Professional Development Program (PDP) Associate

Job Description

Integrated Operations Associate | Austal USA

The Tone:
This is a full-time professional development program at Austal USA, located in Mobile, AL. Austal USA is a prominent defense contractor specializing in the design, construction, and repair of military and commercial vessels. This program is an accelerated career development pathway designed for early-career professionals, providing immersive exposure to the core shipbuilding functions—from engineering and operations to supply chain and business development. The role is pivotal in fostering the next generation of technical and operational leaders who will contribute to the successful design, building, resourcing, scheduling, and delivery of Austal USA’s ships.

The TL;DR
• Role: Professional Development Program (PDP)
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person, Mobile, AL

• Team: Rotates under the supervision of functional leaders across assigned departments, with Human Resources providing oversight for the professional development program.
• Mission: To cultivate early-career professionals into future technical and operational leaders by providing comprehensive, hands-on experience across core shipbuilding functions.
• Tech Stack: Project management, data analysis tools, ERP/MRP systems, process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma)

What You’ll Actually Do
• Rotational Learning: Complete structured rotations across key departments such as Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Business Development, gaining firsthand experience in critical shipbuilding processes.
• Project and Improvement Initiatives: Support significant project work and continuous improvement initiatives focused on enhancing production flow, engineering efficiency, material availability, and program execution.
• Data Analysis and Insights: Analyze a range of operational, technical, marketing/business development, and supply chain data to identify trends, potential risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with diverse cross-functional teams, including design engineering, planning, procurement, and program management, to understand workflows, contribute to team objectives, and support deliverable completion.
• Professional Skill Development: Actively participate in professional development activities, including workshops, technical training sessions, and personalized mentorship programs, to build foundational knowledge and essential skills.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Industrial Technology, Marketing/Business Development, or a related technical/business field. This program is specifically designed for early-career professionals.
• Experience: Demonstrate leadership potential through prior internships, active campus involvement, or other relevant professional experiences.
• Skills: Possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Exhibit a robust curiosity, adaptability, and a proactive growth mindset, along with the ability to work collaboratively within a production-driven environment.
• Bonus: Preferred qualifications include internship or Co-op experience in manufacturing, engineering, shipbuilding, or a similar technical/industrial setting. Familiarity with project management, data analysis tools, ERP/MRP systems, or process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) is also a plus.