Internship Program

Job Description

Job Title: Internship Program

About Rural King: America’s Farm and Home Store

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, a rapidly expanding retail chain dedicated to providing essential goods to the communities we serve. With a comprehensive selection ranging from food and feed to various farm and home products, we operate over 130 locations across 13 states, with annual sales exceeding $2.5 billion. Our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store are proudly located in Mattoon, IL.

We are known for our unique shopping experience, which includes complimentary popcorn and coffee, a small token of our appreciation for our loyal customers.

Our Culture: A People-First Environment

At Rural King, we are committed to fostering a positive and rewarding workplace for our associates. We believe in a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to passionately serve rural communities. We offer significant growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a chance to contribute meaningfully and make a real difference. Join us to find not just a job, but a career path where you can grow professionally and be part of a supportive team.

How We Reward You: Our Comprehensive Benefits Package

• 401(k) Plan: Enjoy a 100% company match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% on the next 2%.
• Healthcare Plans: Comprehensive coverage designed to support your needs.
• Virtual Doctor Visits: Convenient access to medical consultations.
• Centers of Excellence: Access to Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program for specialized care.
• 15% Associate Discount: Exclusive savings on Rural King products.
• Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program: Financial wellness resources to help you achieve your goals.
• Associate Assistance Program: Confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program: Assistance during times of unforeseen hardship.
• 24/7 Chaplaincy Services: Spiritual support available whenever you need it.

The Rural King Internship Program: What You’ll Do

The Rural King Internship Program is designed to offer highly motivated and successful individuals an unparalleled opportunity to develop skills and knowledge directly related to their area of degree focus. Participants will gain valuable insight into the retail industry through hands-on experiences specific to their assigned department. Specific internship responsibilities will be tailored to the needs of the department and the line of business specialization.

• Provide entry to intermediate-level professional services under the supervision of a lead associate, aligning with departmental objectives.
• Participate in impactful projects, offering a direct opportunity to influence the business within an innovative and fast-paced environment.
• Contribute to projects specifically designed to cultivate professional skills and expertise relevant to the assigned department.
• Collaborate effectively with other associates to complete projects and manage day-to-day operational tasks.
• Receive structured 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 continuously improve internal processes and procedures.
• Learn and become proficient in necessary software systems utilized by the department.
• Actively engage in learning initiatives such as training programs, workshops, and webinars to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay updated on the latest developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support, promptly and effectively assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues.
• Demonstrate behaviors that embody Rural King’s core Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Essential Qualities For Success:

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a related field of study that aligns with the assigned department.
• Must be at a college junior standing or above at the time of the internship.
• Must maintain a GPA of 3.2 or above.
• Ability to quickly learn and become proficient in internal software systems.
• Demonstrated adaptability and the capacity to learn quickly, handling unexpected challenges with maturity and professionalism.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including strong Excel skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Permanent US work authorization required.

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 activities.

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

Compensation & Additional Information:

The pay for this position is max $16.00 per hour. Exact compensation will be 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 comprehensive benefits, please review here: Rural King Benefits Information.