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Operations Trainee Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Ryder

Operations Management Trainee

Waukesha, WI

Summary The Operations Management Trainee will support the shop management process and assist in cost savings, customer retention, and metric-based initiatives. This requires the Management Trainee ...

Ryder

Operations Manager Trainee

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$50K/yr

Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:30pm Salary - Paid Weekly Bachelor's Degree Required The Operations Management Trainee (OMT) is an 18 month structured and comprehensive training program to develop ...

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Operations Trainee information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$22

$30

How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Wisconsin is $22.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operations trainee roles typically offer entry-level salaries that are lower compared to experienced management or specialized positions. Salary levels depend on the industry, location, and company size, with higher pay generally available as one gains skills and experience in operational management, logistics, or supply chain functions.

What are 5 careers in operations?

Operations trainees often pursue careers such as operations manager, supply chain analyst, logistics coordinator, production supervisor, and quality assurance specialist. These roles involve managing processes, optimizing efficiency, and ensuring smooth workflow within organizations, often requiring skills in project management and familiarity with tools like ERP systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operations jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Operations jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Operations Trainee jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Operations Trainee job openings:

Operations Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Trainee job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,164 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Operations Management Trainee

Alter Trading Corp

Monroe, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Alter Trading rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Ready to Lead in Metal Recycling? 

Alter Trading’s hands-on Management Trainee Program is your fast track to running a department, a facility or in a sales function at one of the nation’s leading scrap metal recyclers. Over the course of 8–12 months, you’ll rotate not only through operations, logistics, sales, safety, and leadership functions, but also across multiple facilities - gaining the broad perspective, skills, and real-world exposure needed to run a site or lead a functional team. This program is designed as a multi-location rotation across Alter's locations in multiple cities and states. The city where this posting is listed may not be the location where the training will occur.  


What You’ll Do

  • Learn the ins and outs of metal recycling—from the scale to the sale.
  • Rotate through Operations, Commercial Sales, Inventory, Safety, and Equipment Maintenance.
  • Support real production, scheduling, and transportation efforts.
  • Shadow and learn from seasoned yard managers.
  • Gain exposure to customer relationships, negotiations, and pricing.
  • Learn to manage people, processes, and profits.
  • Prepare to lead your own team or facility upon program completion.
  • Rotate through various Alter locations to gain further exposure.

What We’re Looking For

  • Associate's, Bachelor’s degree (preferred majors: Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Industrial Tech) or 5+ years of relevant experience.
  • Strong communication, leadership potential, and business math skills.
  • Willingness to relocate and work hands-on in a heavy industrial environment.
  • Problem-solvers who are curious, adaptable, and ready to lead.
  • Ability to relocate required. Assistance provided. 

Program Perks

  • Competitive pay and benefits (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, PTO).
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Relocation and temporary housing assistance, if eligible.
  • Ongoing coaching, mentoring, and advancement opportunities.

  About Alter Trading


Founded in 1898, Alter Trading Corporation is a family-owned, fifth-generation company and one of the nation’s leading scrap metal recycling firms. With more than 70 facilities across the Midwest and Southern U.S., we are committed to environmental sustainability, operational excellence, and developing leaders from within.


Apply Today!

Ready to lead and grow with a company that values safety, teamwork, and operational excellence? Click Apply Now to start your journey with Alter Trading Corporation as a Management Trainee.

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