Looking ahead with ALDI.
Frequently Asked Questions for Converting Store Employees.
Browse through our frequently asked questions below to learn more about how we interview, our application process, working at ALDI and more. With the knowledge you pick up here, you’ll have the tools you need to wow us in your interviews and launch a great career.
ALDI Growth
Q: What is ALDI’s growth plan?
A: As part of its ambitious national growth strategy, ALDI will be adding over 800 stores nationwide by 2028 through a combination of new store openings and store conversions. The five-year expansion plan will bring even more communities great products at the lowest possible prices.
Q: Why and how has ALDI accelerated growth during a time when others are slowing down?
A: Our growth is led by our customers, and they continue to want more ALDI locations in their communities so they can fill their carts for less. Our quicker, easier shopping experience and great products at the lowest possible prices drive customers to our doors. That value is what keeps them coming back because no one wants to spend more than they have to on groceries. When customers learn they can rely on us for affordable, quality groceries, they keep shopping with us, even when the economy improves.
Q: What is driving demand for ALDI stores in communities?
A: Finding ways to save customers money has always been a part of our mission. We know existing ALDI fans are counting on us, and others who haven’t shopped with us yet are excited to experience the ALDI difference. Once shoppers experience ALDI, they keep coming back. We stock our shelves with only what shoppers want and need, and nothing else, so customers can get in and out. But that doesn’t mean shopping at ALDI is boring. Every week, customers can take grocery shopping from errand to adventure with ALDI Finds, a selection of on-trend, limited-time products including items ranging from unique seasonal foods, home goods, clothing for the whole family, workout equipment, furniture and décor, and so much more. Private label products are our primary offering. Our expert focus here allows us to get the trending items customers love onto our shelves while cutting costs and passing on savings to our customers. For example, when we saw our wine sales reaching double-digit growth, ALDI decided to launch the Specially Selected Wine Collection meant to meet shoppers’ increasing appetite for premium items for less. With Wine Enthusiast naming seven ALDI wines as Best Buys, it's safe to say our customers can rely on ALDI for winning private label selections across categories. With a carefully curated selection of quality fresh groceries at the lowest prices possible, we strive to offer customers the best for a whole lot less.
Q: What makes ALDI confident they will achieve their goal of opening approximately 800 stores by 2028?
A: ALDI has a deep history of rapid nationwide expansion. We opened about 100 stores per year over the past decade and we’re excited to continue our momentum. Our quicker, easier shopping experience and great products at the lowest possible prices drive customers to our doors. That value is what keeps millions of customers across the country shopping our aisles each month because no one wants to spend more than they have to on groceries. We can’t wait for more people to discover ALDI in their community.
Q: Is ALDI focusing on any specific new markets in the years ahead, in addition to the Southeast? Which new markets is ALDI planning on entering?
A: As part of our growth trajectory, ALDI will strengthen its already strong presence in the Northeast and Midwest, adding nearly 330 stores across both regions by the end of 2028. ALDI will also grow its presence in the West by adding more stores in Southern California and Phoenix — and by entering new cities, like Las Vegas.
Q: How does ALDI decide which markets to enter?
A: We’re always exploring opportunities to bring ALDI to new communities across the country and look at every new store as an opportunity to offer more people great products at the lowest possible prices. When it comes to choosing new store locations, we carefully consider several factors like existing shopping options and population growth trends. Above all else, we look for convenient locations for our customers.
Q: Does ALDI plan to have stores in all 50 states? If so, when?
A: Currently, we operate over 2,400 stores in 38 states and Washington D.C., and we’re excited to continue counting new communities as a part of our ALDI footprint. While we can’t say we have plans for all 50 states, we’re growing our presence in the West by adding more stores in Southern California and Phoenix – and by entering new cities like Las Vegas. The continued expansion of our footprint further solidifies ALDI as one of the fastest-growing grocers in the country.
Q: Will new stores have any new features or offerings?
A: ALDI is designed to offer a quicker, easier and more enjoyable shopping experience with great products at the lowest possible prices. These new stores will reflect this same experience that has been time-tested by our shoppers. As one of the fastest-growing retailers in the country, ALDI is committed to making sure our environmental footprint doesn't grow with us. That’s why we’re building and remodeling all of our stores with sustainability top of mind. From energy-efficient LED lighting, to environmentally friendly refrigeration systems, to rooftop solar systems, ALDI is reducing emissions across its stores and warehouses. Through these efforts and more, ALDI is striving to make sustainability affordable and accessible for everyone.
Recruiting / Hiring Process
Q: How long will the hiring process take, and how will I find out whether or not I got the job?
A: The hiring process may vary depending on the role and location. Candidates will receive communication via phone/email/text to keep them updated throughout the entirety of the process. Hiring decisions – whether an offer or decline – will be communicated to all those who interview.
Q: Will I need to go through the full background check process (to include any pre-employment assessment) if I decide to work for an ALDI store?
A: Yes, all job offers are contingent upon ALDI’s receipt of satisfactory results of the pre-employment screening process.
Q: What will the interview process look like?
A: Candidates that apply to a Lead Store Associate (LSA), Assistant Store Manager (ASM) or Store Manager Trainee (SMT) role will be asked to participate in two to three interviews totaling 60-90 mins. Applicants that apply to open Full-Time Store Associate, Part-Time Store Associate, Cashier, or Stocker roles will be prioritized for an interview at nearby locations if all minimum requirements are met.
Q: Where will interviews take place?
A: Interviews will take place in your store, at a neighboring ALDI store, or at a hotel. The location of the interview will be noted in your interview invite.
Q: How should I prepare for the interview?
A: Candidates should prepare for meaningful conversations about their store experience. A resume is not required for ALDI interviews. Additionally, we encourage you to review the content throughout this website and attend our Engagement Events.
Q: Will I be able to work at the converting store location?
A: Store Manager Trainee, Assistant Store Manager and Lead Store Associate applicants will be considered for both the converting store location and nearby ALDI locations. Candidates will be able to discuss any location questions during the interview process and ALDI will be mindful of location preferences where possible. ALDI will identify your anticipated working location if you are extended an offer. Once you have successfully completed training, you may apply to any open roles across the ALDI network to be considered for a transfer.
Applicants that apply to open Full Time Store Associate, Part-Time Store Associate, Cashier, or Stocker roles will be prioritized for an interview at nearby locations if all minimum requirements are met.
Q: Are full-time employees guaranteed 40-hour work weeks?
A: Full-time employees work an average of 30 hours or more per week based on ALDI’s operational schedule. ALDI may make scheduling exceptions to accommodate changes in operational needs.
Q: How many hours will I typically work each week?
A: Hours worked will vary from position to position and week to week based on business needs and seasonality. However, listed below is a summary of average hours by position:
- Store Managers work approximately 50 hours each week.
- Store Manager Trainees work approximately 50 hours each week.
- Assistant Store Managers work approximately 38 hours each week.
- Lead Store Associates work approximately 32-38 hours each week.
- Full Time Store Associates work approximately 32-38 hours each week.
- Part Time positions work less than 30 hours per week, averaging between 10 and 20 hours per week.
Q: What availability does ALDI require?
A: Availability requirements may vary by position and store location and are also based on business needs and seasonality. Please speak with an ALDI representative for more information.
Q: Can I apply to multiple roles?
A: Yes. Candidates interested in working at ALDI can apply to more than one position. By using our job matching tool, you can find the position(s) that best align with your skills and experience. If you are interested in another role, in addition to the one you’ve matched with, you are welcome to apply. Make sure to tell your ALDI interviewer about the roles you’ve applied for during your interview. This allows them to consider you for all positions.
Q: Will I receive training and what will this look like?
A: Absolutely! Our effective and impactful training program has been skillfully created for every new ALDI employee. Approximate training timelines are outlined below by position:
- Store Manager Trainee (SMT): ~4-6 months
- Assistant Store Manager (ASM): ~12 weeks
- Lead Store Associate (LSA): ~6 weeks
- Store Associate, Stocker, and Cashier (PT or FT): ~2 weeks
Q: What is the Store Manager Trainee (SMT) program?
A: As a Store Manager Trainee, you will complete a ~4-6 month training program designed to prepare you to take over an ALDI store. You will train across all positions in the store; working your way up from a Store Associate to a Store Manager. The program time may vary based on candidate readiness and Store Manager position openings. However, the program is not intended to last longer than one year. After completion of the SMT program, and approval from your leader, you should begin applying to internal Store Manager positions for placement.
Q: How do I become a Store Manager?
A: Store Managers are promoted from the Assistant Store Manager and Store Manager Trainee roles. Candidates are eligible to apply for Store Manager positions upon successful completion of the training program and are encouraged to sign up for job alerts to stay informed of upcoming opportunities. Please speak with an ALDI representative at Engagement Event for further information.
Q: Will I be expected to travel while I train or while waiting for the new ALDI store to open?
A: ALDI is committed to providing you with top quality training. While we will strive to place as many people as possible at our nearest locations, you may be asked to travel to receive your training. Additionally, there may be times when overnight travel is required for training. If overnight travel is required, ALDI will cover expenses relating to meals, hotels, and mileage (stipulations apply). Please speak with an ALDI representative at Engagement Event about training options in your area.
Q: What is the dress code at ALDI?
A: All store employees are required to wear dark or khaki pants, or denim jeans. ALDI will provide employees with shirts, a fleece jacket, and reimbursement for approved safety shoes.
Q: What district, regional or distribution center opportunities are available?
A: All open positions are posted on careers.aldi.us. Candidates may visit the site to sign up for job alerts and to apply to open positions. Employees will be prioritized for interviews for any open store and warehouse positions in the Southeast. Please speak with an ALDI representative at Engagement Event for further information.
Q: How will I know if the job is a lateral role, promotion, or demotion?
A: The job matching tool included in careers.aldi.us/SEGopportunities will help ensure applicants apply for the role that best matches their current role.
Q: Am I able to shadow a role in an ALDI store to better understand the role?
A: While shadowing roles is not available, day on the job videos have been specifically created for applicants to better understand ALDI stores and the positions that will be available. Visit careers.aldi.us/SEGopportunities for more information.
Benefits
Q: What can you tell me about ALDI’s medical, dental, vision and prescription benefits?
A: These will be discussed during the interview and recruiting process. Further details will also be provided upon contingent job offer.
Q: If I join ALDI, when will my benefits (i.e., medical, dental, vision, life/AD&D, short-term disability, long-term disability) go into effect?
A: Full time employees at ALDI will be eligible for benefits at 90 days from date of hire or status change. To secure coverage, enrollment in medical, dental, vision, and voluntary life benefits plans must be completed within 60 days from date of hire or status change.
There is no enrollment action required for employer-paid basic life, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), short- and long-term disability benefit plans. You will be automatically enrolled into these plans at no cost to you. Beneficiary designation for life insurance benefits can be done at any time in MyHR.
Q: What are ALDI’s paid time-off benefits?
A: We offer generous vacation and sick time to our employees. Paid time off benefits differ by role and are included in the position specific benefits summary.
Q: Are there any blackout dates for taking vacation?
A: For store employees, there are no blackout dates. Store employees must request time off per the Schedule Request Procedure, and store managers should make every effort to approve requested time off.
Store managers are required to work a specified number of days during the weeks of the Super Bowl, Easter, Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Super Bowl | Work 2 out of 3 days (Friday - Sunday) on Super Bowl weekend |
Easter | Work 1 out of 2 days (Friday - Saturday) before Easter |
Independence Day | Work 2 out of 3 days between 7/1 - 7/3 |
Thanksgiving | Work 3 out of 5 days between Saturday through Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving with no consecutive days off |
Christmas | Work 3 out of 5 days between 12/19 - 12/23 with no consecutive days off |
Additionally, store managers are required to work at least one weekend day each week and a minimum of one Saturday and one Sunday per calendar month. However, we do allow store managers to take one weekend off (Saturday and Sunday) per calendar month!
Q: Will my tenure be recognized by ALDI for compensation?
A: Pay at ALDI is determined by the role and location to which an employee is hired. Tenure does not impact pay.
Q: How is pay determined at ALDI?
A: Pay at ALDI is determined by the role and location into which an employee is hired. Pay information for specific roles is included in each ALDI job posting.
Q: What is the starting pay for my position?
A: ALDI offers competitive wages and benefits across our 2,400+ locations. Pay information for specific roles is included in each ALDI job postings.
Q: Are store manager bonuses guaranteed or performance based?
A: Bonuses are not guaranteed as they are based on monthly store sales; however, approximately 98% of store managers in the Southeast qualified for bonuses in 2023. Bonuses are paid monthly.