Innovation Center Associate

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 150 locations across 17 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 Smart Dollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

As an Innovation Center Associate you will be responsible for carrying out both the daily tasking orders and assigned tasks. As a support role, these activities center around the smooth operation of the Innovation Center in maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe environment while handling product samples from receipt through disposition.

• Carry out the daily tasking orders without exception including but not limited to: collecting excess plastic, cardboard and trash and disposing appropriately; collecting excess samples and sorting them; receiving and processing all inbound samples via courier, LTL and other sources, routing them to their final destination; collecting, tabulating, and preparing all outbound samples; coordinating pickups and drop offs; and related tasks.
• Carry out daily assigned tasks ranging from organization of samples and storage, building or removing fixtures, disassembling planograms for disposition, and other similar tasks as assigned.
• 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

• At least 1 year of retail experience preferred or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Ability to access and use the computer, scanning system, and wireless handheld unit.
• Good verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong ability to take direction and complete tasks as assigned.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing conditions.
• Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Licensed in the operation of a Forklift or the ability to obtain such.
• Excellent customer service skills.

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 50 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.

The pay range for this position is $15.00 - $16.50 per hour and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. Eligible associates may also receive overtime pay in compliance with applicable laws. To learn more about our benefits, review here