Human Resources Management Development Associate

Job Description

Human Resources Management Development Associate | Nestlé Purina North America

The Tone:
This is a full-time leadership developmental role at Nestlé Purina North America, with an initial location in Crete, Nebraska, requiring relocation to other manufacturing sites across the U.S. as part of the program. Nestlé Purina North America is a leading pet food manufacturer with over 120 years of experience, driven by integrity and a deep commitment to the people-and-pet bond. The company fosters a “safety first” culture, pursuing zero defects and zero waste to enrich the lives of pets everywhere. This role is designed to fast-track future Human Resources leaders on the manufacturing side of the business, providing comprehensive coaching and exposure to critical operational functions like quality assurance, safety, supply chain, engineering, production, R&D engineering, information systems, and operations performance. Through a rotational component, associates gain fresh perspectives, build extensive networks, and focus on continuous learning and career growth within a company that prioritizes its associates’ job security, benefits, safety, and career development.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person – Crete, NE (initial location with required relocation across U.S. manufacturing sites)
• Pay: $70000 yearly
• Mission: To develop future Human Resources leaders by providing broad exposure to manufacturing operations and core HR functions, ensuring effective employee support and compliance within a “safety first” culture.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Communication: Facilitate clear communication with Plant Managers, Department Managers, and Team Leaders on all matters affecting factory employees.
• Program Implementation: Assist with the implementation of various employee services, policies, training initiatives, and programs across the factory.
• Training Support: Support and coordinate learning opportunities and training programs focused on safety, capital projects, special projects, and technical or functional skills.
• Leave and Benefits Coordination: Coordinate employees’ leave of absence, return-to-work processes (including FMLA and worker’s compensation), paid time off, and benefits administration.
• Compliance and Resource: Ensure adherence to and enforce compliance with local, state, and federal legislation related to HR policies, while serving as a primary HR resource for all factory employees.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Human Resources, or a related discipline, attained or expected by June 2027.
• Experience: This is an early-career leadership development role that requires openness to relocation to any of Nestlé Purina’s 24 manufacturing sites across the U.S. as progression occurs through the Management Development Associate program, with an initial rotation starting at the Nestlé Purina factory in Crete, Nebraska.
• Skills: Foundational understanding of developing and maintaining employee relations, supporting training initiatives, managing compensation and benefits, ensuring compliance with HR policies, and providing exceptional customer service.
• Bonus: Prior internship, co-op, practicum, or manufacturing experience; demonstrated involvement in student organizations or other leadership roles.