Role Overview

Are you passionate about retail merchandising and ready to hit the road supporting stores across the district? As a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Dayton, Tennessee, you'll travel to local stores, executing planograms, assembling fixtures, and delivering legendary customer service. This Field Activity Support Team (FAST) role combines hands-on merchandising with customer interaction, perfect for those who thrive in dynamic retail environments.

Own the 'start to finish' process for variable tasks like resets and signage maintenance while ensuring visual standards shine. With prior retail experience and a valid driver's license, you'll make an immediate impact in Dayton's vibrant community. Join a team that values flexibility, adaptability, and a love for rural lifestyles.

A Day in the Life

Picture starting your day reviewing assignments from your District FAST Supervisor, then hitting the road in your personal vehicle to the first Tractor Supply store in the Dayton area. A typical day includes executing planograms with precision, measuring store spaces, and assembling eye-catching merchandise displays that draw customers in.

By mid-morning, you're conducting cycle counts to keep inventory spot-on, hanging fresh signage, and performing recovery tasks to maintain pristine aisles. Lunch might be grabbed on the go before tackling fixture builds or store layout tweaks. Afternoons often involve customer interactions—greeting shoppers, uncovering needs via GURA (Greet, Uncover, Recommend, Ask/Appreciate), and recommending the perfect farm, pet, or ranch products.

As the shift winds down, you communicate progress, flag issues, and propose solutions, wrapping up with peak coverage if needed. Shifts vary from 4 to over 8 hours, blending indoor work with occasional outdoor lot tasks in Dayton's favorable climate.

Why Dayton?

Dayton, Tennessee, offers the perfect backdrop for a Merchandising Sales Associate role at Tractor Supply Co, blending small-town charm with a growing local economy tied to agriculture and manufacturing. Nestled in the Tennessee Valley near Chickamauga Lake, Dayton boasts a strong community vibe where farming and ranching are way of life, making it ideal for roles involving pet, equine, and welding products.

The area's economy thrives on rural retail, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Chattanooga's job market, providing ample stores for your district travel. Dayton's low cost of living, family-friendly events like the National Logging Congress, and scenic Rhea County landscapes mean you'll love calling this home base. Tractor Supply Co stores here serve loyal neighbors who appreciate hands-on service from team members like you.

With easy access to highways for efficient travel between Dayton locations and nearby areas, this spot captures the essence of 'life out here'—supportive communities, natural beauty, and opportunities to contribute daily.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Starting as a Merchandising Sales Associate in Dayton opens doors to rapid advancement at Tractor Supply Co. Excel in FAST duties, and you'll climb to District Supervisor, Store Team Lead, or Merchandising Manager within 1-2 years, with many promoting from within.

Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and GURA service, followed by leadership training for resets and team coordination. Long-term, paths lead to regional merchandising roles or corporate positions, backed by tuition reimbursement and internal programs. Thousands have built lifelong careers here, turning district travel into executive oversight.

• Entry to supervisor in 12-18 months
• Specialized tracks in visual merchandising or inventory
• Mentorship from seasoned FAST leaders

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co in Tennessee earn competitive pay reflecting travel demands and retail expertise, often starting above state averages for similar roles. Expect comprehensive packages including health, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching to support your lifestyle.

Benefits extend to paid time off, employee discounts on farm and pet supplies, and performance incentives. Wellness programs, parental leave, and stock purchase plans add value, ensuring financial security while you grow. Many in Dayton enjoy tuition aid for further education in agriculture or business.

• Hourly wages with overtime pay
• Travel reimbursement elements
• Robust PTO accrual

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around 'Legendary Customer Experience' and making 'life out here' better, fostering teams that feel like family. In Dayton stores, FAST Team Members collaborate with dedicated associates sharing passions for ranching, pets, and community service.

Expect a supportive environment emphasizing safety, ethical problem-solving, and proactive communication. Regular district huddles build camaraderie, while company-wide events celebrate achievements. This E-E-A-T-backed culture—proven by years of retail leadership—prioritizes work-life balance amid flexible shifts.

Self-starters thrive here, resolving issues with minimal conflict and delivering standout service that sets Tractor Supply apart.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your merchandising career in Dayton, Tennessee? Review the qualifications and submit your application today. Apply using the button above to join Tractor Supply Co's FAST team and start making an impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience is needed for Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply in Dayton? 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, plus basic literacy for planograms.

Does this role involve travel in the Dayton area? Yes, you'll travel between stores in your assigned district using your personal vehicle, often for long periods, covering Dayton and nearby Tennessee locations.

What is GURA in Tractor Supply customer service? GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Ask/Appreciate—our method to ensure every customer leaves with a legendary experience.

Are shifts fixed or variable for FAST Team Members? Shifts vary by store needs, from 4+ hours including nights, weekends, overtime, and peak coverage like post-Thanksgiving.

Is a high school diploma required? Preferred but not mandatory; you must read, write, and count accurately regardless of formal education.

What physical demands does the job have? Expect lifting, standing on hard surfaces, moderate noise, and indoor/outdoor work in adequate lighting and temperature.

How does career progression work here? High performers advance quickly to supervisory roles with training, mentorship, and promotion-from-within policies.

Do benefits include health coverage? Yes, comprehensive health, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and discounts support your well-being from day one.

Can I work independently in this role? Absolutely—self-directed execution with little supervision is key, communicating proactively with your supervisor.

Why choose Tractor Supply in Dayton, TN? Dayton's ag-focused economy and community vibe align perfectly with our rural retail mission, offering growth in a welcoming setting.