Dynamic Coach & Operations Management Trainee – Hybrid Remote Role Supporting Walmart Store Excellence in Hickory, NC

About Walmart – The World’s Largest Retail Innovator

Walmart’s mission is simple yet powerful: help people save money so they can live better. From humble beginnings in a single store in Arkansas, Walmart has grown into a global retail powerhouse with more than 10,000 locations and an e‑commerce footprint that reaches millions of customers daily. Our culture is built on service, innovation, and inclusion. We invest heavily in technology, sustainability, and community outreach, ensuring that every associate has the tools and support to make a real impact on the lives of shoppers across the globe.

As a Coach & Operations Management Trainee based in Hickory, NC, you will be an essential conduit between corporate strategy and store‑level execution. This hybrid position allows you to work remotely while still experiencing the dynamic, fast‑paced environment of a Walmart store. If you thrive on mentoring, analytics, and operational excellence, this is your launchpad to a rewarding career in retail leadership.

Why This Role Is a Game‑Changer for Your Career

Walmart’s leadership development pathways are renowned for turning ambitious talent into senior executives. As a trainee, you will rotate through core functions—people development, customer experience, financial performance, and compliance—gaining hands‑on experience that few companies can match. The role is designed to sharpen your strategic thinking, enhance your people‑management capabilities, and deepen your understanding of retail financials.

Beyond the technical skills, you will join a community that celebrates diversity, encourages continuous learning, and rewards performance with competitive compensation, robust benefits, and clear pathways for promotion.

Key Responsibilities – What You’ll Own Every Day

• People Development & Coaching
  • Lead, train, and mentor store associates through structured “Tour‑to‑Teach” sessions that blend on‑the‑job observation with actionable feedback.
  • Facilitate weekly coaching circles aimed at enhancing communication, problem‑solving, and customer‑service excellence.
  • Champion Walmart’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring every associate feels valued and empowered.
• Customer Experience Leadership
  • Model the One Best Way (OBW) service standards, setting a benchmark for superior shopper interactions.
  • Oversee community outreach programs such as “Store of the Community,” driving local engagement and brand loyalty.
  • Resolve escalated customer complaints, turning challenges into opportunities for service recovery and brand advocacy.
• Financial & Operational Performance
  • Analyze profit & loss (P&L) statements for your assigned store area, identifying trends and recommending corrective actions.
  • Partner with the merchandising team to ensure optimal product placement, seasonal transitions, and inventory flow.
  • Implement shrink‑reduction strategies and monitor expense ratios to meet or exceed sales and profit targets.
• Talent Acquisition & Workforce Management
  • Participate in recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding new hourly associates.
  • Design and execute training plans that accelerate new‑hire productivity and retention.
  • Maintain a clear performance management cadence: set expectations, provide regular feedback, and recognize achievements.
• Stakeholder Collaboration & Project Execution
  • Build strong relationships with cross‑functional partners—logistics, merchandising, loss prevention, and corporate ops—to align on store‑wide initiatives.
  • Lead or contribute to pilot programs, technology rollouts, and process‑improvement projects.
  • Utilize Walmart’s Open Door Policy to raise concerns, share ideas, and drive continuous improvement.
• Compliance & Ethical Standards
  • Ensure all store activities comply with corporate policies, local regulations, and safety standards.
  • Promote ethical conduct and integrity, acting as a role model for associates at every level.
  • Complete mandatory training modules (e.g., Academy, Open Door) and maintain certifications as required.

Essential Qualifications – What You Need to Succeed

• Minimum of two years of college education or a combination of retail experience (1+ year) and supervisory experience (1+ year).
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team of at least five direct reports, encompassing hiring, performance coaching, and termination when necessary.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience reviewing financial statements, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Excellent communication skills—both verbal and written—to effectively convey expectations, provide feedback, and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency with Walmart’s technology platforms (e.g., WMT Retail Systems, workforce management tools).
• Flexibility to work a hybrid schedule: remote days combined with on‑site presence for store tours, coaching sessions, and community events.
• Ability to pass any required background checks, including firearms‑related checks if applicable to the specific store location.

Preferred Qualifications – Nice‑to‑Have Extras

• Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Leadership, or a related field (e.g., Live Better U, Bellevue University).
• Certificate of Completion in People and Business Leadership from a recognized institution.
• Prior experience supervising a larger team (10+ associates) with a focus on performance management and talent development.
• Familiarity with lean‑six sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Exposure to community outreach or corporate social‑responsibility initiatives.

Core Skills & Competencies – The DNA of a High‑Performing Trainee

• Leadership Presence – Ability to inspire confidence, motivate teams, and drive alignment around shared goals.
• Customer‑Centric Thinking – A relentless focus on delivering an exceptional shopper experience.
• Financial Acumen – Comfort interpreting P&L statements, managing budgets, and making data‑driven decisions.
• Coaching & Mentoring – Skilled at identifying development opportunities and delivering constructive feedback.
• Analytical Problem‑Solving – Ability to dissect complex issues, identify root causes, and implement sustainable solutions.
• Adaptability & Resilience – Thrives in a fast‑changing environment, balancing multiple priorities with poise.
• Collaboration & Influence – Works effectively across functions, building consensus and driving collective outcomes.
• Technological Proficiency – Comfortable navigating retail software, data dashboards, and digital communication tools.

Career Growth – Your Pathway to Leadership

Walmart invests heavily in internal talent. As a Coach & Operations Management Trainee, you will be part of a structured development program that includes:

• Mentorship Pairing – Direct access to senior leaders who guide your professional journey.
• Rotational Assignments – Exposure to multiple store functions, enhancing breadth of experience.
• Leadership Training – Access to Live Better U courses, Walmart Academy, and industry‑specific certifications.
• Performance‑Based Promotions – Clear criteria for moving from trainee to Assistant Manager, then Store Manager, and beyond.
• Networking Opportunities – Participation in regional and national conferences, community events, and cross‑functional project teams.

Work Environment & Culture – What It’s Like to Be a Walmart Associate

Walmart prides itself on an inclusive, collaborative, and high‑energy environment. As a member of the Hickory team you will experience:

• Hybrid Flexibility – A blend of remote work for administrative and analytical tasks and on‑site days for coaching, store tours, and community engagement.
• Diversity & Inclusion – Programs that celebrate varied perspectives and foster an atmosphere where every voice matters.
• Safety First – Rigorous health & safety protocols, plus continuous training on emergency response and workplace ergonomics.
• Recognition Programs – Quarterly awards, peer‑to‑peer shout‑outs, and performance bonuses that celebrate excellence.
• Community Connection – Opportunities to lead local charitable initiatives and partnership events that deepen Walmart’s role in the Hickory area.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits – More Than Just a Salary

Walmart offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support you and your family at every stage of life:

• Base Salary – Market‑aligned, commensurate with experience and location.
• Health & Wellness – Multiple medical plans, vision, dental, and prescription coverage for you and eligible dependents.
• Financial Security – 401(k) with company match, stock purchase plan, life insurance, and short‑term/long‑term disability coverage.
• Paid Time Off – Generous vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and paid holidays.
• Education Assistance – Tuition reimbursement for associate and dependent education, plus access to Walmart’s internal learning platforms.
• Associate Discounts – Savings on in‑store and online purchases for you and your family.
• Military Support – Paid military leave and resources for veterans transitioning back to civilian work.
• Well‑Being Programs – Employee assistance services, wellness challenges, and mental‑health resources.

Specific benefit eligibility may vary based on job classification and length of service; detailed information is provided during the onboarding process.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about developing talent, driving operational excellence, and shaping the future of retail, we want to hear from you. This is more than a job – it’s an invitation to become part of a global team that values innovation, community, and personal growth.

Take the Next Step

Apply today and start your journey with Walmart, where every associate has the power to help people live better.

Apply Now