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Sales Engineer Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... and other sales support roles. This phase also includes job shadowing as well as specific ... Bachelor or Associate's degree preferred in business, marketing, transportation, engineering, or a ...

... and other sales support roles. This phase also includes job shadowing as well as specific ... Bachelor or Associate's degree preferred in business, marketing, transportation, engineering, or a ...

... and other sales support roles. This phase also includes job shadowing as well as specific ... Bachelor or Associate's degree preferred in business, marketing, transportation, engineering, or a ...

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Sales Engineer Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

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$37

How much do sales engineer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for sales engineer trainee in Chicago, IL is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sales engineer trainee?

Sales Engineer Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to bridge the gap between technical products and customer needs. They receive training in both engineering principles and sales techniques to effectively assist clients in understanding and purchasing complex products or services. Their role typically involves shadowing experienced sales engineers, learning about the company's products, and gradually taking on more responsibility in both technical support and sales activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sales engineer trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sales Engineer Trainee, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, basic sales techniques, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, product demonstration tools, and technical presentation platforms is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills enable a Sales Engineer Trainee to effectively bridge technical solutions with customer needs, driving successful sales outcomes and career growth.

What are some common challenges faced by sales engineer trainees during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Sales Engineer Trainees often face the challenge of balancing technical learning with developing strong communication and sales skills. Navigating complex product knowledge while building relationships with clients can be overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, trainees should proactively seek mentorship, participate in product training sessions, and regularly collaborate with experienced sales engineers and technical teams. Embracing feedback and engaging in continuous learning will help build confidence and competence in both technical and client-facing aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Sales Engineer Trainee vs Sales Engineer?

AspectSales Engineer TraineeSales Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degrees or certificationsRelevant degrees, certifications, and experience in sales and technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, mentorship, entry-level sales and technical support rolesClient-facing roles, technical presentations, product demonstrations
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in tech, manufacturing, and engineering firmsMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more client responsibility

The main difference is that a Sales Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and development, while a Sales Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for client interactions and technical sales. Trainees are in training, whereas Sales Engineers have established skills and experience to handle complex sales processes.

How much does an entry level sales engineer make?

Entry-level sales engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on the industry and location. Starting salaries may include commissions or bonuses based on sales performance, and the role often requires technical knowledge and communication skills.

How to get into sales engineer trainee with no experience?

To become a sales engineer trainee with no experience, focus on developing technical knowledge relevant to the industry, such as understanding products and solutions, and improve communication skills. Gaining certifications like Cisco or CompTIA can enhance your qualifications, and internships or entry-level roles in sales or technical support can provide practical experience. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and a strong interest in technology is also important for entry into this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sales Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sales Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sales Engineer Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sales Engineer Trainee job openings:

2027 US Operations Trainee Progam

Kraft Heinz Company

Chicago, IL • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 442 rated food and drinks producers


Job description


The Kraft Heinz Operations Trainee Program is designed to grow the future leaders of Kraft Heinz. This program is for high-performing, ambitious, and creative individuals who are ready to lead the future of food and beverage. Throughout the program, Trainees will hone their understanding of our business and industry, collaborate across the business to grow our iconic brands, and learn how to build their own legacy here at Kraft Heinz. The Operations Internship program supports our non-manufacturing operations functions across US supply chain, quality and procurement.
What's on the Menu for the Trainee Program?
The Kraft Heinz Trainee Program is a ten-month leadership development program that includes:
  • Two-to-four weeks of immersive onboarding to learn the business from end-to-end, build connections with their cohort, and prepare to drive impact throughout the program,
  • Two 4-month project rotations to bring creative solutions across the business,
  • One week of leadership development rooted in our WIN leadership principles,
  • One week of celebration and professional development to support the transition out of the trainee program and into full-time role,
  • Placement into a full-time role upon the completion of the program to continue developing as a leader and growing a robust career at Kraft Heinz.

Throughout the program, Trainees can also expect regular opportunities to meet with our CEO, North America President, Chief People Officer, and other senior executives; mentorship from previous trainees and business leadership; collaboration with Trainees from other countries, including UK, Netherlands, and Brazil; and curated learning experiences to help with grow as leaders and as cultural ambassadors of Kraft Heinz.
Our Trainee program will kick off July 12th 2027.
What Operations Trainees Work On?
Operations Trainees will spend their program in one of the teams noted below, partnering to identify opportunities and deliver improvement projects that strengthen how we operate-enhancing ways of working, core processes, digital evolution, commercialization and supply chain performance. Trainees typically own a defined project scope, collaborate cross-functionally, and share results through regular updates and an end-of-program presentation.
Our Operations Trainees may be placed any of the following teams:*
  • US Supply Chain
  • Logistics
  • Planning - Demand, Supply and Materials Planning
  • Digital Supply Chain
  • Zone Technical Excellence (ZTE) - Engineering, Continuous Improvement & Digital Manufacturing
  • Commercialization
  • Environment Health and Safety (EHS)
  • Procurement
  • Quality

*Opportunities for our marketing, human resources, finance, sales, manufacturing and research & development facilities are also available at select locations, please visit our early careers site, choose the role most aligned with your goals and submit a single application.
Recipe for Success
We are looking for candidates who...
  • Are pursuing a Bachelors degree with anticipated graduation between November 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027
  • Are innovative thinkers and problem solvers
  • Choose greatness by challenging the status quo
  • Take leadership opportunities to make an impact
  • Have a passion for our values and the future of our brands
  • Are able to lead through challenges
  • Take complex concepts and look for ways to simplify

New Hire Base Salary:
  • $80,000 USD Annually

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Our Values
Our Trainees are expected to live out the Kraft Heinz values as cultural champions and future leaders at the organization. At Kraft Heinz, our values are:
• We are consumer obsessed
• We dare to do better every day
• We champion great people
• We demand diversity
• We do the right thing
• We own it
The Recruitment Process
Internship program applications are accepted through October, 2nd 2026.
• Step 1: Application and Games-Based Assessment
• Step 2: Virtual Interviews with Business Leaders
• Step 3: Final On-Site Interview Day at our Chicago Headquarters
Where Will Your Journey Take You?
Trainees on the Supply Chain & Procurement track will be based in Chicago, IL. All Trainees will complete one of their project rotations at a field location (i.e. sales office, manufacturing plant, research and development facility); with the exception of sales trainees. Sales trainees will complete 2 rotations in the field at our sales offices. Housing is provided to Trainees when they are on their field project rotation
Final Job Placement Locations*
  • Supply Chain & Procurement roles: Final placement in Chicago, IL, - with availability at our manufacturing plants.

* Upon completion of the trainee program, you will have an opportunity to rank your preferences, final placement will be based on business need and your interests.
About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We're on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. A consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress as we drive innovation across every part of our company.
Around the world, our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We also believe in being good humans, who are working to improve our company, communities, and planet. We're proud of where we've been - and even more thrilled about where we're headed - as we nourish the world and lead the future of food.
Why Us
We grow our people to grow our business. We champion great people who bring ambition, curiosity, and high performance to the table as the guardians of our beloved and nostalgic brands. Good isn't good enough. We choose greatness every day by challenging the ordinary and making bold decisions. All while celebrating our wins - and our failures - as we work together to lead the future of food.
Challenging the status quo takes talent. We invest in your purpose and potential by developing skills and nurturing strengths that leave a legacy on our business and a lasting impact on your career. Because great people make great companies, and we're growing something great here at Kraft Heinz.
Office Collaboration & Hybrid Work Environment
We believe our office environment fuels our collaboration, connection & community as an organization and allows our employees to grow toward greatness. We also believe providing a more flexible and agile model is essential in today's workplace. A majority of our office based employees will be able to work remotely for up to two days each week. Some jobs may be required to be performed fully in office depending on the role's responsibilities and requirements.
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NATAI@kraftheinz.com
Location(s)
Chicago/Aon Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes.

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