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Operations Trainee Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

lwg

Big O Tires Manager Trainee

Urbandale, IA

Summary A Sales Associate (Manager Trainee) exemplifies professional integrity, strong teamwork ... Support the Store Manager in overseeing daily business operations, including scheduling, staffing ...

Kura Sushi

Manager Trainee

West Des Moines, IA

$55K/yr

Analyzers of daily operational andguest service needs * Passionate about developing andmentoring staff * Adheres to company policies andprocedures * Team players who go above and beyond * Flexible ...

builders

Sales Trainee

Boone, IA

Receives training and performs progressively responsible duties in various areas such as: yard operations, production, dispatch/scheduling/delivery, and inside sales while learning the outside sales ...

Dollar Tree

Store Manager Trainee

Des Moines, IA

$19 - $22.75/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Dollartree

Store Manager Trainee

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Dollar Tree

Store Manager Trainee

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Dollar Tree

Store Manager Trainee

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19 - $22.75/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Dollar Tree

Store Manager Trainee

West Des Moines, IA

$19.25 - $23/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Dollartree

Store Manager Trainee

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19 - $22.75/hr

Implement operational and merchandising direction that is communicated from our corporate headquarters * Help your store reach its maximum profit contribution * Protect company assets * Maintain a ...

Kura Sushi

Store Manager Trainee

West Des Moines, IA

$66K/yr

Analyzers of daily operational andguest service needs * Passionate about developing andmentoring staff * Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers * Adheres to company policies andprocedures * Team ...

Doll Distributing

CDL Driver Trainee

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $30.10/hr

Comply with all federal Department of Transportation regulations related to vehicle operations * Maintain and safely operate all assigned equipment, including but not limited, to hand carts, pallets ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperations JobsOperations Trainee JobsOperations Trainee Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Operations Trainee information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

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How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Des Moines, IA is $21.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.58 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 Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Operations jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

Operations Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Trainee job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,602 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Assistant Manager Trainee

Sherwin-Williams

Ankeny, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Sherwin-Williams rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 683 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

The Sherwin-Williams Assistant Manager Trainee Program is an accelerated, entry-level position designed to prepare current employees for a Store Management role in 18-24 months. With Sherwin-Williams' promote-from-within philosophy, you will have the opportunity to progress into an Assistant Store Manager position upon successful completion of the initial 6-8-week training.

This position's typical schedule is 44 hours per week, which may include evenings and/or weekends.

During the program, you will collaborate with store management to oversee a million-dollar business, providing leadership and insight into the development and strategy of that store. Through the course of the program, you will learn all operations, clients, and internal strategy, allowing you to understand the significant part you'll play in the team's success. You will grow the company's market share by selling to large, commercial users such as painting contractors, purchasing agents, manufacturers, and other commercial users who need large volumes of our high-quality products.

Our training experience provides you with all the skills necessary for a successful career in management and professional sales. After you complete the training program, you can count on a career trajectory with a clear beginning and an open end - meaning you shape your future! 

What you will gain:
Limitless Career Opportunities
This structured program provides the support you need, including formal discussions to review your objectives and development

Leadership Development 
You'll develop the foundation for what it takes to become a successful leader in our organization
We'll teach you how to excel at customer service, sales, and marketing, finance, and operations 

Professional Networking
You will also get out into the community and establish relationships essential to growing our business - and your success

This position is also eligible for bonus based on performance and subject to the terms of the Company's applicable plans.

This position is eligible for health benefits, such as medical, dental and vision coverage, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), disability coverage, security, retirement and savings benefits, and more. Additional benefits include a generous time away from work package, including personal leave, paid parental leave, medical leave, vacation, holidays, among other benefits. 

Job duties involve contact with customers, which may include minors; and access to cash and other payment methods, electronic equipment, personal information, store merchandise and other items of value, and such access may be supervised or unsupervised. The Company therefore has determined that a review of criminal history is necessary to protect the business and its operations and reputation and is necessary to protect the safety of the Company's customers, staff, employees, vendors, contractors, and the general public.

At Sherwin-Williams, our purpose is to inspire and improve the world by coloring and protecting what matters. Our paints, coatings and innovative solutions make the places and spaces in our world brighter and stronger. Your skills, talent and passion make it possible to live this purpose, and for customers and our business to achieve great results. Sherwin-Williams is a place that takes its stability, growth and momentum and translates it to possibility for our people. Our people are behind the strength of our success, and we invest and support you in:

Life ... with rewards, benefits and the flexibility to enhance your health and well-being
Career ... with opportunities to learn, develop new skills and grow your contribution
Connection ... with an inclusive team and commitment to our own and broader communities
It's all here for you... let's Create Your Possible

At Sherwin-Williams, part of our mission is to help our employees and their families live healthier, save smarter and feel better. This starts with a wide range of world-class benefits designed for you. From retirement to health care, from total well-being to your daily commute-it matters to us. A general description of benefits offered can be found at http://www.myswbenefits.com/. Click on "Candidates" to view benefit offerings that you may be eligible for if you are hired as a Sherwin-Williams employee.

Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case and will impact where actual compensation may fall within the stated wage range. The wage range listed for this role takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions including skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. The wage range, other compensation, and benefits information listed is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws including with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act where applicable.

Sherwin-Williams is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, creed, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or by contract.

As a VEVRAA Federal Contractor, Sherwin-Williams requests state and local employment services delivery systems to provide priority referral of Protected Veterans.

Please be aware, Sherwin-Williams recruiting team members will never request a candidate to provide a payment, ask for financial information, or sensitive personal information like national identification numbers, date of birth, or bank account numbers during the application process.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without needing sponsorship for employment work visa status now or in the future
  • Must have a valid, unrestricted Driver's License
  • Must have at least a High School diploma or GED
  • Must be able, with or without reasonable accommodation, to retrieve material from shelves and floor stacks and lift and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 70 lbs. on occasion
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Have at least one (1) year of experience working in a retail, sales, or customer service position
  • Have at least one (1) year of experience in leadership role(s), supervising others, or leading teams
  • Have previous work experience selling paint and paint-related products
  • Have work experience using timekeeping and/or customer relationship management ("CRM") systems
  • Have an associate's degree or higher in business, sales, or marketing
  • Have previous experience working in a team-oriented setting including work experience, extracurricular activities, military service, etc.
  • Willingness to relocate for future job opportunities
  • Ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate in more than one language
  • Ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate in Spanish
Minimum Requirements:
  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age 
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without needing sponsorship for employment work visa status now or in the future
  • Must have a valid, unrestricted Driver's License
  • Must have at least a High School diploma or GED
  • Must be able, with or without reasonable accommodation, to retrieve material from shelves and floor stacks and lift and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 70 lbs. on occasion
  • If internal to Sherwin-Williams, you must have received at least a "meets expectations" (3) rating on your most recent performance appraisal
  • If internal to Sherwin-Williams, you must have completed all HR Cloud eLearning courses required for your current position 
 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Have at least one (1) year of experience working in a retail, sales, or customer service position 
  • Have at least one (1) year of experience in leadership role(s), supervising others, or leading teams
  • Have previous work experience selling paint and paint-related products
  • Have work experience using timekeeping and/or customer relationship management ("CRM") systems
  • Have an associate's degree or higher in business, sales, or marketing
  • Have previous experience working in a team-oriented setting including work experience, extracurricular activities, military service, etc. 
  • Willingness to relocate for future job opportunities
  • Ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate in more than one language
  • Ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate in Spanish
  • Complete training consistent with established program
  • Support business strategies to increase sales and optimize profitability
  • Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through excellent service
  • Build and maintain knowledge of all products to ensure effective customer recommendations
  • Build positive relationships with wholesale and retail customers
  • Complete store administration
  • Ensure compliance with policies and procedures including safety, loss prevention, and security
  • Maintain outstanding store condition and visual merchandising standards, including promotional packages and sales floor displays
  • Support employee training, development, performance management, and corrective action
  • Respond to and resolve any customer and/or employee complaints
  • Partner with Store Manager to make outside sales calls to increase market share

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