Operations- Emerging Leader Program

From a small family business to a multi-billion-dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive.

Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people. 

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.   

Your time spent in the ELP will cover specific core development areas as follows (but not limited to):   

• 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 

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

Sonoco is seeking candidates who will help us live our purpose each and every day. Our core belief is that “People Build Businesses, by Doing the Right Thing”. To become an Emerging Leader, you must have strong ethics, a passion for innovation, and be willing to go the extra mile.   

We are looking for students who:   

• 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   

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.    

Compensation:   

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 

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.