Commercial Operations Trainee-May 2026 – Merriam, KS

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YOUR OPPORTUNITY

We are looking for a candidate who exhibits strong critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills to join our dynamic team as a Commercial Operations Trainee in our Merriam, Kansas to start in the Spring/Summer of 2026. In this role, you will embark on a comprehensive training program with Seaboard Foods’ sales channels, Product Management, Supply Chain, and Business Intelligence departments. You will delve into learning about our products, processing plant operations, and logistics. The program includes management, departmental, and leadership training to equip you for a future role within Seaboard Foods. Upon successful completion of the training, you will be well-prepared to take on a responsible position in the organization, leveraging your critical thinking and analytical abilities to drive success.

ABOUT US

At Seaboard Foods, we create the most sought-after pork. A top U.S. pork producer/processor and leading exporter to 30+ countries, we are committed to bringing excellence to the table, seeking a better way to produce wholesome pork and connect every step between our farms and family tables. More than 5,400 employees in five states work on our farms, feed mills, and processing plant to produce Prairie Fresh pork, ensuring the well-being of our animals, the environment, our employees, and the communities we call home. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our renewable gas projects on our farms creating renewable energy. Owned by Seaboard Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, and nominated as one of the “Best Places to Work” by Kansas City’s Business Journal, we have a dynamic culture where our employees can contribute and understand why they matter.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Use data & analytics to improve sales practices and inform decisions.
• Monitor & analyze company and industry sales data to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities to increase Seaboard’s financial performance.
• Coordinate with, and understand the interconnected roles of Supply Chain, Sales, Product Management, and Business Intelligence to ensure timely, accurate, and intelligent sale and delivery of products.
• Understand plant processing including operations, fabrication, shipping, food safety, logistics and scheduling.
• Comprehend operational constraints and production trade-offs, and determine the appropriate actions that would further the objectives of the organization.
• Gain a deep understanding of product specifications and identify the unique features that differentiate Seaboard’s products from competitors.
• Develop and refine negotiation skills to effectively communicate, advocate for, and secure favorable terms in business interactions, contracts, and agreements, and exercise an understanding of commodity markets.
• Familiarize yourself with each sales channel (Further Processor, Export, Retail, Food Service) within the organization and pinpoint opportunities to maximize profitability by refining sales strategies.
• Able to learn independently utilizing available resources

CORE COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESS IN ALL ROLES: instills trust, communicates effectively, action-oriented, ensures accountability, and drives results.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year university or college, an Associate degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school preferred; or two to four years demonstrated experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Technical minded, numbers-oriented and logistics driven
• Enjoys problem solving and works well in a rapidly changing environment
• Ability to facilitate, encourage, coach and lead a team to reach set goals
• Good critical thinking and judgement skills to reach the best possible solution to a problem
• Ability to communicate effectively with and create content that is easily interpreted by a diverse group of people such as employees, supervisors, and senior management

Preferred:

• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, or Tableau.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Knowledge of Supply Chain Management Principles and practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or related disciplines.
• Experience using Artificial Intelligence tools (Chat GPT, Copilot, Prompting, etc…)
• Experience using AS400 or a similar ERP system.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical and work demands listed here represent those an employee should possess to successfully perform the job’s essential functions. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Primarily an office environment with some need to work in the field.

WHY SEABOARD FOODS?

• Medical, vision & dental benefits upon hire
• 401K with company match
• Paid Time Off & Company Holidays
• Wellness Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee pork purchase program

For a complete list of our benefits please visit our career site:

https://www.seaboardfoods.com/careers/why-sbf/

Seaboard Foods is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans’ status, status as a disabled individual, or any other status protected by law.