Operator 2 - Functional Trainer (Culp)

Job Level

Business Operations-B3

Job Description

Functional Trainer (OP2) – 2-Year Rotational Assignment

Location: Kansas City, MO (Greenies Plant) Segment: Mars Petcare

The Functional Trainer (OP2) is a critical role dedicated to building technical capability and driving operational excellence at our Kansas City (KAN) facility. In this 2-year rotational assignment, you will leverage world-class training methodologies to design, develop, administer, and facilitate high-impact training programs. Your mission is to rapidly build technical skills, support seamless onboarding, and drive continuous performance improvements for both new and existing Associates on the production floor.

What are we looking for?

Education & Experience

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Manufacturing Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Internal Standard: Must currently be at an OP2 Level 3 with demonstrated competency in your role.

Key Skills & Knowledge

• Technical & Mechanical Aptitude: Strong mechanical aptitude and a systematic approach to technical problem-solving.
• Digital Literacy: Proficiency using Digital Factory tools (including iPads and Redzone), SAP, and standard Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint) to create and schedule materials.
• Interpersonal & Communication Excellence: Superior written and oral communication skills, with an ability to deliver clear, constructive feedback and lead/influence without authority.
• Self-Direction: Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple training initiatives simultaneously, and comfortably navigate ambiguity.

Physical & Schedule Demands

• Physical Capability: Ability to lift up to 25 kg (approx. 55 lbs) in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Shift Flexibility: Must have the flexibility to work and support training across all shifts. Consistent with our Mutuality Principle, shift schedules will be planned and communicated well in advance to support work-life balance.
• Travel: Occasional travel may be required.

What will be your key responsibilities?

On-the-Job Training & Assessment

• Administer structured, 1:1, and small-group On-the-Job Training (OJT) to new Associates during their initial 3-week Functional Training Program.
• Evaluate trainee progress, deliver constructive performance feedback, and record development using Digital Factory tools (including iPads and Redzone Step Up Cards / SUCs).
• Assist in facilitating New Hire Orientation (NHO), which includes presenting benefits information, leading site tours, and ensuring a welcoming transition for new team members.
• Guide and support trainees in mastering core digital platforms (such as Redzone, SAP, and electronic work systems).

Capability Building & Certification Strategy

• Obtain and utilize On-the-Job Trainer (OJT) and Teach Coach Assess (TCA) certifications to build sustainable capabilities on site.
• Provide active coaching, troubleshooting, and material support to other OJTs on the manufacturing floor.
• Deliver targeted training interventions across all operational shifts to proactively close identified skill and competency gaps.
• Participate as an active member of the Education & Training (E&T) Pillar, contributing to site-wide learning initiatives.

Collaboration & Process Standardization

• Partner with Continuous Improvement Specialists (CIS) and Area Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) to optimize processes, create training materials, and brainstorm solutions.
• Collaborate with Quality & Food Safety (Q&FS), Health, Safety & Environment (HSE), and Technical teams to author and align on standard operating documentation.
• Develop, update, and maintain Standard Work Instructions (SWIs), One Point Lessons (OPLs), and Step Up Cards (SUCs) to ensure standard work is followed consistently across all shifts.
• Coordinate with Shift Managers to conduct Training Validation audits, verifying that Associate skill levels meet performance and safety expectations.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Our Five Principles: Work in an environment defined by our Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom.
• Growth and Development: This 2-year rotational role is specifically designed to expand your leadership capability, teaching skills, and cross-functional visibility, serving as an excellent springboard for your career progression at Mars.
• An Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse team of Associates dedicated to making a better world for pets, where your unique background, voice, and veteran or civilian experiences are highly valued.
• Collaborative Safety: A commitment to safety and quality where we look out for one another every single day.

About Mars, Incorporated

Mars is a family-owned business with over a century of history making diverse products and offering services for people and the pets people love. With almost $35 billion in sales, the company is a global business that produces some of the world’s best-loved brands: M&M’s®, SNICKERS®, TWIX®, MILKY WAY®, DOVE®, PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, WHISKAS®, EXTRA®, ORBIT®, 5™, SKITTLES®, and COCOAVIA®. Mars also provides veterinary health services that include BANFIELD® Pet Hospitals, Blue Pearl®, VCA® and Pet Partners™.

Skills

Analytical Capability, Analytical Capability, Asset Management, Business Process Application, Commercial Awareness, Continual Improvement Process, Customer-Focused, Environment Management, Equipment Operation and Maintenance, Financial Essentials, Food Safety and Sanitation (Inactive), Lean Principles, Logistics Management, Make Principles, Material Handling and Management, Operations Management, Planning, Process Execution and Monitoring, Production Planning and Scheduling, Project Management, Quality Assurance and Control, Quality at Mars, Quality Control and Re-Manufacturing, Record Keeping and Performance Analysis, Regulatory Compliance {+ 2 more}

Competencies

Communicates Effectively, Directs Work, Drives Engagement, Drives Results, Ensures Accountability, Interpersonal Savvy, Manages Complexity, Plans and Aligns

Disclaimer: Mars is an equal opportunity employer and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.

Job Posting To Be Removed By, If Applicable

21 Jul 2026