Swisher SkillBridge Program APO Materials Handler Supervisor
This SkillBridge opportunity is designed for transitioning service members who are seeking a leadership role in logistics and material handling. The Material Handler Supervisor Trainee will work under the mentorship of experienced supervisors to learn how to coordinate and lead warehouse operations, including the receipt, storage, and distribution of materials. This is a hands-on training opportunity focused on developing supervisory and inventory management skills in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
ABOUT THE JOB
For the past 162 years, Swisher has been an industry leader known for its iconic products and commitment to high quality standards. With a rich history, Swisher serves adult consumers through a diverse range of businesses, including Swisher Sweets Cigar Company, Helme Tobacco Co., Hempire, Rogue Holdings, and Drew Estate: The Rebirth of Cigars. We have a passion for people and helping them build rewarding careers. If you’re ready to create excitement and drive what’s next in the industry, we’d love to hear from you.About the Opportunity:Swisher is offering a DoD SkillBridge opportunity for transitioning service members to gain valuable, hands-on experience in overseeing and optimizing automated pouching production lines. As an APO Supervisor Trainee, you will work alongside experienced operations professionals in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Primary Purpose:This SkillBridge opportunity is designed for transitioning service members who are seeking a leadership role in logistics and material handling. The Material Handler Supervisor Trainee will work under the mentorship of experienced supervisors to learn how to coordinate and lead warehouse operations, including the receipt, storage, and distribution of materials. This is a hands-on training opportunity focused on developing supervisory and inventory management skills in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.Key Responsibilities:During this internship, the trainee will receive mentorship and gain practical experience in the following areas:Overseeing daily operations for receiving, storing, picking, and shipping of materials and finished goodsAssisting in the supervision and evaluation of warehouse and material handling teamsMonitoring inventory levels and collaborating with planning teams to avoid shortagesSupporting inventory cycle counting and reconciliation activitiesCoordinating with production supervisors to align material flow with manufacturing schedulesGenerating and interpreting inventory accuracy and performance reportsInteracting with cross-functional departments such as Quality, Purchasing, and ShippingIdentifying and reporting material shortages, quality concerns, or equipment issuesScheduling tasks and allocating resources to meet operational goalsUsing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP platforms for inventory transactionsLearning proper use and maintenance of material handling equipment, including forklifts and pallet jacksUnderstanding and applying safety standards, including OSHA and hazardous materials handling protocolsQualifications:Required:Must be within 180 days of separation or retirement from any US Armed Forces branchUpon separation, you will receive an Honorable Discharge Command (O-4 above) approval for participation in SkillBridge3–5 years of logistics, supply, or material handling experience in the military or private sector2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience in a team environmentFamiliarity with warehouse operations, inventory systems, or ERP software (e.g., GCSS-Army, SAP)Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skillsAbility to adapt to a fast-paced manufacturing or distribution environmentInterest in pursuing a post-military career in warehouse operations, logistics, or supply chain management
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Overseeing daily operations for receiving, storing, picking, and shipping of materials and finished goods
- Assisting in the supervision and evaluation of warehouse and material handling teams
- Monitoring inventory levels and collaborating with planning teams to avoid shortages
- Supporting inventory cycle counting and reconciliation activities
- Coordinating with production supervisors to align material flow with manufacturing schedules
- Generating and interpreting inventory accuracy and performance reports
- Interacting with cross-functional departments such as Quality, Purchasing, and Shipping
- Identifying and reporting material shortages, quality concerns, or equipment issues
- Scheduling tasks and allocating resources to meet operational goals
- Using Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP platforms for inventory transactions
- Learning proper use and maintenance of material handling equipment, including forklifts and pallet jacks
- Understanding and applying safety standards, including OSHA and hazardous materials handling protocols
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be within 180 days of separation or retirement from any US Armed Forces branch
- Upon separation, you will receive an Honorable Discharge
- Command (O-4 above) approval for participation in SkillBridge
- 3–5 years of logistics, supply, or material handling experience in the military or private sector
- 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience in a team environment
- Familiarity with warehouse operations, inventory systems, or ERP software (e.g., GCSS-Army, SAP)
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to adapt to a fast-paced manufacturing or distribution environment
- Interest in pursuing a post-military career in warehouse operations, logistics, or supply chain management
BENEFITS
- Hands-on training in supervisory and inventory management skills
- Mentorship from experienced supervisors
OTHER
Relevant Military Roles May Include:Army:91X Maintenance Supervisor92Y – Unit Supply Specialist89B – Ammunition Specialist88M – Motor Transport Operator (at leadership levels)Navy:EM – Electrician’s Mate (with LPO or CPO leadership experience)MM – Machinist’s MateLS – Logistics SpecialistAir Force:2S0X1 – Supply Management3E9X1 – Emergency Management2A6X6 – Aerospace Propulsion or 2A7X2 – Nondestructive InspectionMarines:1341 Engineer Equipment Mechanic2111 – Small Arms Repairer/Technician3043 – Supply Administration and Operations SpecialistAnd many more!