I applied in-person. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (Minneapolis, MN) in Aug 2012
Interview
I went in for an application, and got into an interview the same week. I interviewed first with a supervisor. After that, they send you on to interview with the main store manager. Each interview was very friendly and easy to talk to the interviewer.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a customer who you have built a relationship with in the past?
It was quick and seamless and they let me know in ample time. It was a painless process and the crew was quick to give honest opinions about working there. The Captain changed but at the time turnover wasn't high.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Why do you want to work at Trader Joes and do you have any favorite products.
Applied online and had one in person interview with the captain. It lasted maybe 10 minutes. Got a call a week or so later that I got the job. Very fast process.
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.