Operations- Emerging Leader Program

About the program

Sonoco’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a selective program for professionals starting their career with Sonoco. Offering full-time positions that extend beyond a traditional first job, we give associates hands-on experience, leadership development, coaching, and opportunities to connect with business leaders. The program is designed to help you develop leadership skills, gain technical knowledge, establish strong business skills and understand Sonoco’s culture and processes. Throughout the program you can expect to gain a better understanding of your leadership style and contribute to Sonoco through valuable project work.

Core development areas

• Operational Development – Technical training needed to excel in your role
• Personal Development – Increasing self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and conflict management skills
• Leadership Development – Learning how to communicate vision, increase engagement, effectively manage change, and establish trust through results and relationships

Location

This specific ELP role will be a part of our Consumer America Division, located in our Oakdale, California facility.

Qualifications

• Have or will obtain a Bachelor or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering by December 2026 or May 2027
• Previous internship experience (preferably in Manufacturing or functional area)
• Proven leadership experience
• Desire to work in a Manufacturing environment
• Technical aptitude
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills

Relocation

The ELP is the start of a career at Sonoco, which can include relocation (immediately or in the future) and new ELP associates are expected to be open to the possibility of relocation. Although these positions are listed in specific locations, candidates will be matched based on their unique experiences and specific location needs. We ask that Emerging Leader Program candidates remain flexible with their location preferences.

Pay

• The annual base salary range for Business Non-Technical Degrees is between $68,000 and $71,000
• The annual base salary range for Technical/Engineering Degrees is between $77,000 and $85,000

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
• Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
• Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement