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Production Manager Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Sacramento, CA

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Los Angeles, CA

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Sacramento, CA

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Los Angeles, CA

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$34/hr

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Daikin

Branch Manager Trainee

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$34/hr

The Branch Manager Trainee's Responsibilities include taking direction from multiple sources to ... Expand knowledge of HVAC products and keep current with latest trends within the industry * Learn ...

Big 5 LLC

Assistant Manager Trainee - Full-time

Chino, CA · On-site

$19.06/hr

Our Manager Trainee gains knowledge and experience required for promotion to higher management ... Recommend products and suggest add-on sales * Direct oversight of footwear and advertising programs ...

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Production Manager Trainee information

See California salary details

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$34

How much do production manager trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for production manager trainee in California is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production manager trainee?

Production Manager Trainees are entry-level professionals who are being trained to oversee and coordinate the manufacturing process in a facility. They work under the supervision of experienced production managers to learn about production planning, workflow optimization, quality control, and staff management. Their goal is to gain the necessary skills and experience to eventually take on a full production manager role, ensuring that products are made efficiently, safely, and within quality standards. Typically, they participate in hands-on training, shadowing, and sometimes classroom instruction as part of their development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a production manager trainee?

To thrive as a Production Manager Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, a relevant degree (such as in engineering or business), and strong analytical abilities. Familiarity with production management software, lean manufacturing tools, and safety regulations is commonly required. Effective communication, leadership potential, and strong problem-solving skills help distinguish top candidates in this role. These skills ensure efficient production operations, support team leadership, and promote continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a production manager trainee, and how can they be addressed?

Production Manager Trainees often encounter challenges related to balancing production schedules, managing diverse teams, and adapting quickly to new processes or technologies. It's common to feel pressure when handling tight deadlines or unexpected supply chain issues. Proactively communicating with team members, seeking guidance from experienced managers, and staying organized with task management tools can help overcome these challenges. Building strong relationships across departments also fosters a supportive environment and smoother workflow.

What is the difference between Production Manager Trainee vs Production Supervisor?

AspectProduction Manager TraineeProduction Supervisor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in manufacturing, engineering, or related fieldOften requires experience in production or manufacturing, sometimes with certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, learning management skills in production settingsOversees daily production operations on the shop floor
Employer UsageEntry-level training role within manufacturing companiesMid-level role responsible for supervising production staff
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry points and training roles in production managementLooking for supervisory roles in manufacturing

The Production Manager Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning management skills and gaining industry knowledge, often through training programs. In contrast, a Production Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily operations and managing production staff. While both roles are integral to manufacturing, the trainee role is more about development, whereas the supervisor role involves direct supervision and operational decision-making.

How do you become a production manager trainee?

To become a production manager trainee, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field, along with some experience in production or operations. Developing skills in leadership, problem-solving, and familiarity with production management tools can improve prospects, and some companies may require relevant certifications or on-the-job training programs.

What are popular job titles related to Production Manager Trainee jobs in California?

For Production Manager Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Production Manager Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Production Manager Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Production Manager Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Production Manager Trainee job openings:

Production Manager Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Manager Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,752 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Assistant Manager Trainee - Full-time

Big 5 Sporting Goods

Lancaster, CA • On-site

$19.06/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Big 5 Sporting Goods rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

547th of 734 rated retailers

Job description

Management Trainee

With nearly 400 stores across the western United States, Big 5 Sporting Goods is the neighborhood store that gets you ready to play. For over 70 years, everything we do comes down to having the most energetic, sports-minded individual on our team.

The Management Trainee position is the perfect career opportunity for the sports and outdoor enthusiast. The qualities of our team members serve as a foundation for future growth, and our managers provide leadership and direction to the entire store team.

Our Manager Trainee gains knowledge and experience required for promotion to higher management positions under direction of experienced personnel, by performing the following duties personally or through subordinates. When you join Big 5, you will enjoy a fast-paced work environment with opportunities for growth. This entry-level position is purposely designed to be transitory and generally lasts 6-18 months before promotion to the next level. A well-defined training program will be provided to help you develop your way into a management position. Candidates who apply for this position should be enthusiastic, energetic, sports-minded people with solid customer service backgrounds and/or educational paths well-suited for the industry.

Primary Duties

  • Provide excellent customer service and assist customers throughout the store
  • Driving sales
  • Answer phone calls and respond to customer inquiries
  • Recommend products and suggest add-on sales
  • Direct oversight of footwear and advertising programs, and other departments
  • Merchandising and compliance of all company policies
  • Setting promotional signage
  • Checking and retrieving merchandise from stockroom as needed
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked sales floor
  • Receive merchandise shipment
  • Assist with store opening and closing procedures
  • Training newly hired associates
  • Directing sales and cashier associates throughout the store
  • Inventory control and enforcement of loss prevention policies
  • Enforcement of all company policies
  • Performs or may perform additional duties as assigned by management and supervision

Position Requirements

  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Must possess basic organizational and/or applicable math skills
  • Detail-oriented and reliable
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Basic knowledge of sporting goods is a plus
  • Must possess High School diploma, GED, or High School Equivalency Exam
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Upon accepting a position offered, candidate will be subject to E-Verify
  • Light to moderate lifting may be required, with or without reasonable accommodation

Benefits

Dental, Medical, Vision Insurance, Savings and Profit-Sharing Plan-401k/Roth IRA, Paid Personal Time Off, Sick Leave, Vacation, Company-sponsored Education Assistance, Employee Merchandise Discount, Employee Referral Program, Company Paid Life Insurance, Ticket Discounts to Top Attractions and Events, Pet Insurance, Kinecta Credit Union Membership.

Pay Scale: $19.06 per hour

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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