I applied in-person. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (Chicago, IL) in Feb 2012
Interview
The hiring process is like jumping through hoops. You have to turn in your application in store, and at the right time of day, to the right manager working. If you don't already work at the store or have friends working there, this can be very hard to manage. If you don't work this step just right you have a good chance your application will end up in the recycling. After this you have to be persistent with following up, but not overly so, this means both calling and going into the store, again timing is everything. If you don't have full availability (especially nights and weekends) then good luck.
The actual interview varies. It may be one, two, or even three managers in the interview, and there can be up to three interviews before you might get the job. Sometimes there will only be one interview. This all seems to vary on the need for employees and the managers involved with hiring. It's generally a fairly "relaxed" interview, though if you care much you probably won't feel relaxed.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Good/ Bad customer experience examples, how you work with teams and difficult customer experiences. Thoughts on food. Why do you want to work for Trader Joe's. Can you work nights or early mornings (They say 5am-Midnight, but shifts start as early as 3am at some stores and some go till 2am, so be prepared for that)
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.