About us

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 130 locations across 13 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

What You’ll do

The HR Manager serves as a key partner, driving HR initiatives and fostering a supportive and engaging workplace at the Store Support Center in Mattoon, IL. This role focuses on associate relations and retention programs, while also supervising daily HR operations and supporting cross-functional collaboration. This person works closely with leaders and associates to create a positive work environment and ensure HR initiatives align with the company’s goals and values.

• Act as the primary HR point of contact for the Store Support Center.
• Develop and execute initiatives that enhance associate engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
• Champion Rural King’s participation in local events, programs, and initiatives to promote a positive workplace culture and continued community involvement.
• Partner with leaders to identify and implement solutions for improving team dynamics and morale.
• Monitor engagement trends and recommend proactive measures to address opportunities for improvement.
• Coach and mentor leaders to strengthen their skills in managing teams and fostering a positive work environment.
• Support leadership in delivering effective communication and feedback to associates.
• Investigate and manage sensitive issues, including complaints and disciplinary actions, with professionalism and discretion.
• Lead associates in a way that exemplifies the leadership principles taught in Rural King’s Thrive Leadership Program.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
• Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King’s Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 5 years of HR and management experience and Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Professional Certification of PHR or SHRM-CP preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn HR Systems.
• Proven experience in effectively supervising and leading a diverse team, guiding them toward achieving department goals and objectives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas, instructions, and information clearly and concisely.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build rapport, listen actively, and communicate effectively with a diverse range of individuals.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
• Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
• Close vision for computer-related activities.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.