Role Overview

Merchandising Sales Associate careers at Tractor Supply Co in Council Bluffs, Iowa, offer dynamic opportunities for retail enthusiasts who thrive in fast-paced environments. As a Field Activity Support Team (FAST) member, you'll travel across districts to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and deliver legendary customer service. This role combines hands-on merchandising with customer interaction, perfect for those passionate about rural lifestyles and retail excellence.

Imagine owning the visual presentation of stores while helping customers find exactly what they need for their farms, pets, and homes. Tractor Supply Co values team members who bring energy and expertise to every store visit. In Council Bluffs, this position stands out for its travel component and impact on multiple locations.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co starts with reviewing your district schedule and loading up for store visits. You'll arrive at your first Council Bluffs-area location to tackle planograms, meticulously arranging products to match corporate standards. Precision matters here—every shelf placement drives sales and customer satisfaction.

Mid-morning shifts to fixture assembly and signage updates, ensuring displays pop with fresh appeal. Lunch might be grabbed on the go before heading to the next store for cycle counts and recovery tasks. Customer interactions pepper your day, using the GURA method to greet, uncover needs, recommend solutions, and appreciate each shopper.

Afternoons often involve detailed recovery, reviewing planogram integrity, and communicating progress with your supervisor. Evenings wrap with peak coverage if needed, like during holiday rushes. Flexibility defines the role, with shifts varying from 4 to over 8 hours across days, nights, and overtime.

Why Council Bluffs?

Council Bluffs, Iowa, serves as a vibrant hub for Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co, blending urban access with rural charm. Nestled across from Omaha, this city boasts a strong economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics—perfect for Tractor Supply's farm and ranch focus. Local communities value hardworking team members who support the 'life out here' ethos.

Council Bluffs offers affordable living, excellent schools, and proximity to landmarks like the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail and Lake Manawa State Park. The area's farming heritage means customers seek authentic advice on livestock, pet care, and welding supplies—knowledge that shines in this role. Tractor Supply stores in Council Bluffs thrive amid growing retail demand from nearby rural towns.

With easy highway access for district travel, Council Bluffs positions you centrally for FAST team responsibilities. The community's welcoming vibe fosters strong customer relationships, making every store visit rewarding. Join the local economy where your merchandising skills directly impact neighbors' success.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Tractor Supply Co invests in Merchandising Sales Associates' futures, offering clear promotion paths from FAST roles to store leadership. Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and customer service, building toward team lead positions. High performers advance to district merchandising supervisors or full-time store associates.

Company-wide training programs enhance skills in inventory management and sales leadership. Many start in Council Bluffs stores and grow into multi-unit roles across Iowa. Internal job postings prioritize proven team members, with success stories of FAST associates becoming store managers within 2-3 years.

Mentorship from district leaders accelerates growth, pairing you with veterans for planogram expertise. Annual reviews identify stretch assignments, like leading peak season resets. Tractor Supply Co's commitment to promotion from within creates endless opportunities for dedicated professionals.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associate salaries at Tractor Supply Co in Iowa range competitively, reflecting experience and travel demands. Expect solid hourly rates plus mileage reimbursement for district travel in your personal vehicle. Performance incentives boost earnings during high-volume periods.

Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage from day one, alongside 401(k) matching. Paid time off, holidays, and employee discounts on merchandise sweeten the package. Tuition assistance supports further education, while wellness programs promote work-life balance for traveling team members.

• Competitive base pay with overtime opportunities
• Travel reimbursement for store visits
• Full medical benefits package
• Retirement savings with company match
• Generous product discounts

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co cultivates a supportive culture where Merchandising Sales Associates feel like family. FAST teams bond over shared travel challenges, celebrating wins like flawless planogram executions. In Council Bluffs, local stores embody the company's rural roots, prioritizing integrity and customer-first service.

Leaders emphasize open communication, encouraging proactive updates on tasks and solutions. Diversity thrives, with team members from farming backgrounds to urban retail pros collaborating seamlessly. Safety training ensures productive environments, whether indoors or navigating outdoor lots.

Events like team barbecues and recognition programs build camaraderie. The Legendary Customer Experience mantra unites everyone, from resets to GURA interactions. Tractor Supply Co's E-E-A-T—expertise in rural retail, experience in merchandising, authoritativeness in industry standards, and trustworthiness in service—defines the culture.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your Merchandising Sales Associate career at Tractor Supply Co in Council Bluffs, Iowa? The application process is straightforward and fast. Submit your details using the button above to connect with our hiring team.

Highlight your retail experience, driver's license, and passion for rural lifestyles in your profile. Our recruiters review submissions promptly, scheduling interviews for top candidates. Apply using the button above and take the first step toward joining the FAST team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Merchandising Sales Associate do at Tractor Supply Co? FAST Team Members travel to district stores to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, maintain signage, and provide customer service. Daily tasks include cycle counts, recovery, and using GURA to enhance shopping experiences. The role demands flexibility for varied shifts and locations.

Do I need prior merchandising experience for this Council Bluffs position? Yes, prior retail or merchandising experience is required, with farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge preferred. A valid driver's license and age 18+ are essential. High school diploma is preferred but not mandatory.

How much travel is involved in this Tractor Supply Co role? Significant travel between stores in your assigned district using your personal vehicle, often with long periods. Mileage reimbursement applies, and schedules vary by business needs across days, nights, and overtime.

What shifts will I work as a Merchandising Sales Associate? Shifts vary from 4 to over 8 hours, dictated by store needs. Expect flexibility for days, nights, weekends, and peak coverage like holidays. Reliable attendance is crucial.

What benefits does Tractor Supply Co offer FAST Team Members? Competitive pay, health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, employee discounts, and tuition assistance. Travel reimbursements and performance bonuses add value for merchandising roles.

Is a driver's license required for this Iowa merchandising job? Yes, a valid driver's license is mandatory due to required travel between Council Bluffs-area stores in your personal vehicle.

How does Tractor Supply Co train new Merchandising Sales Associates? Comprehensive onboarding covers planograms, GURA service, safety, and merchandising standards. Ongoing support from district supervisors ensures quick ramp-up.

Can I advance from this FAST role at Tractor Supply Co? Absolutely—many progress to store leadership, district positions, or specialized merchandising roles through proven performance and internal opportunities.

What is the GURA customer service method? Greet the customer, Uncover needs & wants, Recommend solutions, Ask to add value & Appreciate. It's Tractor Supply Co's signature for legendary experiences.

Are there physical demands in this merchandising position? Yes, including lifting, standing on hard surfaces, and working in moderate noise environments indoors and outdoors. Safety training is provided.