Gone are the days of Good pay and benefits
Pros
Worked at Trader Joe's for 6+ years. It used to be one of the best companies to work for. Pay and benefits were well above average. Employees received a generous retirement package and paid time off. Management was fair, respectful, and courteous. However, this is no longer the case. The company has gone downhill, taking advantage of employees by working them to the ground and not compensating you fairly. Quarterly reviews are now bi-annual reviews, in which employees rarely receive even a $.50 raise. Prior to these changes, employees were eligible for a $1 raise every 3 months (which I received on numerous accounts). Additionally, the generous company retirement package has been reduced to a measly 401K plan. The days of selling unique, high-quality products from around the world are gone and have been replaced with cheap, unhealthy products in flashy packages (just look at the sodium and sugar content in most of the food - its ridiculous!). It seems corporate spends more on product marketing than employee satisfaction and well-being.The company has lost sight of its bedrock principles of integrity and respect, and has given in to corporate greed. Trader Joe's is now just another mainstream grocery store.
Cons
Daily tasks can become routine and repetitive. Lack of growth, unless you are interested in store management (would not recommend). The job is also very taxing on your body, so make sure to practice safe lifting techniques and don't hesitate to ASK for help! The job is not worth the damage it inflicts upon your body from heavy lifting and repetitive movement.