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

As a New Store Merchandise Planner you will be playing a critical role in the successful launch of new retail locations by overseeing and coordinating all merchandising activities involved in preparing the store for opening. This position will manange the project timeline, supervise teams responsible for fixturing, merchandise receiving, and set-up, and ensure that the store meets brand standards. This is a hands-on role requireing strong project management skills, merchansising expertise, and the ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast paced environment. 

• Lead and manage all aspects of the store opening project, including the resource planning, and coordination with cross-functional teams.
• Oversee the delivery and installation of store fixtures, ensuring alignment with store layout and merchandising guidelines.
• Coordinate the receiving and processing of all merchandise, ensuring accurate inventory counts, organized storage, and adherence to receiving protocols.
• Direct team members in setting up displays and arranging products in accordance with company merchandising standards, ensuring a visually appealing and shopper-friendly store environment.
• Supervise and provide guidance to a team of merchandisers, fixture installers, and other support staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Work with third-party vendors and suppliers involved in the project, ensuring timely delivery and setup of merchandise and fixtures.
• Conduct regular walkthroughs to assess merchandising standards, fixture quality, and store readiness, addressing any issues proactively.
• Provide on-site training and support to team members, ensuring all are knowledgeable of company policies, procedures, and merchandising expectations.
• Act as the point of contact for any issues that arise during the store set-up process, providing swift and effective solutions to keep the project on track.
• Provide regular status updates and final project reports to upper management, detailing the store’s readiness for opening day.
• 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 3 years of retail experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Physical Requirements  

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Able 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 tasks.

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