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Operation Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

McLane Company

Driver Trainee - Glenwood

Glenwood, IL

$87K/yr

The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the developmental process of becoming a McLane Driver. Benefits you can count on: Extra board pays up $87,000 ...

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All JobsOperation JobsOperation Trainee JobsOperation Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operation Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do operation trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for operation trainee in Chicago, IL is $23.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $26.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operation trainee?

Operation Trainees are entry-level professionals who undergo training programs to learn about the daily operations and processes within a company, often in industries like banking, manufacturing, or logistics. Their primary role is to understand and assist with the workflow, management systems, and operational procedures of the organization. Typically, Operation Trainees rotate through various departments to gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and prepare for future roles in operations management. This position is ideal for recent graduates looking to start a career in operations and gain exposure to different aspects of a business.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operation trainee?

To thrive as an Operation Trainee, you generally need a bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and basic project management tools is often expected. Effective communication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully supporting operational processes, adapting to dynamic work environments, and advancing within the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by operation trainees during their initial months on the job?

Operation Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced workflows, learning complex operational procedures, and quickly becoming familiar with company-specific systems. Balancing hands-on tasks with ongoing training can be demanding, especially when managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. However, strong support from mentors and collaborating with experienced team members helps trainees build confidence and develop problem-solving skills essential for success in the operations field.

What is the difference between Operation Trainee vs Operations Assistant?

AspectOperation TraineeOperations Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer a degreeHigh school diploma; some roles may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, entry-level tasks, supervised settingsSupporting operational activities, assisting teams, administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, service industriesManufacturing, logistics, retail, service sectors
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level training roles in operationsSupport roles assisting operations teams

The main difference is that Operation Trainees are in training programs focusing on learning operational processes, while Operations Assistants support daily operational tasks. Operation Trainees are often in a learning phase, whereas Operations Assistants perform more routine support functions within the industry.

How to start a career in operation trainees?

To start a career as an operation trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring a bachelor's degree in business, logistics, or related fields. Gaining relevant skills such as communication, problem-solving, and familiarity with operational tools can improve prospects, and entry-level positions often require basic computer literacy and a willingness to learn on the job.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operations roles can offer competitive salaries, especially with experience and in larger organizations. Entry-level positions typically have moderate pay, but senior operations managers and specialists can earn higher wages, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

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

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

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

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

Operation Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operation Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,136 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Sales and Operations Management Trainee

Penske

Franklin Park, IL

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Exciting entry-level opportunity for those who have obtained their bachelor's degree!

$25 per hour

 
Position Summary:
Take charge. Think fast. Move forward. As a Sales and Operations Management Trainee in our fast-paced environment, you will use your hard-earned degree to run a business and quickly solve problems for our customers - who will depend on you to achieve success.

 
Penske will introduce you to our sales processes, leading-edge technology and winning company culture through ongoing training and mentoring to help cultivate the skills and expertise you need to succeed in all aspects of our business: sales, operations, finance, customer service, technology and more. You'll collaborate with a high-energy, driven team as you build a solid foundation in sales and operations. You'll enjoy flexible schedules, excellent benefits, associate incentives and discount programs. You'll be on the fast track to furthering your management career, with advancement opportunities at hundreds of our locations nationwide.

 
Major Responsibilities:
Develop consumer and commercial customer solutions to local and national accounts - including many of the Fortune 500.
Manage our large inventory of world class and nationally recognized vehicles, balancing fleet productivity, profitability and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced and dynamic workspace
Generate new business leads as well as foster existing customer relationships
Ensure complete customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.

Location: 3900 Mannheim Rd, Franklin Park, IL 60131 
About Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions
Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions is a premier global transportation provider that delivers essential and innovative transportation, logistics and technology services to help companies and people move forward. With headquarters in Reading, PA, Penske and its associates are driven by a dedication to excellence and a commitment to customer success. Visit Go Penske to learn more.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree required, preferred concentration in Business or Marketing
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
Internship or related work experience in a customer facing role preferred
Results oriented, attention to detail and good time management skills
A valid driver's license is required, as is the ability and willingness to drive our Penske vehicles, including a 26' box truck.
Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job. 
As this position requires driving Penske and customer vehicles, it is regulated by the DOT and requires a current driver qualification file to be maintained as required by the role. The driver qualification file includes: an annual motor vehicle records (MVR) check, a successfully completed DOT Physical, and Safety Performance History records request from prior employers in the last 3 years. Additionally, CDL holders will have a DOT Drug Screening within 30 days of start and subject to a FMCSA Clearinghouse review.
Willingness to travel as necessary within the district (customers yards, close geographical area and training sites), work the required schedule, work at the specific location required, complete Penske employment application, submit to a background investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are required.

 
This position is regulated by the Department of Transportation or designated as safety sensitive by the company, and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner is required.  Associates must have the ability to accept responsibility for their own safety, as well as the safety of others.

 
Physical Requirements:
-The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
-The associate will be required to: read; communicate verbally and/or in written form; remember and analyze certain information; and remember and understand certain instructions or guidelines.
-While performing the duties of this job, the associate may be required to stand, walk, and sit.  The associate is frequently required to use hands to touch, handle, and feel, and to reach with hands and arms.  The associate must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25lbs/12kg.
-Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
 
Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits: Penske Offers competitive benefits and they can be viewed here. Benefits - Penske
 
 

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