Description
Supply Chain College Co-Op Program
Program Length: 3 months
Target Majors: Supply Chain, Operations, Industrial Engineering, Business Analytics, MIS
Systems Exposure: ERP (SAP), MRP, Excel, Power BI
Program Purpose
This rotational co-op program develops early-career talent by providing structured exposure to the full supply chain lifecycle. Students gain hands-on experience while learning how data, planning, and execution connect across functions.
Rotational Structure:
Master Data Management (Foundation)
- Product Lifecycle / new material setup process
- SAP setup / Item master, BOMs, routings, lead times
- Data accuracy and governance
- Impact of master data on planning and execution, and cross-functional coordination
Outcome: Students understand how data quality drives operational performance.
Forecasting & Demand Planning
- Forecast creation and maintenance
- Forecast accuracy and bias
- Demand variability analysis
- Support for demand review meetings
Outcome: Students understand how demand signals drive supply decisions.
Purchasing & Supplier Management
- Purchase requisitions and orders
- Lead times, MOQ, and supplier constraints
- Supplier performance tracking
- Shortage and expediting support
Outcome: Students gain insight into supplier risk and cost-service tradeoffs.
Production Planning & Scheduling
- MRP outputs and exception management
- Capacity planning and constraints
- Production schedules and adherence
- Coordination with manufacturing teams
Outcome: Students see how planning decisions translate to shop floor execution.
Capstone Experience
Throughout the program, students complete a capstone project focused on process improvement, data accuracy, or planning effectiveness. The project culminates in a presentation to leadership.
Program Benefits For Students
- End-to-end supply chain exposure
- Real ERP and planning experience
- Clear pathway to full-time roles
Potential Post-Co-Op Roles
Supply Chain Analyst • Buyer / Purchasing Analyst • Production Planner • Master Data Analyst • Operations Analyst
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zo?con®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
