I applied in-person. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Trader Joe's in Mar 2016
Interview
I called my local store to ask if they were hiring. When they said yes, they told me I could pick up an application in the store. I found it on the website, so I completed it and brought it in. The mate at the desk spoke with me for a few minutes, asking me a few questions. These were basic, such as discussing my past work experience and why I wanted to work there. She then said that they would give me a call back in a week to set up a formal interview. A week later, I got the call and set up a time for an interview. I met with another mate and spent about 45 minutes speaking to him. He asked the basic questions, but also some listed below. (ALSO he asked if I had questions for him about the store, which I did. Make sure to ask them if you are going in for an interview. It shows you're interested.) He said that no matter what the outcome was, they would let me know. Lo and behold, less than a week later, I got the job!
Interview questions [3]
Question 1
What was your least favorite experience in customer service?
It's two to three interviews, the final with the Captain (or highest manager) of the store. The interviews are largely to get to know your personality and how well you would do at customer service.
The interview process was absolutely wonderful! I didn't feel stressed or nervous and it felt like I was just chatting with a friend! Trader Joes is a great company and the interview was great.
Very chill, asked things a lot of job interviews don't, more personal down to earth questions. Made me feel very comfortable. Professional but also cool vibes from everyone who interviewed me. Went to one interview with mates and another with the captain.