Emerging Leaders Program Associate – Manufacturing Engineering

Job Description

Emerging Leader Operations | Sonoco

The Tone:
This is a full-time role at Sonoco, located in Columbus, OH. Sonoco is a multi-billion-dollar global company that has been a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries since 1899. This role is part of the Emerging Leaders Program, a selective program designed for professionals starting their career to develop leadership skills, gain technical knowledge, and understand Sonoco’s culture. As an Emerging Leader in Operations, you will contribute directly to Sonoco’s purpose, “People Build Businesses, by Doing the Right Thing,” through valuable project work and hands-on experience.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person Columbus, OH
• Pay: $77000–$85000 yearly
• Team: Consumer Packaging Americas
• Mission: Develop leadership skills, technical knowledge, and business acumen while contributing to Sonoco through valuable project work and understanding company culture.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Engage in operational development through technical training needed to excel in the role within the Consumer Packaging Americas division.
• Participate in personal development activities to increase self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and conflict management skills.
• Undertake leadership development, learning to communicate vision, increase engagement, effectively manage change, and establish trust through results and relationships.
• Connect with business leaders through coaching and networking opportunities provided by the Emerging Leaders Program.
• Contribute to Sonoco’s objectives through valuable project work, gaining a better understanding of your leadership style and the company’s processes.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor or Master’s degree in Industrial, Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering obtained by December 2026 or May 2027. This is an early career position.
• Experience: Previous internship experience, preferably in Manufacturing or a related functional area, along with proven leadership experience.
• Skills: Strong technical aptitude, excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, and a desire to work in a Manufacturing environment.
• Bonus: Strong ethics, a passion for innovation, a willingness to go the extra mile, and flexibility regarding relocation (immediately or in the future) and location preferences.