Early Talent - 2026 - D13 OH South - Store Leadership Trainee

Store Leadership Trainee Program

As a Store Leadership Trainee (SLT), you will participate in a structured training program to prepare you for the role of Merchandising Manager or Operations Manager (Assistant Store Manager) at a Kohl’s store. During the Store Leadership Trainee Program (SLT Program), you will learn aspects of what it takes to run a successful, thriving business, from Human Resources, Operations, Merchandising, Team Development, Omni-channel Management and more.

Those new to Kohl’s will train for 8 weeks, while Internal participants may train for a shorter period of time. Kohl’s offers trainee start dates in February, May and July based on business needs.

Following the SLT Program

At the end of the SLT Program, Kohl’s, in its sole discretion, will determine if there is an opportunity to continue employment as a Merchandising Manager or an Operations Manager (Assistant Store Manager). Kohl’s may consider factors such as performance, availability and its business needs. The career path of a Store Leadership Trainee is : SLT, Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager, District Manager.

What You’ll Do

Discover Kohl’s store structure, areas of ownership and team responsibilities

Learn all store operations and processes

Engage in daily hands-on experiences including in-store merchandising, visual standards and continual product movement

Work closely with a Coach, Mentor and HR Business Partners to learn how to effectively lead, motivate, and drive engagement among a team

Join weekly touch bases with the Store Manager to recap the prior week’s training, align on the new week, share feedback and connect on needs

Lead with a customer-first mindset, demonstrate integrity and accountability, be a creative problem solver and foster an empathetic and inclusive culture

Cultivate business acumen skills and learn how to make operationally sound business decisions

Participate in dedicated programming to strengthen development and gain exposure to Kohl’s leadership

Analyze sales and market trends to drive profitability while maintaining a strong customer-first mindset

Support schedule execution, sales projections and payroll management

Participate in Leader on Duty shifts to provide a Customer First experience

What Skills You Have

Associate’s or Bachelor's degree required (or expected completion within approximately 3 months of starting the SLT Program)

Less than 18 months of retail management leadership experience

Flexible schedule, work hours will be based on business needs; must be available nights and weekends

Highly adaptable and self-motivated

Must be 18 years of age or older

Great verbal / written communication and interpersonal skills

Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills

Ability to make quick decisions and resolve conflicts

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Strong analytical skills and superior critical thinking skills

Strong people management skills and ability to develop talent

Flexible availability, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays