Management Trainee
Company : Dayton Freight
Location : Des Plaines, IL, 60016
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
A Management Trainee at Dayton Freight should showcase adaptability, proactive communication, and strategic problem-solving abilities. Demonstrating eagerness to learn the LTL industry nuances and collaborating effectively with different teams accelerates career advancement within this dynamic transportation environment.
This program immerses trainees in hands-on tasks across operations, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills. Exposure to multiple shifts and service centers builds flexibility and comprehensive knowledge, equipping participants to confidently manage teams and business challenges after completing the 24-week curriculum.
Candidates with a valid bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, willingness to relocate within service centers, and flexibility to work rotating shifts stand out. An interest in logistics and leadership potential further enhances prospects amidst Des Plaines’ competitive transportation sector.
Dayton Freight offers a starting total compensation of approximately $60,000 annually, blending base salary and bonuses. This figure aligns competitively with regional industry standards for entry-level management training roles, reflecting the area’s cost of living and logistics market demands.
Rotating between first, second, and third shifts requires adaptability to varied operational tempos and team dynamics. Trainees must adjust personal routines to maintain productivity and communication, which is crucial in maintaining seamless freight operations within Des Plaines’ fast-paced environment.
Des Plaines' strategic location near Chicago makes it a logistics hotspot with growing demand for entry-level managers. This competitive hiring landscape rewards candidates who combine relevant education with willingness to relocate and work flexible hours, creating promising prospects within Dayton Freight’s expanding teams.
Dayton Freight’s program offers a unique blend of hands-on industry exposure, leadership development, and rotation across shifts and service centers. This comprehensive approach, combined with competitive pay and modern facilities, fosters rapid growth unmatched by typical operation manager trainee roles.
The company emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and innovation within a fast-paced setting. Trainees benefit from a supportive environment where diverse operational insights and future-based leadership skills are nurtured, preparing them for impactful management roles post-training.
Daily tasks include analyzing freight operations, participating in team meetings, and managing workflow across shifts. Trainees also engage in problem-solving related to logistics challenges, gaining practical leadership experience vital to overseeing smooth transportation processes.
While prior industry experience is advantageous, the program is designed to equip recent graduates with foundational knowledge through immersive training. Enthusiasm for learning and leadership aptitude are critical factors for thriving in this entry-level management training role.