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Department Manager Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Step in during RSR absences to manage established routes, upholding UniFirst's high standards of ... Contribute to Service Department Success: Play a vital role in delivering outstanding service ...

Step in during RSR absences to manage established routes, upholding UniFirst's high standards of ... Meet all Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements, including a physical exam. * Educational ...

Step in during RSR absences to manage established routes, upholding UniFirst's high standards of ... Contribute to Service Department Success: Play a vital role in delivering outstanding service ...

Step in during RSR absences to manage established routes, upholding UniFirst's high standards of ... Contribute to Service Department Success: Play a vital role in delivering outstanding service ...

May rotate through various departments observing, learning and performing responsibilities in order ... Accompanies Outside Sales Reps or Sales Manager on customer calls to become familiar with effective ...

May rotate through various departments observing, learning and performing responsibilities in order ... Accompanies Outside Sales Reps or Sales Manager on customer calls to become familiar with effective ...

Retail Leadership Trainee

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Works directly with the Store Manager and Leadership Team to develop sales, recruit new Teammates ... Create and develop results in your department and balance all DM actions within your segment as ...

Showing results 41-60

Department Manager Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$24.8K

$42.3K

$61.7K

How much do department manager trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for department manager trainee in Raleigh, NC is $42,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,100.00 and $49,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a department manager trainee?

A Department Manager Trainee is an entry-level management position designed to prepare individuals to lead a specific department within a company, such as retail, grocery, or hospitality. Trainees participate in a structured training program where they learn about daily operations, staff supervision, inventory management, customer service, and company policies. The goal is to develop the skills necessary to eventually manage a department independently. This role typically combines hands-on experience with formal instruction, and successful completion often leads to a promotion to Department Manager.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a department manager trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Department Manager Trainee, you need strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills, typically supported by a high school diploma or bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with inventory management systems, point-of-sale (POS) software, and basic Microsoft Office applications is often required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and teamwork abilities help trainees excel in dynamic retail environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently managing store operations, leading staff, and delivering exceptional customer service.

What are some common challenges faced by department manager trainees during the transition to a leadership role?

Department Manager Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, balancing hands-on operational tasks with developing team leadership skills, and learning to communicate effectively with both staff and upper management. Navigating these responsibilities requires strong time management and the ability to quickly absorb company policies and procedures. However, most employers provide structured training, mentorship, and regular feedback to help trainees build confidence and succeed in their transition to a full department manager role.

What is the difference between Department Manager Trainee vs Department Supervisor?

AspectDepartment Manager TraineeDepartment Supervisor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer associate's degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; relevant experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining in retail or service settings, often in stores or outletsOverseeing daily operations within a department, managing staff
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in retail, hospitality, and service industriesCommon in retail, grocery stores, and large service organizations
Comparison FocusTraining for future management rolesSupervising current staff and operations

The Department Manager Trainee is typically an entry-level role focused on training and development for future management positions, whereas a Department Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily operations and staff within a department. Both roles are common in retail and service industries, but the trainee position emphasizes learning and growth, while the supervisor role emphasizes immediate operational management.

Does a department manager trainee get paid?

Yes, a department manager trainee typically receives a salary or hourly wage during their training period. Compensation varies by company but is generally provided to support the trainee while they develop management skills and learn store operations or departmental responsibilities.

Route Trainee - UniFirst

Durham, NC • On-site

Unifirst
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


UniFirst rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At UniFirst, we Always Deliver-for our customers and our people. Join us as a Route Trainee (RT) and take the first step toward a rewarding career in service and customer care. As an RT, you'll receive hands-on training through our robust, blended learning programs while supporting daily operations and preparing to transition into a full-time Route Service Representative (RSR) role. You'll assist with deliveries, service, and route coverage while learning multiple customer accounts. This is a dynamic opportunity ideal for someone eager to grow, customer-focused, and ready to build a strong foundation in a field-based service role.

What Your Role Entails:

       Participate in UniFirst's Service Certificate Program: Engage in a hands-on training program designed to prepare you for a Route Service Representative (RSR) role.

       Support Daily Operations: Assist our service team by loading and unloading route trucks, ensuring each day begins with accuracy and efficiency.

       Deliver Consistent, Reliable Service: Transport clean garments and products to customers and return soiled items, providing dependable and timely service with every stop.

       Provide Route Coverage When Needed: Step in during RSR absences to manage established routes, upholding UniFirst's high standards of service and professionalism.

 Represent UniFirst on the Road: Operate a company walk-in truck along designated routes, delivering exceptional service, prioritizing safety at all times, and reinforcing strong customer relationships.

       Engage in a Physically Active Role: Work across both indoor and outdoor environments that require energy, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety.

       Contribute to Service Department Success: Play a vital role in delivering outstanding service, building customer relationships, and driving the success of our Service Department.

       Maintain a Predictable Schedule: Enjoy consistent Monday-Friday daytime schedule with no nights or weekends.

Core Competencies:

  • Customer-Centric Mindset: You go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service, building trust and loyalty with every interaction. You understand that the customer experience is at the heart of everything we do.
  • Time Management & Route Efficiency: Ability to manage your time effectively to stay on schedule, make prompt deliveries, and complete tasks with precision. You understand how to balance urgency with quality service, ensuring each stop along your route is handled efficiently and professionally.
  • Dependability, Collaboration & Communication: You take pride in showing up on time, following through on your responsibilities, and representing UniFirst with professionalism and integrity. You work closely with teammates and leadership to ensure smooth daily operations, resolve issues quickly, and deliver great service. Your consistency and teamwork help drive success every day.

Why You'll Enjoy This Role:

  • Every day is different: Whether you're training, riding along, or covering a route, no two days look the same.
  • A path to career growth: This position is your gateway to a full-time commissioned Route Service Representative role.
  • Make a direct impact: You'll be out in the field supporting our customers face-to-face.

What You Bring to UniFirst

  • Driver's License & Safe Driving Record: Must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and reliable transportation.
  • DOT Compliance: Meet all Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements, including a physical exam.
  • Educational Requirements: High school diploma, GED, or military service required.
  •  Strong Customer Service Skills: Ability to work independently while maintaining a team-oriented mindset and providing excellent customer service.
  • Relevant Experience: Prior experience in customer service, route sales, or delivery, roles is a plus!
  • Tech-Savvy: Comfortable using and learning new technologies to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer experience.
  • Physical Stamina: Capable of lifting, carrying, and pushing up to 50 lbs., with the ability to remain on your feet for extended periods.

You Will Benefit From:

  • Competitive Compensation: Competitive wages, 401(k) with company match, profit sharing, health and life insurance, paid time off, employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, and more.
  • Training & Development: Formal training through our SCP program to set you up for success as an RSR
  • Career Development: Continuous training and growth opportunities
  • Company Culture: A supportive and inclusive workplace rooted in a strong sense of community
  • Stability & Work-Life Balance: Monday-Friday daytime schedule, no nights or weekends
  • Inclusive Culture: A diverse and inclusive work environment that values a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
     

Join UniFirst for a Rewarding Career

At UniFirst, you'll find opportunities for advancement in a supportive and diverse environment. If you're ready to take on a dynamic, customer-focused role with plenty of room for growth, we'd love to hear from you!

About UniFirst

UniFirst is an international leader in the $18 billion-dollar garment services industry. We currently employ over 16,000 team partners who serve 300,000 business customer locations throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe. We were included in the top 10 of Selling Power magazine's "Best Companies to Sell For" list and recognized on Forbes magazine's "Platinum 400 - Best Big Companies" list.

UniFirst is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or employment against any individual on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ancestry, religion, physical or mental disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, citizenship, or any other factor protected by anti-discrimination laws.


What UniFirst employees say

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About UniFirst

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The year was 1936 and Aldo Croatti had a vision: to serve the men and women who put in a hard day’s work. He founded a laundry business to clean clothes of factory workers and others in the heavy-soil business. With UniFirst, he created an entirely new concept: uniform rental services. This business concept gained popularity because it delivered on a key customer need: helping businesses work safer and smarter while presenting a better business image. Aldo’s vision spurred the growth of an entire industry. Since then, UniFirst has evolved into a leader in the uniform rental services industry. With headquarters located in Wilmington, MA, UniFirst operates 260-plus facilities throughout North and Central America and Europe. We serve over 300,000 customers and outfit over 2 million workers across a variety of industries—from automotive to transportation and warehousing, construction, and everything in between. We proudly serve nearly half of Fortune 500 companies and their hardworking employees.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Wilmington, MA, US

Year founded

1936