Role Overview

Merchandising Sales Associate careers at Tractor Supply Co in Franklin, Virginia, offer an exciting opportunity to blend hands-on retail tasks with customer-focused service in a dynamic rural lifestyle environment. As a Field Activity Support Team (FAST) member, you'll travel across districts to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and maintain visual standards while delivering the Legendary Customer Experience Tractor Supply is known for. This role suits energetic individuals passionate about farming, ranching, and outdoor living who thrive in fast-paced store settings.

Imagine owning the 'start to finish' execution of store merchandising projects, from precise resets to signage hangs, all while interacting with customers seeking pet supplies or welding gear. In Franklin, Virginia, this position taps into the local agricultural heartbeat, supporting stores that serve farmers and pet owners alike. With prior retail experience required and a valid driver's license essential for district travel, you'll hit the ground running in this entry-level merchandising role.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co begins with checking your district schedule and hitting the road in your personal vehicle to the first assigned store. You'll dive into planogram execution, meticulously arranging products to match visual guidelines, followed by assembling PDQs and fixtures to enhance shopper appeal. Mid-morning often involves cycle counts and store measurements to ensure inventory accuracy.

Customer interactions pepper your shift—using the GURA method to greet shoppers, uncover needs for equine feed or ranch tools, recommend solutions, and close with appreciation. Lunch might be grabbed on the go before tackling signage maintenance and recovery tasks, reviewing planogram integrity for peak presentation. Evenings wrap with supervisor updates on completions and challenges, often extending into overtime during busy seasons like post-Thanksgiving peaks.

• Start with travel to multiple Franklin-area stores.
• Execute resets and visual merchandising standards.
• Perform detailed recovery and fixture assembly.
• Deliver GURA customer service throughout.

Why Franklin?

Franklin, Virginia, stands as a welcoming hub in Southampton County, where the local economy thrives on agriculture, manufacturing, and a tight-knit community spirit. Nestled near the Blackwater River, Franklin offers Merchandising Sales Associates an ideal base for district travel, with easy access to nearby Suffolk and Smithfield—key areas for Tractor Supply's rural customer base. The city's revitalized downtown, featuring historic sites like the Franklin Depot, blends small-town charm with modern amenities.

Working in Franklin means contributing to a community that values farming heritage, from peanut fields to livestock operations that drive regional commerce. Tractor Supply stores here serve as lifelines for locals stocking up on pet supplies, welding equipment, and ranch essentials. With low living costs and a growing job market, Franklin provides the perfect backdrop for balancing work travel with family life and outdoor pursuits like river kayaking.

Franklin's proximity to Interstate 664 simplifies district hops, while community events like the Franklin Fall Festival foster team bonds. For Merchandising Sales Associates, this location means real impact—helping stores in Franklin and surrounding spots shine for customers who rely on us daily.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Tractor Supply Co invests in Merchandising Sales Associates' futures with a clear promotion ladder, starting from FAST roles into full-time store leadership like Department Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and customer service, unlocking training for advanced merchandising certifications. High performers advance to District Merchandising roles, overseeing multiple locations.

Company-wide programs like the Management Trainee path propel dedicated team members to Store Manager positions within 2-3 years. Internal job postings prioritize proven associates, with many Franklin, Virginia, leaders starting in entry merchandising spots. Networking at district meetings and completing online leadership courses accelerates your trajectory in this supportive retail giant.

• 90-day onboarding with skill-building modules.
• Path to supervisor roles in 1-2 years.
• Leadership development for store and district management.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associate salaries at Tractor Supply Co in Virginia range competitively, reflecting travel demands and skill application, with opportunities for overtime pay during peak periods. Full-time roles include comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, plus 401(k) matching to build long-term security. Paid time off accrues from day one, supporting work-life balance amid variable shifts.

Team members enjoy deep discounts on farm, pet, and outdoor gear—perfect for Franklin's rural lifestyle. Tuition reimbursement fuels further education, while wellness incentives promote health. Life and disability insurance round out a robust package designed for associates who deliver results.

• Hourly base plus mileage reimbursement.
• Performance bonuses for reset completions.
• Comprehensive PTO and holiday pay.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around 'Life Out Here,' fostering a family-like atmosphere where Merchandising Sales Associates collaborate with store teams on high-impact projects. In Franklin, Virginia, districts buzz with shared passion for rural living, from team barbecues to volunteer days at local farms. Emphasis on ethical problem-solving and proactive communication builds trust across ranks.

Diversity thrives in our inclusive environment, with training on unbiased customer service via GURA. Recognition programs spotlight top performers, like 'FAST Star' awards for flawless planograms. This supportive vibe ensures you feel valued while traveling between stores, backed by approachable supervisors who mentor growth.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your merchandising career with Tractor Supply Co in Franklin, Virginia? Review the role details and submit your application today. Apply using the button above to join our FAST team and start making a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience is needed for Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co? Prior retail or merchandising experience is required, with preferences for farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge. A valid driver's license and age 18+ are musts, alongside basic literacy for planograms.

Does this role involve travel in Franklin, Virginia? Yes, you'll travel in your personal vehicle to stores within an assigned district around Franklin, often for long periods, with mileage reimbursement provided.

What shifts do Merchandising Sales Associates work? Shifts vary by store needs, typically 4-8+ hours, including days, nights, weekends, and overtime, especially during peaks like holidays.

How does Tractor Supply train new FAST team members? Onboarding includes hands-on planogram training, GURA customer service workshops, and safety guidelines to ensure quick proficiency.

Is a high school diploma required? Preferred but not mandatory; the focus is on reading, writing, counting accuracy, and retail aptitude.

What is the GURA customer service method? GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Appreciate—our signature approach for Legendary service.

Are there physical demands for this merchandising job? Yes, involving lifting, standing on hard surfaces, indoor/outdoor work, and fixture assembly in moderate noise environments.

Can I advance from this role at Tractor Supply? Absolutely, with paths to management via training programs; many leaders started in FAST positions.

What benefits come with part-time vs. full-time? Full-time offers full benefits like health insurance and 401(k); part-time gets discounts and PTO accrual.

How often do resets and planograms occur? Frequency depends on district needs, but expect regular assignments to keep stores visually optimal.