Management Trainee
Company : Dayton Freight
Location : Rockford, IL, 61109
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 29 December 2025
Overview
The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to become part of a team, expand upon their experience, actively participate in all areas of Dayton Freight's operations, as well as gain knowledge of our Company, culture, and the Transportation Industry. Additionally, the program educates each individual on future-based leadership skills so that upon completion of the 24-weeks, they are confident and competent to take on a management position within our Company.
Responsibilities
- Learn the LTL Industry
- Gain experience in the Operation
- Develop Leadership skills
Qualifications
- Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
- Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center
- Must be willing to work a rotation of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift
Benefits
- Stable and growing organization
- Fast paced work environment
- Internal advancement opportunities
- Competitive weekly pay
- Modern facilities and technology
- Unique leadership opportunity
- Travel
- Comprehensive benefits package: Health, 401(k), Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
- Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
Starting Pay: $60,000 per year. This amount reflects total compensation (base + bonus).
Pay does vary depending on relevant industry experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Rockford's logistics and transportation sectors are growing, which increases demand for Management Trainees at companies like Dayton Freight. However, competition remains moderate as many recent graduates seek entry-level management experience locally, making proactive networking and relevant internships valuable.
Moving to Rockford for a Management Trainee position may involve adapting to a midwestern work culture emphasizing teamwork and operational efficiency. Cost of living is reasonable, but candidates should prepare for shift rotations that might affect daily routines and local commuting patterns.
For Management Trainees in logistics, mastering operational workflows, leadership fundamentals, and problem-solving under pressure is key. Enhancing communication and understanding supply chain nuances will greatly boost effectiveness in hands-on roles within dynamic freight companies.
A strong Management Trainee candidate demonstrates adaptability, initiative in learning, and the ability to collaborate across departments. Developing decision-making confidence early, coupled with eagerness to embrace rotational shifts, positions beginners for future managerial responsibilities.
Management Trainee roles uniquely blend operational experience with leadership training, focusing on preparing candidates for supervisory duties. Unlike purely operational trainees, these roles emphasize strategic thinking alongside hands-on logistics exposure, accelerating readiness for management.
Dayton Freight’s Management Trainee program offers a comprehensive 24-week immersive experience that rotates through shifts and departments, providing exposure to real-time operations and leadership development within a fast-paced, technology-driven environment.
Yes, Dayton Freight encourages internal promotion by equipping Management Trainees with leadership skills and operational knowledge. Successful completion of the program often leads to management roles, fostering a clear career trajectory within the transportation industry.
Starting pay for the Management Trainee position at Dayton Freight in Rockford is approximately $60,000 annually, combining base salary and bonuses. This competitive package reflects industry standards and may vary based on prior relevant experience.
Rotating through 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts requires flexibility and adaptability, affecting sleep patterns and social routines. Trainees in Rockford should plan commuting and personal schedules accordingly, as shift work is critical for comprehensive operational exposure.