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Operations Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

Overview The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... Gain experience in the Operation * Develop Leadership skills * Develop Sales knowledge ...

Land O'Frost

Management Trainee

Lansing, IL

Summary The Land O'Frost Management Trainee Program is designed for individuals ready to build a ... You won't just learn how our operations work; you'll gain real-world experience, make meaningful ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$25/hr

Overview SwiftX is seeking highly motivated and ambitious Management Trainees to join our Operations Leadership Program. This one-year rotational development program is designed to cultivate future ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Schiller Park, IL

$25/hr

Overview SwiftX is seeking highly motivated and ambitious Management Trainees to join our Operations Leadership Program. This one-year rotational development program is designed to cultivate future ...

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All JobsOperations Trainee JobsOperations Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operations Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations 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 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operations Trainee jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operations Trainee job openings:
Operations Trainee jobs near you
Sales and Operations Management Trainee

Sales and Operations Management Trainee

Penske

Franklin Park, IL • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

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

$25 per hour

Work Location: 3900 Mannheim Rd, Franklin Park, IL 60131 
 
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.

 
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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