Project Manager Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Are you ready to build a rewarding and lifelong career? Do you thrive  in a team environment that challenges you to be your best? Join 84 Lumber, a family-owned company founded on growth, stability, and the mindset that “nothing is impossible.” 84 Lumber is hiring immediately and has the perfect career opportunity for you!

WHO IS 84?

84 Lumber is the nation’s largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components and industry-leading services for residential and commercial construction. With over 320 facilities in 34 states and plans for even more locations, your opportunities for growth within the company are endless. If you invest in yourself, we will invest in you!

At 84 Lumber,  we promote nearly 100% from within, creating a unique environment where you can build your own career path. Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first promotion within six months.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE:

We offer all the benefits you expect from an industry leader, including:

• Monthly performance incentives (both store and personal-level bonus potential)
• Paid Time Off (PTO), sick and personal days
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• Holiday pay
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for medical and dependent care
• Annual profit sharing and 401(k) with employer match (based on company profits)
• Discounts on building materials and other retail partnerships

RECOGNITION & AWARDS:

84 Lumber is proud to be recognized as one of America’s:

• Most Patriotic Companies by Newsweek, 2026
• Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek, 2026
• Largest Family Businesses by Forbes, 2026
• Top Private Companies by Forbes, 2025
• Best Large Employers by Forbes, 2025

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Manager Trainee is a full-time, entry-level position designed to prepare you for a leadership role within 84 Lumber.  This role offers hands-on training across all aspects  of store operations with the goal of promotion to a management position. Within the first 6-12 months, you can be promoted (based on performance and position availability), which can lead to up to a 40% increase in annual pay. Many Manager Trainees progress to General Manager roles within  3-4 years. Manager Trainees must complete the learning plan and course of study as outlined within the assigned time frame and must be willing to relocate for a management position.

No experience is required to begin your career at 84 Lumber. Just bring your dedication and willingness to learn and we will help you with the rest!

Through a structured training plan including classroom, online, and hands-on learning across various areas, you will learn:

• Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.
• Store Operations and Inventory Management: Oversee material/supply chain flow, stock, and merchandising.
• Blueprint Reading and Estimation: Create material estimates for building projects.
• Forklift Operation and Certification: Safe handling of materials and equipment.
• Business Management: Payroll, invoicing, inventory, and financial analysis.
• Microsoft Office Suite: While previous experience is preferred, you will enhance and refine your skills through a comprehensive training program.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

You’ll work  in both indoor and outdoor settings, assisting customers in all weather conditions ( wet, humid, hot, or cold). This role requires frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 80 pounds), and other physical activities. You may also work around machinery and airborne particles.

• Payroll, Invoicing, Inventory and POS Systems
• Microsoft Office Suite (previous experience preferred)
• Interpreting and analyzing common financial reports
• Reading blueprints and creating material lists
• Responding to common inquiries or complaints from customers

REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent Availability: Full-time schedule (48+ hours/week, overtime included)

Are you ready to lead, learn, and grow with 84 Lumber? Apply today to begin your career journey!

84 Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent Availability: Full-time schedule (48+ hours/week, overtime included)

Are you ready to lead, learn, and grow with 84 Lumber? Apply today to begin your career journey!

84 Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.