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Store Manager Trainee Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

GNC's Store Manager in Training (SMIT) position is a development focused role that is crafted to prepare an individual to manage their own store. Under the leadership of a Store Manager or District ...

AutoZone's Store Management team drives store performance, fosters a productive team, and ensures exceptional customer service. Managers and MITs play a key leadership role, expected to Live The ...

MANAGER IN TRAINING

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $17.25/hr

AutoZone's Store Management team drives store performance, fosters a productive team, and ensures exceptional customer service. Managers and MITs play a key leadership role, expected to Live The ...

MANAGER IN TRAINING

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $17.25/hr

AutoZone's Store Management team drives store performance, fosters a productive team, and ensures exceptional customer service. Managers and MITs play a key leadership role, expected to Live The ...

... a manager in training, you can count on a career path with a clear beginning and an open end that's full of opportunities. With training, development, mentoring, and a culture of promotion from ...

Pharmacy Manager

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$53.50 - $62.75/hr

Pharmacy Manager We're building a world of health around every individual -- shaping a more ... store and district, including training on CVS workflow, and ensuring all trainees are on-track for ...

Pharmacy Manager

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$53.50 - $62.75/hr

Our Pharmacy Managers play a critical role in cultivating a culture of excellence in their ... store and district, including training on CVS workflow, and ensuring all trainees are on-track for ...

... the Store and the Company. Experience and Skills Ideal Trainees should have: High level of ... management skills Top-notch customer service skills with a desire to build long term trust and ...

... the Store and the Company. Experience and Skills Ideal Trainees should have: High level of ... management skills Top-notch customer service skills with a desire to build long term trust and ...

Yard Person

Dayton, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

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 ...

We are 29,000+ strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than 1,500 Petco stores ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

We are 29,000+ strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than 1,500 Petco stores ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Start your career as a Trainee in our 5-week paid training program and earn a $.50 raise and ... Follow the Career Path and apply for an Assistant Manager position which includes a 6-month ...

Start your career as a Trainee in our 5-week paid training program and earn a $.50 raise and ... Follow the Career Path and apply for an Assistant Manager position which includes a 6-month ...

Showing results 21-40

Store Manager Trainee information

See Cleveland, TN salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do store manager trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for store manager trainee in Cleveland, TN is $17.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a store manager trainee?

A Store Manager Trainee is an entry-level management position in retail, designed to prepare individuals for the responsibilities of managing a store. Trainees learn about store operations, customer service, inventory management, staff supervision, and sales strategies under the guidance of experienced managers. The goal is for the trainee to acquire the necessary skills and experience to eventually take on the role of Store Manager. Throughout the training period, individuals may rotate through various departments and participate in both hands-on and classroom-style training. Successful completion of the program often leads to a promotion to Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

What types of training and mentorship can I expect as a store manager trainee?

As a Store Manager Trainee, you'll typically participate in a structured training program that combines hands-on experience with classroom-based learning. You'll shadow experienced store managers, learn about inventory management, customer service, team leadership, and store operations. Many retailers also assign mentors or training supervisors to provide regular feedback and support. This immersive approach helps you build confidence and prepares you for the responsibilities of managing a store independently.

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

To thrive as a Store Manager Trainee, you need strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and some retail experience. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, and basic Microsoft Office applications is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service orientation, and the ability to motivate teams are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for efficiently managing store operations, driving sales, and fostering a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Store Manager Trainee vs Assistant Store Manager?

AspectStore Manager TraineeAssistant Store Manager
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer retail or management courseworkHigh school diploma; experience in retail management often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining in retail store operations, customer service, and salesSupports store manager, oversees daily operations, manages staff
Employer & Industry UsageRetail chains, department stores, supermarketsSame as Store Manager Trainee, often a step before becoming a store manager

The Store Manager Trainee role is designed for individuals gaining foundational retail management skills, often through training programs. The Assistant Store Manager supports the store manager directly, handling daily operations and staff management. While both roles are integral to retail success, the trainee position is more focused on learning, whereas the assistant role involves more responsibility and independence in store management tasks.

Can I become a store manager trainee with no experience?

Store manager trainee positions often do not require prior management experience, as they are designed to train individuals on store operations, customer service, and leadership skills. Employers typically look for strong communication, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn, with some roles offering on-the-job training or entry-level requirements.

What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Store Manager Trainee jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Store Manager Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Store Manager Trainee job openings in Cleveland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,064 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Houchens Food Group rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 123 rated grocery stores


Job description

Description

HFG Store Manager In Training

Job Description

Job Title

Store Manager In Training

Reports To

Regional Manager

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt 

Department

Grocery 

Employment Status

Full-Time

Store Manager In Training

Position Summary

The Store Manager In Training participates in a structured training program designed to prepare the individual for a future Store Manager position. Under the direction of the Store Manager and District Leadership, the Store Manager In Training learns all aspects of store operations, including customer service, merchandising, inventory control, employee supervision, financial performance, safety, and compliance.

This position provides hands-on experience in leadership, operations, and business management while developing the skills necessary to successfully manage a retail grocery store. The Store Manager In Training gradually assumes increasing responsibility and leadership duties as training milestones are achieved.

Key Responsibilities

Training & Development

  • Participate in all assigned training programs and development activities.
  • Learn and demonstrate proficiency in all store departments and operational functions.
  • Develop knowledge of company policies, procedures, and operational standards.
  • Complete assigned training modules, leadership development activities, and performance evaluations.
  • Seek coaching and feedback from Store Managers and District Leadership to support professional growth.
  • Prepare for advancement into a Store Manager role by demonstrating leadership and operational competency.

Leadership & Team Development

  • Assist the Store Manager with supervising department managers, supervisors, and store associates.
  • Learn effective recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance management practices.
  • Provide leadership support and direction to associates during assigned shifts.
  • Promote teamwork, accountability, and customer-focused service.
  • Assist in communicating company goals, policies, and operational expectations to store personnel.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, integrity, and positive workplace behavior.

Customer Service

  • Deliver exceptional customer service and model company service standards.
  • Assist in resolving customer concerns, complaints, and service issues.
  • Promote a clean, organized, and welcoming shopping environment.
  • Ensure associates maintain professional and courteous customer interactions.
  • Support customer satisfaction initiatives and store service goals.

Store Operations

  • Learn daily store operations including opening, closing, cash handling, scheduling, and reporting procedures.
  • Assist with labor planning, scheduling, and productivity management.
  • Monitor store conditions and support operational excellence throughout all departments.
  • Learn how to analyze operational reports and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Support implementation of company programs, initiatives, and operational directives.

Merchandising & Inventory Control

  • Assist with ordering, receiving, stocking, pricing, rotating, and merchandising products.
  • Learn inventory management processes, shrink reduction strategies, and stock control procedures.
  • Monitor inventory levels and assist in preventing out-of-stocks and overstocks.
  • Support execution of promotional displays and merchandising programs.
  • Participate in physical inventories and inventory reconciliation activities.

Financial Performance

  • Learn key store financial metrics including sales, gross profit, labor, and shrink.
  • Assist in monitoring department and store performance.
  • Gain experience reviewing reports, budgets, forecasts, and productivity measurements.
  • Support initiatives designed to improve profitability and operational efficiency.

Safety, Security & Compliance

  • Follow and help enforce company safety, sanitation, health, and security standards.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable regulations.
  • Assist with incident reporting, investigations, and corrective actions when necessary.
  • Learn store security procedures including cash controls, alarm systems, and loss prevention practices.
  • Promote workplace safety awareness among all associates.

Administrative Responsibilities

  • Assist with payroll processing, scheduling, attendance tracking, and required store documentation.
  • Learn reporting procedures and office accounting functions.
  • Support completion of required company forms, reports, and records.
  • Assist with timecard review and other administrative functions as assigned.

Store Standards & Facility Maintenance

  • Maintain high standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and organization throughout the store.
  • Assist in ensuring all store equipment, fixtures, and facilities are maintained properly.
  • Monitor sales floor, stockroom, and exterior conditions.
  • Support efforts to maintain a safe and attractive shopping environment.

Qualifications

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, or a related field preferred.

Experience

  • Previous grocery, retail, customer service, or supervisory experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated leadership potential and desire to advance into retail management.
  • Experience working in a fast-paced customer-focused environment preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to learn and apply retail operational processes.
  • Effective communication and leadership potential.
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
  • Basic math, cash handling, and computer skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer systems preferred.
  • Ability to multitask and adapt to changing business needs.

Core Competencies

  • Leadership Potential
  • Customer Focus
  • Communication
  • Accountability
  • Teamwork
  • Learning Agility
  • Problem Solving
  • Adaptability
  • Initiative
  • Time Management
  • Organization
  • Integrity
  • Reliability
  • Coaching & Development

Training & Travel Requirements

This position participates in a structured training program that may require travel to various store locations, training facilities, meetings, and company events. Travel may be necessary to gain exposure to different store operations, leadership teams, and business practices. The Store Manager In Training must be willing and able to travel as needed throughout the training period. Mileage reimbursement and travel accommodations will be provided in accordance with company policy when applicable.

Advancement Opportunity

Successful completion of the Store Manager In Training program may result in promotion to a Store Manager position based on business needs, demonstrated performance, leadership capability, and completion of required training objectives.

Physical Requirements

  • Physical Abilities Lift /Carry
  • Stand F (Frequently) 10 lbs or less C (Constantly)
  • Walk F (Frequently) 11-20 lbs C (Constantly)
  • Sit O (Occasionally) 21-50 lbs F (Frequently)
  • Handling / Fingering C (Constantly) 51-100 lbs F (Frequently)
  • Reach Outward F (Frequently) Over 100 lbs O (Occasionally)
  • Reach Above Shoulder F (Frequently)
  • Climb O (Occasionally)
  • Crawl O (Occasionally)
  • Squat or Kneel F (Frequently)
  • Bend F (Frequently)
  • Push / Pull
  • 12 lbs or less F (Frequently)
  • 13-25 lbs F (Frequently)
  • 26-40 lbs F (Frequently)
  • 41-100 lbs O (Occasionally)

N (Not Applicable) Activity is not applicable to this occupation.

O (Occasionally) Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5+

hrs/day)

F (Frequently) Occupation requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 -

5.5+ hrs/day)

C (Constantly) Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+

hrs/day)

Work Environment

This position operates in a retail grocery environment with frequent exposure to varying temperatures, equipment, and customer traffic. The Store Manager must maintain professionalism and composure in a fast-paced setting.

Additional Information

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as business needs dictate.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Houchen Food Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.


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