• How do I apply for a job at one of your stores?
• I heard that you're opening a new store near me; can I apply before it opens?
• What is the difference between a part time and a full time employee?
• What is Novitiate? (And how in the world do you say it?)
• I applied on-line for a Store Leadership position, what happens next?
• Do I have to start as a Part Time Crew Member to become a manager?
• Do you offer health benefits to part time employees?
• I'm still attending college; can I be scheduled around my classes?
• Do you offer internships?
• Why is everyone so happy and positive here? Do they put something in the water?

1. How do I apply for a job at one of your stores?

We want to meet you in person, so we encourage you to stop by and fill out an application at the store or click here to download an application that you can print out, fill in and submit in person. To find out if a store near you is hiring, you can call the store or just drop by and see if they are currently accepting applications. You can also search jobs online here. Each store hires its own Crew and all applications must be submitted at the store.Back to top

2. I heard that you're opening a new store near me; can I apply before it opens?

When a new store is scheduled to open, the store Captain and First Mate are responsible for hiring a store full of Crew Members. Applications are accepted in person about one to two months before the store opens. You can check the job search section of our website to see if the store has posted their job openings online yet. Also, if you live near the new store location, be sure to be on the lookout for a "Now Hiring" banner or sign at the store.Back to top

3. What is the difference between a part time and a full time employee?

Part Time Crew Members work up to 40 hours a week and do not supervise other Crew Members. Full Time Crew Members are scheduled either 40 or 47.5 hours per week and are supervisors. Full time positions include three levels of hourly supervisors: Novitiate, Specialist, and Merchant; and two levels of salaried management: Second/First Mate (assistant manager) and Commander/Captain (manager).Back to top

4. What is a Novitiate? (And how in the world do you say it?)

A Novitiate (noh-vish-ee-it) is simply our equivalent to an entry-level supervisor. It is the highest level position we hire into, and the first step on the path to Store Management at Trader Joe's. Once you get your sea legs as a Novitiate, you're promoted to the next level of Store Leadership — the role of Specialist. View the full Trader Joe's illustrated career path here.Back to top

5. I applied on-line for a Store Leadership position, what happens next?

Here at Trader Joe's, we review each and every résumé we receive… and we receive a ton! We're thrilled that you enjoy our stores enough to explore a career with us. If you are selected for a telephone interview for the Novitiate or RMT positions, we will contact you via email to get it set up.Back to top

6. Do I have to start as a Part Time Crew Member to become a manager?

Absolutely not! It's worth noting however, that 80% of our current managers started as Part Time Crew Members. How's that for promoting from within?! We review Part Time Crew Member performance twice a year and constantly seek to develop our internal staff. However, we do consider individuals with strong retail experience for the full time position of Novitiate. Take a look at our Career Path. If you're interested in a Novitiate position, look for openings in your area.Back to top

7. Do you offer health benefits to part time employees?

You bet! Part Time Crew Members are eligible for medical, dental and vision coverage after meeting the eligibility requirements. Most Crew Members qualify after a couple of months.Back to top

8. I'm still attending college; can I be scheduled around my classes?

Maybe. Our employment application allows you to list your availability. This availability is essential information that the store will use to determine whether your schedule is compatible with store needs. Your unique scheduling needs should be discussed at time of application.Back to top

9. Do you offer internships?

We do not offer internships at this time. However, many students choose to work in our stores part time. This is a great way to earn extra money, have fun, and begin your career with Trader Joe's. For part time positions, you can apply in person at your local Trader Joe's.Back to top

10. Why is everyone so happy and positive here? Do they put something in the water?

Hmmm… We get this one a lot. Understand, we can neither confirm nor deny any reports of "something in the water." But one taste of all the terrific food and beverages in our stores and we think you'll be smiling, too!Back to top