and manufacturing processes.
• Learn reporting systems, production tracking, and operational performance measurements.
• Support projects related to process improvements and cost reduction initiatives.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Attend training programs, workshops, and professional development opportunities.
• Assist with machine operation and production activities while maintaining awareness of safety hazards, pinch points, and operating procedures.
• Operate forklifts, as needed, following all safety requirements.

Preferred Skill Set

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to learn manufacturing systems and business processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Self-motivated with a desire to grow into a leadership role.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field preferred.
• Manufacturing experience preferred, especially within the corrugated packaging industry.
• Certified forklift operator or willingness to obtain certification.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Results-oriented and able to work independently and within a team environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts as business needs require.
• Willingness to relocate for future advancement opportunities.
• Desire to develop into a Production Supervisor and manufacturing leadership role.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly stand, walk, and communicate throughout the manufacturing facility.
• Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach.
• Regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Work safely around moving equipment, forklifts, and production machinery.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings, machine pinch points, and safety hazards.
• Possess close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.