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Controller Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

IFG Companies

Underwriting Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

S. The Trainee follows a structured on-the-job program that combines formal curriculum with real ... Physical demands are considered those of a climate-controlled office environment with minimal ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Crete, IL · On-site

$30/hr

Understand and maintain plant processes through computer-controlled equipment. * A team player able ... Trainees hired into this position are required to have a valid U.S. driver's license and must ...

7-ELEVEN

Area Leader (Manager) Trainee

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$43K - $91K/yr

Area Leader Trainee - Retail Sales Are you looking for an exciting fast-paced work environment ... Implementing merchandising programs, controlling cash and inventory, motivating and teambuilding ...

New

SpecialtyRx

Pharmacy Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Experience working in a Controlled Drugs (Narcotics) room is a plus. * Maintain floor stock ... Pharmacy Technician Trainees must be enrolled in a PTCB program to be eligible. * Previous pharmacy ...

HealthLinc

Clinical Nurse Educator (51973)

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$33.50 - $45.50/hr

Skills Coach for Medical Assistant Trainees * Prepares lesson plans and executes training in accordance with guidelines. * Guides skills practice in controlled skills lab. * Provides guidance to MA ...

New

HealthLinc

Clinical Nurse Educator (51973)

Valparaiso, IN

$33.50 - $45.50/hr

Skills Coach for Medical Assistant Trainees * Prepares lesson plans and executes training in accordance with guidelines. * Guides skills practice in controlled skills lab. * Provides guidance to MA ...

New

LRES Corporation

Senior Biostatistician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $100/hr

... trainees. Statistical Expertise * Survival analysis * Hierarchical and mixed-effects models ... Demonstrated ability to develop well-documented, reproducible, and quality-controlled statistical ...

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Controller Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do controller trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for controller trainee in Chicago, IL is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controller trainee?

A Controller Trainee is an entry-level professional who is training to become a financial controller within an organization. This role typically involves learning about financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and compliance. Controller Trainees work closely with senior accountants and controllers to understand the financial operations of a business. Their responsibilities may include assisting with financial statements, analyzing financial data, and participating in audits. The position is designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to prepare the trainee for a future controller role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controller trainee?

To thrive as a Controller Trainee, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial analysis, and a relevant degree such as accounting, finance, or business administration. Familiarity with financial software like SAP, QuickBooks, or Oracle, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel, is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help you interpret financial data and collaborate effectively with teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate financial reporting, supporting business decisions, and preparing for advanced roles in financial management.

What are some common challenges faced by controller trainees when transitioning from academic studies to a professional finance environment?

Controller Trainees often find the shift from academic theory to real-world financial operations both exciting and challenging. Adapting to fast-paced monthly close cycles, learning company-specific accounting systems, and communicating effectively with cross-functional teams are some typical hurdles. Trainees must quickly develop practical skills in financial analysis, compliance, and reporting while juggling multiple deadlines. However, support from experienced mentors and collaborative team settings helps ease the transition and fosters rapid professional growth.

What is the difference between Controller Trainee vs Accounting Intern?

AspectController TraineeAccounting Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in accounting, finance, or related fieldUsually students or recent graduates in accounting or finance programs
Work EnvironmentProfessional office setting, often in corporate finance departmentsInternship environment, often in accounting or finance departments of companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies training future controllers or finance managersCommonly used by firms offering entry-level internship opportunities

The Controller Trainee role is designed for individuals pursuing a career in finance or accounting, often involving training in financial management and reporting. An Accounting Intern typically gains practical experience through internships, focusing on basic accounting tasks. While both roles involve finance and accounting, Controller Trainees are usually on a career development path, whereas Accounting Interns are gaining initial industry exposure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controller jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Controller jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Controller Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controller Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,352 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Underwriting Trainee

IFG Companies

Chicago, IL • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Underwriter Trainee ("Trainee") participates in the commercial underwriting trainee program of IFG Companies ("Companies"), building foundational skills in technical underwriting, sales and professional development while gaining direct exposure to wholesale insurance brokers across the U.S.  The Trainee follows a structured on-the-job program that combines formal curriculum with real-world application across key lines of coverage, including General Liability, Excess Liability and Inland Marine.  This opportunity is suited for recent graduates and early career professionals with an interest in commercial insurance underwriting and a commitment to professional development. 

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING

  • Completing a structured underwriting curriculum covering GL, Excess and IM, including self-study modules, facilitated training sessions, case studies and real-world application exercises. 
  • Attending virtual and in-person training sessions and satisfactorily completing progressively challenging underwriting assignments, case studies and gated assessments throughout the program. 
  • Coordinating with Companies’ mentors for structured on-the-job exposure, gaining hands-on experience in account management, submission review and risk assessment.
  • Developing key knowledge benchmarks in underwriting principles, risk assessment, pricing and strategic relationship management with wholesale insurance brokers.
  • Supporting the Companies’ underwriters in developing insurance solutions for a wide range of small and middle market clients.
  • Participating in regular coaching and mentor check-ins to track progress, address knowledge gaps and prepare for transition into a full production underwriting role.
  • Performing other duties, as requested.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Meticulous and disciplined attention to detail, with a commitment to accuracy in all underwriting work.
  • Strong academic performance and demonstrated intellectual curiosity.
  • Consistent work ethic and reliability in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Enthusiastic and passionate about the insurance industry, with a genuine interest in commercial underwriting. 
  • Strong interpersonal skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to build rapport with brokers, mentors, and colleagues.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey underwriting rationale clearly and professionally.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and apply sound judgment to underwriting decisions.
  • Humility and the ability to receive constructive feedback, adapting quickly to coaching and mentorship.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and competing deadlines, functioning with increasing independence as the program progresses.
  • Collaborative, team-oriented mindset, with the ability to work effectively across departments and with external broker partners.
  • Excellent computer skills (e.g. Excel, Word, SharePoint) and the ability and willingness to learn the Companies’ proprietary systems. 

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATIONS

  • Required: A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college/university, with a major or coursework in insurance, risk management, economics, actuarial science, or related fields.
  • Required: Proficiency with Microsoft applications such as Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Copilot and the ability to learn other business applications.
  • Required: Excellent written an verbal English communication skills. 
  • Preferred: Industry-related summer internship or work experience. 
  • Preferred: Demonstrated leadership, teamwork and a positive attitude toward learning through academic, extracurricular or work experiences. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Position is hybrid and requires the ability and the willingness to work in an IFG Companies office at least three (3) days per week if residing within one-hour commuting distance.
  • Physical demands are considered those of a climate-controlled office environment with minimal physical exertion.
  • Position requires prolonged sitting, extensive utilization of computers and interactions with others in person and via phone.
  • Position requires the ability and the willingness to travel when required to meet business needs.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $65,000 to $75,000. Additionally, the position may be eligible to earn incentive compensation.

IFG Companies offers competitive compensation and benefits, currently including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, vacation and other paid time off.

WHY IFG COMPANIES

Founded in 1985, IFG Companies is one of the oldest privately held insurance groups in the United States. It combines a specialty-carrier focus with long-term stability and thinking, while promoting a culture of underwriting rigor, collaboration, strategic thinking, superior technology and strong producer partnerships.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

IFG Companies is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.