I applied in-person. The process took 1+ week. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (New York, NY) in Feb 2012
Interview
You fill out the application in store and meet immediately with a manager who asks you a series of questions. In addition they assess your knowledge of the store and culture. It helps to be prepared by shopping at the store, studying the website and tasting the food. There was a second interview and then a series of group training sessions at the end of which you were put into the system.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
They ask how did you hear about us, why you want to work here and what is your favorite product.
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.
I had 3 separate interviews. 1 was over the phone. 2 were in person. I never heard anything after the third interview. I called the store about a week later and they let me know they didn’t actually have any available positions. Really felt like they wasted my time.