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Operations Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

kirbyrisk

Distribution Trainee - IL

Effingham, IL

Operations Management Trainee Kirby Risk is seeking r ecent college graduates for operations management trainee roles , focusing on branch operations. This extensive 1-year development program will ...

kirbyrisk

Distribution Trainee - IL

Champaign, IL · On-site

Operations Management Trainee Kirby Risk is seeking r ecent college graduates for operations management trainee roles , focusing on branch operations. This extensive 1-year development program will ...

Kirby Risk

Distribution Trainee - IL

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$48K/yr

Operations Management Trainee Kirby Risk is seeking r ecent college graduates for operations management trainee roles , focusing on branch operations. This extensive 1-year development program will ...

Penske

Sales and Operations Management Trainee

Elgin, IL · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

Penske

Sales and Operations Management Trainee

IL · On-site

$25/hr

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 ...

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All JobsOperations JobsOperations Trainee JobsOperations Trainee Jobs in Illinois

Operations Trainee information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$21

$28

How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Illinois is $21.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operations Trainee vs Operations Associate?

AspectOperations TraineeOperations Associate
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in business, logistics, or related field; entry-levelSimilar educational background; may require some experience or internship
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasks, learning-focusedMore independent responsibilities, daily operational tasks
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, and service industries for onboardingStandard role in operations departments, often a step after trainee

In summary, an Operations Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning and training, while an Operations Associate typically handles more routine operational tasks with some independence. Both roles are common in logistics, manufacturing, and service sectors, with the trainee position serving as a stepping stone to the associate level.

What is an operational trainee?

An operations trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting the daily functions of a company's operations department. The role typically involves gaining knowledge of processes, assisting with tasks, and developing skills in areas such as logistics, supply chain, or process management, often under supervision and with training programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Trainee, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, strong analytical abilities, and a foundational understanding of business operations or supply chain management. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, spreadsheets, and data analysis tools is often required, and internships or certifications like Six Sigma can be advantageous. Strong soft skills such as communication, attention to detail, and adaptability help trainees collaborate effectively and respond to dynamic operational challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for learning quickly, driving process improvements, and supporting the efficiency and success of the organization.

What is an Operations Trainee?

An Operations Trainee is an entry-level professional who undergoes training in a company’s operations department to learn essential business processes and procedures. The role typically involves rotational assignments in various operational areas, such as logistics, supply chain, production, and quality control. Operations Trainees gain hands-on experience and develop skills needed for advancement into more specialized or managerial roles within the organization. The position is ideal for recent graduates or individuals looking to start a career in operations management.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Operations trainees typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized professionals, or business owners. High-paying jobs often require extensive experience, advanced skills, or ownership of successful businesses. For most roles, reaching this level involves significant career progression and performance-based incentives.

What is the role of operations trainee?

An operations trainee is an entry-level employee responsible for supporting daily business functions, learning operational processes, and assisting with tasks such as data entry, process improvement, and coordination. They often work under supervision to develop skills in logistics, supply chain, or administrative functions and may use tools like ERP systems or spreadsheets.

What kinds of projects or tasks can an Operations Trainee expect to handle during their first year?

As an Operations Trainee, you can expect to rotate through different departments, assisting with process improvement initiatives, data analysis, and day-to-day operational support. Typical tasks include monitoring workflow efficiency, preparing reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve bottlenecks. You'll likely shadow experienced staff, gradually taking on more responsibility as you gain familiarity with company systems and procedures. This hands-on exposure is designed to build a strong foundation for future advancement within operations management.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Operations trainees typically do not earn $10,000 a month without significant experience or advancement. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, but they usually require strong skills, networking, and sometimes certifications. Most jobs with such salaries are either in specialized fields or involve business ownership rather than entry-level trainee positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Operations jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operations Trainee jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Operations Trainee job openings:
Operations Trainee jobs near you
SkillBridge Operations Trainee - Midwest Region

SkillBridge Operations Trainee - Midwest Region

Southern Shingles

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

SRS Distribution | Heritage Family of Companies

Proud Partner of the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program

SRS Distribution, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Home Depot, is honored to be an authorized partner of the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program. This opportunity is designed for service members with 180 days or fewer remaining before discharge and offers practical, industry-relevant training to support a successful transition into civilian careers.

With coast-to-coast coverage, over 750+ locations in 47 states, SRS Distribution is one of the nation's leading and fastest-growing distributors of building materials, landscape products, and pool & spa supplies.

Program Length: 16 Weeks

Location: On-Site, Based at Branch Locations

Midwest Region: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, North Dakota, Ohio, and South Dakota.

What You'll Gain:

Gain hands-on exposure to all aspects of our business-including warehouse operations, sales, finance, safety, supply chain, and human resources. You'll learn our business model, company culture, and core values while building on your existing skills through structured, on-the-job training to support a smooth transition into a civilian career.

Post-Program Career Paths:
Operations Manager
Operations Coordinator
Customer Service Representative
Inside Sales Representative

Program Criteria:
180 days or fewer remaining on active duty at the time of program start
Approval from Chain of Command
Pay Grade E5 and above

Qualifications:
Self-motivated, creative, results-driven, solution-oriented, direct, and determined to succeed
Demonstrated leadership and a strong work ethic
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
Team-oriented with strong collaboration skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
Proficient in computer systems with strong organizational, strategic thinking, and time management skills

Physical Requirements:
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions
Exposure to high noise levels in the work environment
Ability to properly and repeatedly lift up to 50-100 lbs on a daily basis
Ability to work on sloped roofs of varying pitch and height

Not the right job for you? Register your details at the 'Introduce Yourself' link (top right) and we'll be in touch!As an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer SRS Distribution Inc., including all its subsidiaries, provides job opportunities to qualified individuals without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, uniform service, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local EEO laws. If you are an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require a reasonable accommodation in applying for any posted position, please contact Human Resources at US: 855.556.3221, or by email to: HR@Help.SRSDistribution.com with the nature of your accommodation request and include the Business name, location and title of the job opening. Please allow one (1) business day for a reply. All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screen, as permitted by law.Competitive weekly/bi-weekly pay, discretionary bonuses, 401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid time off (vacation, sick, volunteer, holidays, birthday, floating), medical/dental/vision, flexible spending accounts, company-paid life and short-term disability, plus optional long-term disability, and additional life insurance.

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