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Event Planner Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... trainees, and staff; and ensuring the efficient functioning of the Chair's office and broader ... Provide comprehensive event planning support and ensure smooth execution, process related ...

Manager Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $63K/yr

... ensure the accurate planning, routing, monitoring, and delivery of freight and loads. Key ... event locations when applicable Ability to work across multiple shifts including nights and/or ...

Manager Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$52K - $76K/yr

... ensure the accurate planning, routing, monitoring, and delivery of freight and loads. Key ... Willing to travel to account, customer, and company event locations when applicable * Ability to ...

Case Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

... planning, development of Revolution Workshop programs and events * Assist trainees in creating a budget while in training * Attend occasional meetings and events such as fundraisers and staff ...

Manager Trainee

Joliet, IL · On-site

$50K - $76K/yr

... ensure the accurate planning, routing, monitoring, and delivery of freight and loads. Key ... Willing to travel to account, customer, and company event locations when applicable * Ability to ...

Manager Trainee

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$50K - $76K/yr

... ensure the accurate planning, routing, monitoring, and delivery of freight and loads. Key ... Willing to travel to account, customer, and company event locations when applicable * Ability to ...

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Event Planner Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$31

$45

How much do event planner trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for event planner trainee in Chicago, IL is $31.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $36.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to gain experience as an event planner trainee?

To gain experience as an event planner trainee, seek internships or entry-level positions that offer hands-on involvement in event coordination. Developing skills in organization, communication, and familiarity with event management tools like project planning software can enhance your qualifications. Volunteering for local events or assisting experienced planners also provides practical experience and networking opportunities.

Is there a demand for event planner trainees?

There is steady demand for event planner trainees as the events industry continues to grow, requiring entry-level staff to assist with planning and coordination. Trainees often gain skills in organization, communication, and event management tools, which can lead to full-time positions in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event planner trainee, and why are they important?

To excel as an Event Planner Trainee, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of event planning concepts, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and scheduling systems is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help you work effectively with clients, vendors, and teams. These skills ensure smooth event execution, client satisfaction, and successful coordination in a dynamic environment.

How do you become an event planner trainee?

To become an event planner trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should develop skills in organization, communication, and time management. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in event planning or hospitality can also help, and some may pursue certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) to enhance their qualifications.

What is an event planner trainee?

Event Planner Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist experienced event planners in organizing and coordinating various types of events, such as corporate meetings, weddings, and conferences. Their responsibilities typically include helping with venue selection, managing vendor communications, assisting with event logistics, and supporting on-site event execution. This role is designed to provide hands-on training and experience in the event planning industry, helping trainees develop the skills needed to advance to more senior event planning positions.

What are some common challenges faced by event planner trainees during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Event Planner Trainees often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling last-minute changes, and coordinating with multiple vendors. It can also be overwhelming to balance client expectations while staying within budget and logistical limits. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, maintain clear communication with all parties, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Embracing flexibility and learning from each event will help you build confidence and proficiency in your role.

What is the difference between Event Planner Trainee vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent Planner TraineeEvent Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer coursework in event planning or hospitalityHigh school diploma; some roles may require certification or experience in event management
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, assisting experienced planners, often in office or event venuesActive involvement in planning, coordinating, and executing events, often on-site at event locations
Employer & Industry UsageInternships, entry-level positions in event planning companies, hotels, or venuesFull-time roles in event planning companies, corporate events, weddings, and conferences

The main difference is that an Event Planner Trainee is in a learning or apprenticeship phase, gaining skills under supervision, while an Event Coordinator is a more experienced professional responsible for managing and executing events independently.

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Event Planner Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Event Planner Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Event Planner Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,245 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

2027 US Operations Trainee Progam

Kraft Heinz Company

Chicago, IL • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 438 rated food and drinks producers


Job description


The Kraft Heinz Operations Trainee Program is designed to grow the future leaders of Kraft Heinz. This program is for high-performing, ambitious, and creative individuals who are ready to lead the future of food and beverage. Throughout the program, Trainees will hone their understanding of our business and industry, collaborate across the business to grow our iconic brands, and learn how to build their own legacy here at Kraft Heinz. The Operations Internship program supports our non-manufacturing operations functions across US supply chain, quality and procurement.
What's on the Menu for the Trainee Program?
The Kraft Heinz Trainee Program is a ten-month leadership development program that includes:
  • Two-to-four weeks of immersive onboarding to learn the business from end-to-end, build connections with their cohort, and prepare to drive impact throughout the program,
  • Two 4-month project rotations to bring creative solutions across the business,
  • One week of leadership development rooted in our WIN leadership principles,
  • One week of celebration and professional development to support the transition out of the trainee program and into full-time role,
  • Placement into a full-time role upon the completion of the program to continue developing as a leader and growing a robust career at Kraft Heinz.

Throughout the program, Trainees can also expect regular opportunities to meet with our CEO, North America President, Chief People Officer, and other senior executives; mentorship from previous trainees and business leadership; collaboration with Trainees from other countries, including UK, Netherlands, and Brazil; and curated learning experiences to help with grow as leaders and as cultural ambassadors of Kraft Heinz.
Our Trainee program will kick off July 12th 2027.
What Operations Trainees Work On?
Operations Trainees will spend their program in one of the teams noted below, partnering to identify opportunities and deliver improvement projects that strengthen how we operate-enhancing ways of working, core processes, digital evolution, commercialization and supply chain performance. Trainees typically own a defined project scope, collaborate cross-functionally, and share results through regular updates and an end-of-program presentation.
Our Operations Trainees may be placed any of the following teams:*
  • US Supply Chain
  • Logistics
  • Planning - Demand, Supply and Materials Planning
  • Digital Supply Chain
  • Zone Technical Excellence (ZTE) - Engineering, Continuous Improvement & Digital Manufacturing
  • Commercialization
  • Environment Health and Safety (EHS)
  • Procurement
  • Quality

*Opportunities for our marketing, human resources, finance, sales, manufacturing and research & development facilities are also available at select locations, please visit our early careers site, choose the role most aligned with your goals and submit a single application.
Recipe for Success
We are looking for candidates who...
  • Are pursuing a Bachelors degree with anticipated graduation between November 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027
  • Are innovative thinkers and problem solvers
  • Choose greatness by challenging the status quo
  • Take leadership opportunities to make an impact
  • Have a passion for our values and the future of our brands
  • Are able to lead through challenges
  • Take complex concepts and look for ways to simplify

New Hire Base Salary:
  • $80,000 USD Annually

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Our Values
Our Trainees are expected to live out the Kraft Heinz values as cultural champions and future leaders at the organization. At Kraft Heinz, our values are:
• We are consumer obsessed
• We dare to do better every day
• We champion great people
• We demand diversity
• We do the right thing
• We own it
The Recruitment Process
Internship program applications are accepted through October, 2nd 2026.
• Step 1: Application and Games-Based Assessment
• Step 2: Virtual Interviews with Business Leaders
• Step 3: Final On-Site Interview Day at our Chicago Headquarters
Where Will Your Journey Take You?
Trainees on the Supply Chain & Procurement track will be based in Chicago, IL. All Trainees will complete one of their project rotations at a field location (i.e. sales office, manufacturing plant, research and development facility); with the exception of sales trainees. Sales trainees will complete 2 rotations in the field at our sales offices. Housing is provided to Trainees when they are on their field project rotation
Final Job Placement Locations*
  • Supply Chain & Procurement roles: Final placement in Chicago, IL, - with availability at our manufacturing plants.

* Upon completion of the trainee program, you will have an opportunity to rank your preferences, final placement will be based on business need and your interests.
About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We're on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. A consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress as we drive innovation across every part of our company.
Around the world, our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We also believe in being good humans, who are working to improve our company, communities, and planet. We're proud of where we've been - and even more thrilled about where we're headed - as we nourish the world and lead the future of food.
Why Us
We grow our people to grow our business. We champion great people who bring ambition, curiosity, and high performance to the table as the guardians of our beloved and nostalgic brands. Good isn't good enough. We choose greatness every day by challenging the ordinary and making bold decisions. All while celebrating our wins - and our failures - as we work together to lead the future of food.
Challenging the status quo takes talent. We invest in your purpose and potential by developing skills and nurturing strengths that leave a legacy on our business and a lasting impact on your career. Because great people make great companies, and we're growing something great here at Kraft Heinz.
Office Collaboration & Hybrid Work Environment
We believe our office environment fuels our collaboration, connection & community as an organization and allows our employees to grow toward greatness. We also believe providing a more flexible and agile model is essential in today's workplace. A majority of our office based employees will be able to work remotely for up to two days each week. Some jobs may be required to be performed fully in office depending on the role's responsibilities and requirements.
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NATAI@kraftheinz.com
Location(s)
Chicago/Aon Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes.

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