Intern

Job Description

Here’s a detailed and enriched job description for the Intern position at Rural King:

Job Title: Intern

About Rural King: America’s Farm and Home Store

Rural King is dedicated to providing essential products and a unique shopping experience to the communities we serve. As “America’s Farm and Home Store,” we offer a wide array of necessities, from food and feed to farm and home products, across more than 150 locations in 17 states. With annual sales exceeding $2.5 Billion, our operations are constantly expanding, and our corporate heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

Our customers value the distinctive shopping experience we provide, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee – a small gesture that reflects our appreciation for their support. At Rural King, we are committed to our associates, fostering a positive and rewarding workplace. We pride ourselves on offering significant growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals can passionately serve rural communities. Join us, and you’ll discover not just a job, but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Why Join the Rural King Team? How We Reward You:

• Competitive Compensation: A maximum of $16.00 per hour, with exact compensation determined by relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. Eligible associates may also receive overtime pay in compliance with applicable laws.
• Financial Growth: A 401(k) plan featuring a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive healthcare plans to support your needs, including virtual doctor visits and access to renowned Centers of Excellence like Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program.
• Exclusive Perks: A 15% Associate Discount on Rural King products.
• Financial Education: Access to Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program to help you achieve financial peace.
• Associate Support: Robust support systems including an Associate Assistance Program, the RK Cares Associate Hardship Program, and 24/7 Chaplaincy Services.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for growth and learning in a people-first environment.

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits, please review here: Rural King Benefits

About the Rural King Internship Program: What You’ll Do

The Rural King Internship Program is designed to offer highly motivated and successful individuals a valuable opportunity to develop skills and knowledge directly related to their area of degree focus. As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience in the retail industry through initiatives specific to your assigned department. Your responsibilities will be tailored to the needs of the department and its line of business specialization.

• Provide entry to intermediate-level professional services under the direct supervision of a lead associate, aligning with departmental objectives.
• Actively participate in critical projects, with the unique chance to directly impact the business in an innovative and fast-paced environment.
• Contribute to projects specifically designed to develop professional skills and expertise relevant to your assigned department.
• Collaborate effectively with other associates to complete projects and manage day-to-day operational tasks.
• Receive invaluable guidance, comprehensive training, and mentorship from experienced department team members to successfully carry out activities and assignments.
• Offer constructive suggestions and feedback to management to continually improve internal processes and procedures.
• Learn and become proficient in various software systems essential to the department’s operations.
• Actively engage in learning initiatives such as training programs, workshops, and webinars to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current with industry developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support, promptly and effectively assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues.
• Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King’s core Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support department goals.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Essential Qualities For Success:

• Academic Pursuit: Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a related field of study that aligns with the assigned department.
• Academic Standing: Must be at a college junior standing or above at the time of the internship.
• Academic Excellence: Must maintain a 3.2 GPA or above.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to quickly learn and become proficient in internal software systems.
• Adaptability: Possess strong adaptability skills and the ability to learn quickly, handling unexpected challenges with maturity and professionalism.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and specifically Excel.
• Service-Oriented: Excellent customer service skills.
• Work Authorization: Permanent US work authorization is required.

Physical Requirements:

The role may require the following physical capabilities, with reasonable accommodations made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions:

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