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Leader Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Develop Leadership skills * Develop Sales knowledge Qualifications * Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college * Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center * Must be ...

Develop Leadership skills * Develop Sales knowledge Qualifications * Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college * Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center * Must be ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Endless Career Advancement Opportunities Menards success relies on our promote-from-within culture that is filled with home-grown leaders that have completed the Manager Trainee program. Upon ...

Showing results 21-40

Leader Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$44.8K

$65.4K

How much do leader trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for leader trainee in Chicago, IL is $44,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a leader trainee?

Leader Trainees are individuals who are in a program or position designed to develop their leadership skills and prepare them for future management or supervisory roles within an organization. They typically participate in structured training, mentorship, and hands-on work experiences to learn about company operations, team management, and strategic decision-making. The goal of a Leader Trainee program is to equip candidates with the knowledge and abilities needed to lead teams effectively and advance into higher-level positions.

What is the difference between Leader Trainee vs Team Leader?

AspectLeader TraineeTeam Leader
Required CredentialsTypically entry-level, may require a diploma or relevant certificationUsually requires experience and leadership certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasks, developmental focusSupervising team members, managing daily operations
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in retail, hospitality, and service sectorsFound across various industries including retail, manufacturing, and services

The main difference between a Leader Trainee and a Team Leader is that a Leader Trainee is in a developmental phase, focusing on learning leadership skills, while a Team Leader is responsible for managing a team and overseeing daily operations. Leader Trainees are often in training programs, whereas Team Leaders have already gained experience and hold leadership responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by leader trainees during the transition into a leadership role?

Leader Trainees often encounter challenges such as balancing hands-on responsibilities with developing leadership skills, adapting to new expectations, and navigating team dynamics. Many trainees find it demanding to shift from being a peer to leading former colleagues, as it requires establishing authority while maintaining positive relationships. Additionally, learning to delegate effectively and manage time across multiple projects can be a significant adjustment. Support from mentors and structured training programs can help ease this transition and build confidence.

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

To thrive as a Leader Trainee, you need strong problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and a relevant educational background, often a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools, Microsoft Office Suite, and sometimes basic data analysis software is typically required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills that help Leader Trainees excel. These qualities are crucial for developing effective leadership capabilities, managing teams, and successfully transitioning into managerial roles.

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

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

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

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

Sales Management Trainee

Dayton Freight

Crest Hill, IL • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Dayton Freight rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 362 rated logistics


Job description

Overview
The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to become part of a team, expand upon their experience, actively participate in all areas of Dayton Freight's operations, as well as gain knowledge of our Company, culture, and the Transportation Industry. Additionally, the program educates each individual on future-based leadership skills so that upon completion of the 24-weeks, they are confident and competent to take on a sales position within our Company.
Responsibilities
  • Learn the LTL Industry
  • Gain experience in the Operation
  • Develop Leadership skills
  • Develop Sales knowledge

Qualifications
  • Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
  • Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center
  • Must be willing to work a rotation of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift (during training)

Benefits
  • Stable and growing organization
  • Fast-paced work environment
  • Internal advancement opportunities
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Modern facilities and technology
  • Unique training opportunity
  • Travel
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, 401(k), Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days

Starting Pay: $60,000 per year. This amount reflects total compensation (base + bonus).
Pay does vary depending on relevant industry experience.
Transportation, LTL, Freight, Management, Leadership, management training, trainee, training, servant leadership, culture, great company, college, college degree, supervisor, manager supervising, supervisor training, development, team development, Manager Training, manager trainee, manager, dock, supervisor, supervising, operations, degree

What Dayton Freight employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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