Role Overview

Are you passionate about retail merchandising and ready to bring your skills to life in Harlan, Kentucky? As a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Harlan, Kentucky, you'll travel across the district as part of the Field Activity Support Team (FAST), owning tasks from planograms to customer service. This dynamic role combines hands-on merchandising with delivering a Legendary Customer Experience, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced rural retail environments.

Picture yourself setting up eye-catching displays that help local farmers, pet owners, and ranchers find exactly what they need. With prior retail experience and a valid driver's license, you'll execute resets, assemble fixtures, and maintain visual standards while interacting with customers. Harlan's close-knit community makes this position rewarding, as your work directly supports neighbors in Kentucky's Appalachian heartland.

Tractor Supply Co values team members who are flexible, service-oriented, and eager to grow. This entry-level opportunity offers varied shifts, travel between stores, and the chance to build a lasting career in merchandising sales.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co starts with checking in with your District FAST Supervisor for assignments across Harlan and nearby stores. You'll load your vehicle with tools, signage, and fixtures, then head out to execute planograms with precision, ensuring shelves align perfectly with company standards.

Mid-morning might involve assembling PDQs or hanging fresh signage to highlight seasonal products like equine supplies or welding gear. Lunch on the go keeps you fueled for afternoon cycle counts and recovery tasks, where you review planogram integrity and tidy displays.

• Greet customers using the GURA process: Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Appreciate them.
• Perform store measurements and layout initiatives for optimal flow.
• Handle peak coverage, like post-holiday rushes, delivering standout service.

By shift's end, you communicate completions and solutions via proactive updates, wrapping up with a sense of accomplishment in a store buzzing with rural lifestyle energy.

Why Harlan?

Harlan, Kentucky, is more than a dot on the map—it's the beating heart of Appalachia, where coal heritage blends with vibrant community spirit. As a Merchandising Sales Associate in Harlan, you'll serve locals who rely on Tractor Supply Co for farming tools, pet care, and ranching essentials amid the region's rolling hills and tight-knit neighborhoods.

Harlan's economy thrives on agriculture, mining support, and small businesses, creating steady demand for well-merchandised stores. Nearby areas like Cumberland and Pineville draw shoppers for quality goods, and your role ensures Harlan stands out as a go-to destination.

Enjoy Harlan's low cost of living, outdoor pursuits in the Cumberland Gap, and events like the Harlan County Fair. Working here means contributing to a community that values hard work and neighborly support—mention Harlan three times over coffee, and you'll hear stories of resilience that inspire daily.

Tractor Supply Co in Harlan fosters a family-like vibe, perfect for those rooted in Kentucky's rural charm.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Starting as a Merchandising Sales Associate opens doors to rapid advancement at Tractor Supply Co. Excel in FAST duties, and you'll climb to District Supervisor, Store Team Lead, or even Merchandising Manager within 2-3 years—many team members do.

Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and GURA service, with training that builds merchandising expertise. By year one, top performers lead resets district-wide, gaining leadership exposure.

• Promotion paths: FAST Lead → Store Operations → District Management.
• Ongoing development via Tractor University courses.
• Cross-training in sales, inventory, and customer-facing roles.

Tractor Supply Co invests in internal talent, with 70% of managers starting on the floor. In Harlan, Kentucky, your merchandising sales associate role becomes a launchpad for a stable, rewarding career in retail leadership.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co in Kentucky earn competitive pay reflecting experience and travel demands, often starting above regional averages for retail roles. Expect transparency in hourly rates that reward flexibility and performance, with opportunities for overtime during peak seasons.

Benefits kick in early, including comprehensive health plans, dental, and vision coverage to support your well-being. A robust 401(k) with company match secures your future, while paid time off ensures work-life balance amid varied shifts.

• Employee stock purchase program.
• Merchandise discounts up to 25%.
• Tuition assistance for further education.
• Wellness incentives and EAP support.

In Harlan, this package stands out, combining solid compensation with lifestyle perks tailored to rural Kentucky living.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around 'Life Out Here,' celebrating rural values like hard work, integrity, and community. As a Merchandising Sales Associate, you'll join a supportive FAST team that collaborates seamlessly, sharing tips on efficient resets and customer wins.

Expect a respectful environment where ethical problem-solving and minimal conflict resolution are norms. Leaders prioritize safety training and recognition, fostering trust and motivation.

Harlan teams embody this through potlucks, volunteer days, and celebrating local milestones. It's approachable professionalism—where your input shapes store success and personal growth.

How to Apply

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

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 age 18+ are essential, plus basic literacy for tasks like planograms.

Does this role involve travel? Yes, as a FAST Team Member, you'll travel between stores in the district using your personal vehicle, often for long periods, executing tasks district-wide.

What shifts can I expect? Shifts vary by store needs, typically 4-8+ hours, including days, nights, weekends, and overtime. Flexibility is key for peak coverage.

How does customer service work here? Use the GURA process: Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, Ask to add value, and Appreciate the customer for a Legendary experience.

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

What physical demands are there? Expect moderate lifting, standing on hard surfaces, indoor/outdoor work, and safe practices in varying weather.

Are there advancement opportunities? Absolutely—many advance from FAST to supervisory roles with training and performance.

What benefits does Tractor Supply Co offer? Competitive pay, health insurance, 401(k), PTO, discounts, and more to support team members.

Can I work part-time? Schedules are based on business needs; discuss flexibility during application.

How do I communicate with supervisors? Proactively report work completion, issues, and solutions to your District FAST Supervisor regularly.