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Operations Trainee Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

84 Lumber Company

Entry Level Manager Trainee

Depew, NY · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

This role offers hands-on training across all aspects of store operations with the goal of ... Manager Trainees must complete the learning plan and course of study as outlined within the ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Tonawanda, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Gowanda, NY · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Buffalo, NY · On-site

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Amherst, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Lackawanna, NY · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Depew, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

East Aurora, NY · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Depew, NY · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Alden, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Chaffee, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Hamburg, NY · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

Valu Home Centers Inc

Management Trainee

Buffalo, NY

$44K - $46K/yr

Description Retail Management Trainee Join our team as a leader, a DIY enthusiast, and a champion ... Oversee daily operations, maintain product inventory, and ensure the store meets company ...

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All JobsOperations JobsOperations Trainee JobsOperations Trainee Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Operations Trainee information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$12

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$28

How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Buffalo, NY is $21.76, 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 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 Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Operations jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Operations Trainee jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Operations Trainee job openings:

Operations Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Trainee job openings in Buffalo, NY 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 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,263 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

SkillBridge Operations Trainee - Northeast Region

Buffalo, NY • On-site

Southern Shingles
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Southern Shinglesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 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

Northeast Region: New Jersey, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Maine.

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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