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Rotation Program Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ULINE

Warehouse Management Trainee

Waukegan, IL

$32/hr

Master all aspects of warehouse operations management through an 18-month rotational program providing on-the-job learning. * Participate in hands-on training across all warehouse teams including ...

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Rotation Program information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$93.4K

$121.1K

How much do rotation program jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for rotation program in Chicago, IL is $93,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $120,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Rotation Program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Rotation Program, you need a relevant educational background (such as a bachelor's degree), strong analytical skills, and adaptability to quickly learn new functions. Familiarity with business tools like Microsoft Office Suite, data analysis software, and internal company systems is often required. Effective communication, teamwork, and a proactive attitude help participants build relationships and excel in varied assignments. These skills ensure you can successfully navigate multiple business areas, contribute value, and position yourself for future leadership roles.

How does participating in a rotation program help accelerate career growth compared to starting in a traditional entry-level role?

Rotation programs offer job seekers the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multiple departments or functions within an organization, typically over a set period of time. This exposure helps participants build a broad skill set, develop a strong internal network, and identify which roles or areas align best with their interests and strengths. As a result, rotation program participants often progress more quickly into leadership or specialized roles, since they have a comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations and culture. Additionally, these programs are usually supported by mentorship and regular feedback, which further supports professional development.

What is a rotation program?

A rotation program is a structured career development initiative, often offered by larger companies, where employees—typically recent graduates—rotate through several different roles or departments over a set period of time. The goal is to provide broad exposure to various functions of the business, helping participants build diverse skills, network with professionals across the organization, and identify their preferred career path. These programs usually last from one to three years and can lead to permanent placement in a specific department upon completion. Rotation programs are common in industries like finance, engineering, and management consulting.

What is the difference between Rotation Program vs Management Trainee?

AspectRotation ProgramManagement Trainee
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, sometimes a master's; no specific certifications neededSimilar educational background; often no certifications required
Work EnvironmentVaried departments, fast-paced, cross-functional exposureStructured training across departments, mentorship focus
Employer UsageCommon in large corporations for developing future leadersUsed by companies to identify and train future managers

Both Rotation Programs and Management Trainee programs aim to develop future professionals through cross-departmental exposure. Rotation Programs tend to offer broader experience across multiple functions, while Management Trainee programs focus more on leadership development and management skills. The choice depends on career goals and the company's training structure.

What are popular job titles related to Rotation Program jobs in Chicago, IL? For Rotation Program jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rotation Program jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Rotation Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Rotation Program jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Rotation Program job openings:
Rotation Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rotation Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,359 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

ENGINEERING ROTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

SMALLEY STEEL RING COMPANY

Lake Zurich, IL

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About us
Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products known for our Spirolox retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.


Why Smalley?
At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We believe in our associates' unique perspectives that they bring to every challenge, which is why we will empower you to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are committed to nurturing an enjoyable work atmosphere demonstrated through activities such as Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and fun sports opportunities to play in basketball, bags, and ping pong tournaments!


We Offer

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package as well as: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, and more!
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
  • Ongoing learning and training and development opportunities
  • Company and department led team-building activities and events


Rotational Program Overview
Smalley's Engineering Rotational Development Program is designed for 2026 graduates or recent graduates with 1 to 2 years of experience in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines who want accelerated, hands-on development in a manufacturing environment.


Program Structure
The Engineering Rotational Development Program is a two-year multi rotation, full time program that includes planned rotations across five core engineering and operations areas, providing broad exposure to how Smalley designs, manufactures, inspects, and delivers its products.


Rotations are structured to:

  • Build core engineering and manufacturing knowledge
  • Increase understanding of product flow from concept through production
  • Develop cross functional communication and problem solving skills
  • Prepare participants for long term technical or operational roles within the organization
  • At the conclusion of the program, participants transition into a permanent engineering role aligned with demonstrated strengths, interests, and business needs.

Participants will rotate through multiple engineering and operations focused areas, which may include:

  • Product Application Design
  • Sales Engineering
  • Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering and production environments
  • Quality Engineering/Quality Systems and inspection operations
  • Machine Design, automation and tooling

(Exact rotation assignments may vary based on business needs and individual development goals.)


Learning & Development

  • Throughout the program, participants will benefit from:
  • Hands on, on site engineering experience
  • Exposure to real manufacturing challenges and continuous improvement efforts
  • Collaboration with experienced engineers, operations leaders, and cross functional teams
  • Ongoing coaching, feedback, and professional development support


The program is intentionally designed to balance technical depth with organizational breadth, enabling participants to understand both the "why" and the "how" behind Smalley's engineering and manufacturing decisions.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree (or Master's) in Mechanical Engineering or related degree, graduating in 2026 or 1 to 2 years of post-graduate engineering experience
  • Ability to work onsite and engage directly with engineering teams
  • Strong communication skills, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis

Preferred qualifications:

  • Internship/co-op experience in manufacturing, quality, operations, or industrial engineering
  • Exposure to Lean/continuous improvement and basic data analysis
  • ERP/MRP exposure (nice-to-have)

Success factors (what great looks like):

  • Curious, hands-on learner; comfortable on the floor and in cross-functional conversations
  • Structured problem solver; uses data and root-cause thinking
  • Strong follow-through; communicates clearly and builds trust


Apply today and discover the opportunities that await you!

A reasonable estimate of the base salary range for this role is $65,000 - $75,000 USD. Please note that actual salaries may vary within the range, or be above or below the range, based on factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, professional achievement, business need, and location.This role may be bonus/and or incentive eligible.

EEO/Affirmative Action Smalley is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, ancestry, marital status, or any other legally protected class as recognized by applicable law.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental vision, life, accident disability, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, paid holidays, paid time off and 401(k).

*Should you need further assistance to apply to any of our job postings or have any general questions, please contact us at 847-719-5900.

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