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Operations Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Gain experience in the Operation * Develop Leadership skills Qualifications * Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college * Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Gain experience in the Operation * Develop Leadership skills Qualifications * Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college * Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... Gain experience in the Operation * Develop Leadership skills * Must possess a valid Bachelor ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... Gain experience in the Operation * Develop Leadership skills * Must possess a valid Bachelor ...

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All JobsOperations 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 Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Chicago, IL is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.02 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 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
Infographic showing various Operations Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% 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 $48,174 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Sales Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL

Dayton Freight
Transportation and Warehousing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Dayton Freightexternal

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Dayton Freight rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to become part of a team, expand upon their experience, actively participate in all areas of Dayton Freight's operations, as well as gain knowledge of our Company, culture, and the Transportation Industry. Additionally, the program educates each individual on future-based leadership skills so that upon completion of the 24-weeks, they are confident and competent to take on a sales position within our Company.


  • Learn the LTL Industry
  • Gain experience in the Operation
  • Develop Leadership skills
  • Develop Sales knowledge

  • Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
  • Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center
  • Must be willing to work a rotation of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift (during training)

  • Stable and growing organization
  • Fast-paced work environment
  • Internal advancement opportunities
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Modern facilities and technology
  • Unique training opportunity
  • Travel
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, 401(k), Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days

Starting Pay: $60,000 per year.  This amount reflects total compensation (base + bonus). 

Pay does vary depending on relevant industry experience.

Transportation, LTL, Freight, Management, Leadership, management training, trainee, training, servant leadership, culture, great company, college, college degree, supervisor, manager supervising, supervisor training, development, team development, Manager Training, manager trainee, manager, dock, supervisor, supervising, operations, degree


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