Warehouse Operations Management Trainee (California)
The Warehouse Operations Management Trainee at Confidential Client is an entry-level, hands-on training role designed to develop future operations leaders within the distribution warehouse environment. Over a 6-month program, trainees gain comprehensive experience across operations, management, and purchasing, culminating in eligibility for supervisory or managerial positions nationwide. This role emphasizes leadership development, operational knowledge, and customer service within the swimming pool supply and landscape distribution industry.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, outdoor living products distribution (swimming pool, irrigation & landscape supplies).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking motivated early-career candidates for an entry-level Management in Training — Operations (MIT) program based in a distribution warehouse. This hands-on, six-month program prepares trainees for operations leadership roles (Operations Supervisor / Operations Manager) across the company’s nationwide distribution network. Training is on-site; successful program graduates should be willing to relocate for career development (relocation assistance provided).
What You’ll Do
You will rotate through core distribution functions and receive classroom instruction to learn distribution operations, financial fundamentals, leadership, and operating systems.
- Receive hands-on training across Operations, Management, and Purchasing.
- Observe and learn methods, procedures, and performance standards from experienced staff.
- Shadow contractors, service/maintenance teams, and retail customers to understand end-to-end business needs.
- Attend classroom sessions (lecture, role play, computer lab) at the EDGEucation Center covering operations, financials, leadership, human capital management and systems.
- Prepare and deliver a comprehensive presentation to senior management at program completion.
- Support special projects and other duties as assigned.
Who We’re Looking For (Minimum Qualifications)
- Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Industrial Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Management, Operations, or related field with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
- Leadership or problem-solving experience — internships, organizational leadership, athletics, volunteer work, or military leadership may substitute.
- Willingness and ability to work in a distribution warehouse environment.
- Results-driven self-starter with strong leadership potential and the ability to manage changing priorities.
- Customer-service orientation and a motivated, passionate attitude.
- Willingness to relocate during and after the program (company-paid relocation assistance).
- Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.
- Ability to operate/maneuver pallet jacks, forklifts, and lift up to 75 pounds.
Preferred Skills
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn inventory systems and other software.
- Prior involvement in distribution/supply-chain internships or similar hands-on experiences.
Location & Training Details
Hiring locations for initial on-site training in California include multiple distribution centers (examples listed during screening). Training is held on-site; after completing the six-month program (training concluding in May for this posting), trainees will be expected to relocate out of state for career placement — relocation assistance will be provided.
Compensation & Benefits
- Wage in California: $28.85 per hour (based on full-time schedule). Actual pay may vary based on skills and experience.
- Role may be eligible for discretionary bonuses, commission plans, or cost-of-living adjustments.
- Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and disability insurance, prescription coverage, flexible spending/HSA options, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan, education reimbursement, and paid time off. Benefits are subject to change.
Compliance, Safety & Hiring Process
- This is a safety-sensitive position; all offers are contingent on successful pre-employment drug testing and background verification.
- Confidential Client will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with applicable local ordinances (e.g., Los Angeles Fair Chance/Hiring Initiative; San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance).
- Confidential Client is committed to a safe, inclusive workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Why This Role Matters
This MIT program is an accelerated pathway into operations leadership within the outdoor living products distribution industry. If you want a hands-on, fast-paced start to a supply chain or distribution management career — with formal training, clear advancement opportunities, and relocation support — this role is designed for you.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range