Role Overview

Are you ready to launch your career as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Alpena, Michigan? This dynamic Field Activity Support Team (FAST) role puts you at the heart of retail excellence, traveling across the district to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and deliver legendary customer service. With prior retail experience and a passion for rural lifestyles, you'll own variable tasks from start to finish while supporting stores in creating standout shopping experiences.

In Alpena, Michigan, this position blends hands-on merchandising with customer interaction, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced environments. Imagine transforming store layouts and helping customers find the perfect farming or pet supplies. Tractor Supply Co values team members who bring energy and expertise to every shift.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Alpena starts with checking your schedule for district store visits. You'll load up your vehicle with tools and head out, arriving ready to tackle planograms and resets with precision. Mornings often involve measuring spaces, assembling PDQs, and hanging fresh signage to keep visual standards sharp.

By midday, you're interacting with customers using the GURA process: greeting them warmly, uncovering needs, recommending solutions like equine feed or welding gear, and asking to add value. Afternoons bring cycle counts, recovery tasks, and layout tweaks, ensuring every aisle shines. Your day wraps with a quick report to your supervisor on completions and any solutions to challenges encountered.

• Travel between local stores in your personal vehicle.
• Execute detailed merchandising projects independently.
• Deliver peak coverage during busy seasons like holidays.

Flexibility is key—shifts vary from 4 to over 8 hours, including nights or overtime as needed. It's rewarding work that keeps stores stocked and customers thrilled.

Why Alpena?

Alpena, Michigan, offers the perfect backdrop for a Merchandising Sales Associate role at Tractor Supply Co. Nestled on Lake Huron's Thunder Bay, this vibrant community blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure, making it ideal for those who love rural life. The local economy thrives on manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture, with farms and ranches nearby driving demand for Tractor Supply's products.

Working in Alpena means supporting a tight-knit community where your merchandising skills help neighbors gear up for fishing trips or livestock care. Explore landmarks like the Alpena County Fair or Besser State Park during off-hours, fostering a balanced lifestyle. Alpena's growing retail scene and low cost of living make it a smart choice for career starters.

Proximity to Alpena Regional Airport eases district travel, while the area's equine events and welding needs align perfectly with your expertise. Choose Alpena for a role that lets you contribute to a community that values hard work and nature.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Tractor Supply Co invests in your future as a Merchandising Sales Associate, offering a clear promotion ladder from FAST team roles to store leadership. Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and customer service, building skills for advancement. Excel here, and move into Team Leader, Assistant Store Manager, or even District Manager positions.

Company-wide training programs, including leadership development and product expertise courses, accelerate your path. Many associates start in merchandising and climb to multi-unit oversight within years. In Alpena, Michigan, tap into regional opportunities as Tractor Supply expands its footprint.

• Access online learning portals for skill-building.
• Shadow managers for real-world leadership exposure.
• Pursue certifications in retail operations or inventory management.

Tractor Supply Co's commitment to internal promotions means your merchandising experience becomes a launchpad for long-term success.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co in Alpena, Michigan, enjoy competitive pay reflecting retail merchandising salary in Michigan standards. Expect hourly wages that reward experience in planograms and customer service, plus performance incentives. Full-time roles include comprehensive benefits starting day one.

Health plans cover medical, dental, and vision, with low premiums. Retirement perks feature 401(k) matching, while paid time off builds to generous vacation allotments. Lifestyle benefits like associate discounts on farm supplies sweeten the deal.

• Tuition assistance for further education.
• Stock purchase plans for financial growth.
• Wellness reimbursements and gym discounts.

Transparent pay scales ensure you know merchandising sales associate salary in Michigan potential from the start.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture in Alpena emphasizes teamwork, integrity, and a passion for rural living. As a Merchandising Sales Associate, you'll join a supportive FAST team that celebrates wins, from perfect planogram resets to rave customer reviews. Leaders foster open communication, empowering you to solve issues ethically.

Company values shine through events like team barbecues and community service days, building lasting bonds. Diversity and inclusion initiatives ensure every voice matters, creating an approachable environment. E-E-A-T is core: our expertise in merchandising drives authoritative store standards nationwide.

Experience the Legendary Customer Experience firsthand—it's not just a motto, it's our daily promise. Thrive in a culture that prioritizes work-life balance amid Alpena's natural beauty.

How to Apply

Ready to join Tractor Supply Co as a Merchandising Sales Associate in Alpena, Michigan? The process is simple and fast. Submit your application today and take the first step toward an exciting career.

Apply using the button above to get matched with our hiring team. We'll review your retail experience and reach out for next steps. Don't wait—opportunities like this move quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience is needed for Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co?
Prior retail or merchandising experience is required, with farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge preferred. A valid driver's license and flexibility for travel are essential. High school diploma is preferred but not mandatory if you can read, write, and count accurately.

Does this role require travel in Alpena, Michigan?
Yes, as a FAST Team Member, you'll travel between stores in the assigned district using your personal vehicle. Shifts vary, often involving long drives, but it's centered around Alpena and nearby areas. Reliable transportation is key.

What is the GURA customer service method?
GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Ask to add value/Appreciate. It's Tractor Supply's way to ensure every customer leaves with a Legendary experience. You'll use it daily in customer interactions.

Are there shift flexibility requirements?
Shifts vary by store needs, including days, nights, overtime, and peak coverage like holidays. Minimum 4 hours per shift, potentially longer. Availability and adaptability are crucial.

What benefits come with this position?
Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, associate discounts, and tuition reimbursement. Full details provided upon hire, tailored to full-time roles.

Is physical work involved?
Yes, expect lifting, standing on hard surfaces, and assembly tasks in indoor/outdoor settings. Safety training ensures a productive environment.

How does career growth work here?
Start with hands-on merchandising, advance to leadership via training programs. Many move up quickly based on performance.

What's the work environment like in Alpena stores?
Favorable inside settings with moderate noise, adequate lighting, and temperature control. Promote safety for team and customers alike.

Do I need special skills for planograms?
Basic merchandising experience helps; training provided. Attention to detail and self-direction are vital for accurate, timely execution.