Swisher

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Program Type: DoD SkillBridge Internship

Eligibility: Active Duty Military Members (within 180 days of separation)

Duration: August - November 2025

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:

Support the daily operations of our automated pouching lines by assisting in the management of production, training personnel, maintaining equipment, and ensuring quality and efficiency standards are met. This is a learning-focused role designed to prepare you for a potential full-time leadership position post-transition.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in overseeing the daily operations of automated pouching equipment, ensuring efficient and continuous production.
• Support the training, mentoring, and supervision of production team members.
• Learn how to evaluate team performance and contribute to coaching for continuous improvement.
• Collaborate on identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Help ensure product quality through inspections, audits, and adherence to regulatory standards.
• Participate in maintenance planning and equipment troubleshooting to reduce downtime.
• Promote a safe working environment by supporting compliance with safety protocols and policies.
• Learn inventory tracking processes, including monitoring raw materials and finished goods.
• Assist with compiling and presenting production and quality performance metrics to leadership.
• Contribute to accurate data entry and documentation within manufacturing and inventory systems.
• Maintain clear, organized records for audits, maintenance, and operational reporting.

Qualifications:

Required:

• 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
• Demonstrated leadership and team coordination experience
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic familiarity with manufacturing systems
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Adaptability, reliability, and a willingness to learn

Preferred:

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma principles
• Technical or mechanical aptitude

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field (or equivalent military experience)

Relevant Military Roles May Include:

Army:

• 91X Maintenance Supervisor
• 92Y – Unit Supply Specialist
• 89B – Ammunition Specialist
• 88M – Motor Transport Operator (at leadership levels)

Navy:

• EM – Electrician’s Mate (with LPO or CPO leadership experience)
• MM – Machinist’s Mate
• LS – Logistics Specialist

Air Force:

• 2S0X1 – Supply Management
• 3E9X1 – Emergency Management
• 2A6X6 – Aerospace Propulsion or 2A7X2 – Nondestructive Inspection

Marines:

• 1341 Engineer Equipment Mechanic
• 2111 – Small Arms Repairer/Technician
• 3043 – Supply Administration and Operations Specialist

And many more!

Why Apply?

This SkillBridge position allows you to transition from active duty to civilian employment with confidence. You’ll receive mentorship, skill-building opportunities, and potential for full-time employment upon program completion.