Rotational Operations Leader in Manufacturing

The Operations Leadership Program Associate is responsible for learning, leading, and contributing across diverse operational functions while building the capabilities required to lead people and processes in a complex manufacturing environment. This role exists to offer a transformative, hands‑on learning experience that accelerates both technical and leadership growth, empowering participants to make meaningful contributions from day one. Through exposure to real business challenges, cross‑functional collaboration, and project ownership, Associates develop critical skills to analyze, improve, and lead operational systems and teams.

This rotational leadership development program is designed to ensure succession readiness, operational excellence, and leadership continuity across APS’s manufacturing function.

• Apply technical knowledge to improve process capability, product quality, and equipment reliability through hands‑on problem solving.
• Participate in engineering design and optimization projects focused on safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Support data collection and analysis to identify root causes and implement corrective actions for recurring technical issues.
• Contribute to continuous improvement through the application of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Collaborate with quality, production, and maintenance teams to enhance process consistency and compliance.
• Build technical depth and system understanding that support future leadership in operations.

• Engage in strategic projects that drive operational excellence, safety, and environmental stewardship across APS sites.
• Support the deployment of APS’s global frameworks, standards, and best practices in project execution and performance management.
• Lead or contribute to initiatives that strengthen safety culture and employee engagement.
• Use data analytics and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and measure impact.
• Partner with leaders to implement sustainable process improvements and change initiatives.
• Develop strategic thinking and project leadership skills through exposure to enterprise‑wide initiatives.

• Take ownership of day‑to‑day production or logistics activities, ensuring safety, quality, and delivery standards are consistently met.
• Lead small teams or improvement initiatives to drive operational performance.
• Monitor production metrics and use problem‑solving tools to address inefficiencies and downtime.
• Support Lean Manufacturing deployment through 5S, Standard Work, and Daily Management practices.
• Collaborate with technical and support teams to optimize resource utilization and process flow.
• Develop hands‑on leadership experience and a deep understanding of manufacturing operations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related technical field.
• Master’s Degree is preferred.

• 2+ years of full‑time work experience.
• Demonstrated participation in leadership, improvement, or project initiatives is an asset.

• Must be willing to relocate anywhere in the US both during and after the program.
• This 2‑year rotational program will have an initial placement for year one and a second relocation for the start of year two.

• English required; additional languages are a plus.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a drive for continuous learning.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills in multicultural environments.
• Adaptability, initiative, and resilience in fast‑changing situations.
• Results‑driven mindset with a passion for operational excellence and safety.
• Ability to lead through influence and inspire teamwork.

• Comprehensive Health, Welfare, Life, and Retirement Programs:
  Robust benefits aligned with local practices.
• 401(k) Program: 6 % Lyondell…