Internship Program

Job Description

Job Title: Internship Program

About Rural King:

Rural King, America’s Farm and Home Store, is dedicated to serving communities across 17 states with over 150 locations and annual sales exceeding $2.5 Billion. Headquartered in Mattoon, IL, Rural King provides a wide array of essentials, from food and feed to farm and home products. We are known for our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee, a gesture of appreciation for our customers.

At Rural King, we prioritize our associates, fostering a positive and rewarding workplace. We offer significant growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment. Joining us means not just finding a job, but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a real difference in rural communities.

How We Reward You:

• 401(k) Plan: 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%.
• Healthcare Plans: Comprehensive coverage to support your needs.
• Virtual Doctor Visits: Convenient access to medical professionals.
• Centers of Excellence: Access to Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program.
• Associate Discount: 15% off Rural King products.
• Financial Wellness: Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program.
• Associate Assistance Program: Support for personal and work-related challenges.
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program: Assistance during difficult times.
• Chaplaincy Services: 24/7 confidential support.

About the Rural King Internship Program:

The Rural King Internship Program is designed for highly motivated and successful individuals seeking to develop skills and knowledge in their chosen field of study. Participants will gain valuable retail experience specific to their assigned department, with responsibilities tailored to departmental needs and business specialization.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide entry to intermediate-level professional services under the supervision of a lead associate, aligning with departmental objectives.
• Participate in impactful projects within an innovative and fast-paced retail environment.
• Contribute to projects focused on developing professional skills and expertise relevant to the assigned department.
• Collaborate with other associates to complete projects and manage day-to-day operational tasks.
• Receive guidance, training, and mentoring from experienced team members.
• Offer suggestions and feedback to management for improving internal processes and procedures.
• Learn and become proficient in necessary software systems.
• Actively participate in learning initiatives, including training programs, workshops, and webinars, to acquire new knowledge and refine skills.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support, addressing inquiries and concerns 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:

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a related field of study that coincides with the assigned department.
• Must be at a college junior standing or above at the time of internship.
• Minimum 3.2 GPA or above.
• Ability to learn and become proficient in internal software systems.
• Adaptability and the ability to learn quickly and handle unexpected challenges with maturity and professionalism.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Excel.
• 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:

The pay for this position is max $16.00 per hour. 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, please review here: Rural King Benefits Information