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Sales Manager Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Manager trainee Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of ... Learn sales and profit management - accountable for achieving top * Promote a safe and productive ...

Manager trainee Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of ... Learn sales and profit management - accountable for achieving top * Promote a safe and productive ...

Manager Trainee- Full Time

Ashland, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment. Store ...

New

Manager Trainee- Full Time

Ashland, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee- Full Time

Ashland, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment. Store ...

New

Manager Trainee- Full Time

Ashland, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Entry-Level Manager Trainee

Russellville, KY · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

FIRST ASST MGR TRAINEE

Wilder, KY · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

First Assistant Managers Trainee must be legally qualified under applicable state laws to conduct all sales transactions including alcohol and tobacco sales. Essential Functions: • Managing other ...

Entry-Level Manager Trainee

Russellville, KY · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Entry-Level Manager Trainee

Russellville, KY · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Entry-Level Manager Trainee

Russellville, KY · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Lexington, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment. Store ...

New

Manager Trainee in Training

Lexington, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment. Store ...

New

Manager Trainee in Training

Georgetown, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Louisville, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Lexington, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Louisville, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service: Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Georgetown, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

Manager Trainee in Training

Lexington, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... Sales and Customer Service : Support customers and drive sales in a retail store environment.

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Showing results 1-20

Sales Manager Trainee information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$18

$31

How much do sales manager trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for sales manager trainee in Kentucky is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a sales manager trainee?

To become a sales manager trainee, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Gaining experience in sales or customer service and demonstrating leadership potential can improve chances; some companies also prefer candidates with familiarity with CRM tools and sales techniques.

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

To thrive as a Sales Manager Trainee, you need a solid understanding of sales principles, customer relationship management, and typically a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, sales analytics tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly expected. Strong interpersonal skills, leadership potential, and adaptability set top candidates apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for effectively building client relationships, meeting sales targets, and preparing for advancement into management positions.

What is the difference between Sales Manager Trainee vs Sales Associate?

AspectSales Manager TraineeSales Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer bachelor's degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, office settings, retail stores, or corporate environmentsRetail stores, showrooms, or sales floors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in retail, wholesale, and corporate sales sectors for developing future managersCommon in retail and service industries for direct customer sales

The Sales Manager Trainee role focuses on training and developing skills to become a sales manager, often involving structured programs and mentorship. In contrast, a Sales Associate primarily handles direct customer interactions and sales transactions. While both roles involve sales, the Trainee position is more focused on learning and growth within the sales management pathway.

What is a sales manager trainee?

A Sales Manager Trainee is an entry-level professional who is training to become a sales manager. In this role, individuals learn about sales strategies, customer relationship management, and leadership skills needed to oversee a sales team. The position typically involves a combination of classroom learning and on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced sales managers. As trainees gain experience, they take on increasing responsibilities, such as assisting with sales planning, analyzing sales data, and supporting team performance. The ultimate goal is to prepare the trainee to advance into a full-fledged sales manager position.

What are some common challenges faced by sales manager trainees during the transition from trainee to full sales manager?

Sales Manager Trainees often find the transition to a full sales manager challenging due to increased responsibility for meeting sales targets, managing a team, and developing strategic plans. Adapting from learning under supervision to independently leading and motivating a team can be demanding. Additionally, balancing administrative duties with hands-on sales activities requires strong organizational and time-management skills. However, most companies provide mentorship and structured training programs to support this transition and help trainees build confidence and competence.

Is a sales manager trainee a good job?

A sales manager trainee position offers opportunities to develop leadership, sales, and communication skills, often serving as a stepping stone to a management role. It typically involves training in sales strategies, customer relationship management, and performance targets, making it suitable for individuals interested in a career in sales and management. The job can be rewarding for those who enjoy a dynamic environment and goal-oriented work, but it may also require resilience and strong interpersonal skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sales Trainee jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Sales Trainee jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Sales Manager Trainee jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Sales Manager Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Sales Manager Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,207 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Manager Trainee

Ace Hardware

Corbin, KY • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Ace Hardware Corporation rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 51 rated home improvement retailers


Job description

Manager trainee                                       

Overall Job Summary

The Manager

Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of WD Bryant ACE Hardware Store Manager

position and developing the skills required for a Store Manager role.

 Primary duties include delivering Legendary Customer Experience, building

the team, driving sales, managing inventory, managing profit and sales, expense

control, reducing and managing shrink.  

At WD

Bryant our customer promise is to strive to be the best and most helpful

hardware store there is.  Without

exception, we embody what it means to provide outstanding customer service.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

As a WD

Bryant Manager Trainee, you will be observing and learning the following duties

and skills required for a Store Manager role:

  • Recruiting, hiring, developing, evaluating, disciplining, and retaining efficient team members.  
  • Delivering on our promise of Legendary Customer Service through WOW
  • What can I help you find today.
  • Offer everything they need.
  • Warm thank you.
  • Creating and fostering a welcoming environment and sense of belonging in the Store. Ensure that the power of diversity, equity and inclusion is experienced everyday across our Team Members, Customers, Suppliers and Communities. Ensure Team Members mirror the communities the Store serves. Ensure a supportive and engaging experience for Team Members and Customers by fostering different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, ideas and innovative thinking. 
  • Schedule, organize, and plan daily activities for team members to ensure efficient store operations. 
  • Leading team members to ensure the customer has a Legendary shopping experience that differentiates from the competition. 
  • Communicate company processes, policies, and directives to team members.  Evaluate those processes for effectiveness and coordinate with District Manager to eliminate problems.  
  • Learn how to create a desirable work environment through promotions, recognition, and empowerment. 
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution for both team members and customers. 
  • Learn sales and profit management – accountable for achieving top
  • Promote a safe and productive work environment 
  • Bank runs for deposits & change.
  • Opening & Closing as MOD.
  • Manage the daily merchandise flow to ensure adequate in-stock and inventory controls. 
  • Learn the process of organizing merchandise resets to company specifications on a periodic basis. 
  • Implementing and sustaining merchandise presentation by WD Bryant standards. 
  • Evaluating a competitive environment and working with Operations and
  • Merchandising teams to ensure quality and performance. 
  • Average training period 3 to 6 months.
  • PAPERWORK:
  • Train on daily, weekly, and monthly processing of required paperwork including but not limited to invoices, schedules, product orders and returns, and POs reports. 
  • Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. 
  • Train on documentation of team member evaluations and corrective action. 
  • INVENTORY: 
  • Train on managing periodic price changes. 
  • Train on communicating inventory needs to buyers and distribution centers. 
  • Learn how to work with the buyers, supply chain management, district managers, and distribution centers to solve inventory problems. 
  • SPECIAL PROJECTS: 
  • Learn how to coordinate and conduct special sales events. 
  • Train in assisting the District Manager and other Store Managers in solving district issues and support operational needs.
  • Community involvement. 
  • TEAM MEMBER RELATIONS: 
  • Set the tone for and reinforce the mission and values of WD Bryant Ace Hardware and consistently develop the store as the “Employer of Choice”.
  • Learn how to address team member issues and concerns, working with HR team when necessary. 
  • Learn how to assess and develop team members for advancement within the organization. 
  • BUDGET/AUDITING 
  • Train to be responsible for budgeting and sales forecasting. 
  • Learn how to be responsible for auditing store processes. 

Required Qualifications

Experience:

a minimum of 5 years store management experience.  Retail experience and/or hardware, expertise

in a specific department, Shop services, or tool knowledge is strongly

preferred.  Supervisory experience preferred. Must be at least 18 years of

age and possess a valid driver’s license. 

Education:

High school diploma, Bachelor’s degree in Business related field preferred.

 Any suitable combination of education and experience will be considered.

Preferred knowledge, skills or abilities

  • Must have valid driver’s license if you drive for company business. 
  • Process information and merchandise through system and POS Register system. 
  • Read, write, and count to accurately complete all documentation. 
  • Freely access all areas of the store including selling floor, side lot, stock area, and register area. 
  • Operate and use all equipment necessary to run a store such as a dolly, hand-truck, forklift, computer, and cash register. 
  • Move and transfer merchandise generally weighing 0-50 lbs. throughout the store. 
  • Work varied hours, days, nights, and weekends as business dictates, plus six days a week during peak seasons in the spring and fall. 
  • Work a minimum of 50 hours per week. 
  • Stand and walk for long periods of time often up to four hours straight without a break. 
  • Travel to other store locations and to company functions. 
  • Understanding that you may be asked to relocate withing 100 mile radius of any WD Bryant store location.
  • Ability to operate Lift equipment.

Working Conditions

  • Normal office working conditions

Physical Requirements

  • Standing (not walking)
  • Sitting
  • Walking
  • Kneeling/Stooping/Bending
  • Reaching overhead
  • Driving a vehicle
  • Lifting up to 50 pounds

*One week of PTO as of your date of

hire. (Conditions do apply, inquire with District Manager)

Disclaimer

This job

description represents an overview of the responsibilities for the

above-mentioned position.  It is not intended to represent a comprehensive

list of responsibilities.  A team member should perform all duties as

assigned by his/ her supervisor.

We are your local hardware store and we are a part of your community. Ace Hardware has over 5,000 stores around the world with the majority of those stores independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric of your community. They are small business owners who are local and loyal...just like it ought to be. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we've remained small and very personal. That's why we say a visit to Ace, is like a visit to your neighbor.


What Ace Hardware Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ace Hardware logo

About Ace Hardware

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ace Hardware is a renowned company in the retail sector, headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, US. Dating back to its foundation in 1924 by a group of businessmen, the company has grown from a single store in Chicago to a global hardware cooperative consisting of more than 5,000 stores in over 60 countries. It operates in the home improvement sector and specializes in hardware, home goods, local niche services, and select specialty retailers. As prevalent in its motto "The Helpful Place", Ace Hardware's mission is to provide customers with high-quality hardware products while delivering exemplary customer service.

Industry

Retail, hardware, plumbing and hvac wholesalers and construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Brook, IL, US