Internship Program

Job Description

About Rural King: America’s Farm and Home Store

Rural King is a rapidly expanding retail leader in America’s Farm and Home Store sector, dedicated to providing essential goods to the communities it serves. With over 130 locations across 13 states and annual sales exceeding $2.5 Billion, Rural King offers a wide array of necessities, from food and feed to farm and home products. The company’s corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store are proudly located in Mattoon, IL.

Rural King is known for its unique shopping experience, offering complimentary popcorn and coffee as a token of appreciation to its customers. The company fosters a people-first environment, valuing its associates and offering substantial growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a workplace where dedicated individuals can passionately serve rural communities, contributing meaningfully and making a tangible difference.

How We Reward You: Comprehensive Associate Benefits

Rural King is committed to rewarding its associates with a robust benefits package, including:

• 401(k) Plan: Featuring a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% on the next 2%.
• Healthcare Plans: Designed to support your medical needs.
• Virtual Doctor Visits: Convenient access to healthcare.
• Centers of Excellence Access: Partnerships with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program.
• 15% Associate Discount: Savings on Rural King products.
• Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program: Financial wellness resources.
• Associate Assistance Program: Support services for various needs.
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program: Assistance during challenging times.
• 24/7 Chaplaincy Services: Spiritual and emotional support.

About the Rural King Internship Program

The Rural King Internship Program offers highly motivated and successful individuals a valuable opportunity to develop practical skills and knowledge directly related to their academic degree focus. Participants will gain insights into the retail industry through hands-on experiences within their assigned department. Specific internship responsibilities will be tailored to the needs of the department and its line of business specialization.

What You’ll Do: Key Responsibilities

• Provide entry to intermediate-level professional services under the supervision of a lead associate, aligning with departmental objectives.
• Participate in impactful projects, contributing directly to the business in an innovative and fast-paced environment.
• Contribute to projects designed to develop professional skills and expertise relevant to the assigned department.
• Collaborate with other associates to complete projects and assist with day-to-day operational tasks.
• Receive guidance, training, and mentorship from department team members to successfully carry out activities and assignments.
• Offer suggestions and feedback to management to enhance internal processes and procedures.
• Learn and achieve proficiency in necessary software systems as required by the department.
• Actively engage in learning initiatives such as training programs, workshops, and webinars to acquire new knowledge, refine skills, and stay current with industry developments.
• Deliver friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support, promptly 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

Essential Qualities For Success: Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a field of study related to the assigned department.
• Must be at a college junior standing or above at the time of the internship.
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 or above.
• Ability to quickly learn and become proficient in internal software systems.
• Demonstrated adaptability and a strong capacity for quick learning, coupled with the ability to handle unexpected challenges professionally.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Permanent US work authorization is 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 required for computer-related activities.

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

Compensation

The pay for this position is a maximum of $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 them here.