Role Overview

Are you passionate about retail merchandising and ready to launch your Merchandising Sales Associate career at Tractor Supply Co in Horseheads, New York? As a Field Activity Support Team (FAST) member, you'll travel across the district, transforming stores with perfect planograms, stunning visual displays, and exceptional customer service. This dynamic role combines hands-on merchandising with Legendary Customer Experience delivery, making a real impact in rural communities like Horseheads.

Tractor Supply Co values team members who bring energy to store resets, fixture assembly, and signage maintenance while engaging customers with the GURA process. In Horseheads, New York, this position offers the perfect blend of local community connection and district-wide travel opportunities. Join a company committed to making life out here better every day.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co begins with checking your district schedule and mapping your route from Horseheads. You'll arrive at your first store ready to execute planograms with precision, measuring spaces, assembling fixtures, and arranging merchandise to brand standards. A typical morning might involve hanging fresh signage and completing cycle counts to ensure inventory accuracy.

After lunch, shift to customer-facing duties using the GURA process: Greet every customer warmly, Uncover their needs, Recommend solutions from our extensive farming and pet inventory, and Ask to add value. Afternoons often include detailed recovery work, reviewing planogram integrity, and store layout initiatives. End your shift communicating progress with your District FAST Supervisor, ready for tomorrow's assignments.

• Start with planogram execution and fixture assembly
• Midday customer interactions and sales support
• Afternoon recovery and inventory tasks
• Daily travel between 2-4 stores

Why Horseheads?

Horseheads, New York, offers the perfect backdrop for a Merchandising Sales Associate role at Tractor Supply Co. This vibrant community in Chemung County blends small-town charm with proximity to Elmira's bustling economy. Local agriculture thrives here, with dairy farms and equestrian centers driving demand for Tractor Supply's products—perfect for someone passionate about rural lifestyles.

Horseheads' strategic location near the Southern Tier Expressway makes district travel efficient while keeping you rooted in a welcoming community. Families love the excellent schools, parks like Teal Park, and annual events that strengthen community bonds. Working in Horseheads means serving neighbors who value quality merchandise displays and knowledgeable service.

The local economy supports retail growth, with manufacturing and distribution centers nearby creating steady customer traffic. Horseheads residents appreciate team members who understand their farming, pet care, and outdoor needs. Tractor Supply Co's Horseheads location becomes your hub for impactful merchandising work in this agriculturally rich region.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Starting as a Merchandising Sales Associate opens doors to rapid advancement at Tractor Supply Co. Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and GURA sales, building toward Team Lead roles within six months. High performers transition to District FAST Supervisor positions, overseeing multiple stores and merchandising teams.

Tractor Supply Co invests in internal promotions—many store managers began in FAST roles. Specialized paths include Visual Merchandising Specialist or Inventory Control Manager. Company-wide leadership programs prepare you for Area Manager and Regional Director positions, with clear promotion ladders and annual reviews.

• 90-day mastery: Planograms and customer service excellence
• 6-12 months: Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager
• 2+ years: District Supervisor or Merchandising Manager
• Long-term: Multi-unit leadership roles

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co in New York earn competitive hourly wages reflecting district travel responsibilities. Total compensation packages average strong for the region, including mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use. Performance incentives reward planogram accuracy and customer satisfaction scores.

Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage from day one, plus 401(k) matching. Paid time off accrues quickly, with generous holiday schedules. Team members enjoy significant merchandise discounts on farming supplies, pet products, and outdoor gear—perfect for Horseheads' rural lifestyle.

• Hourly pay + mileage reimbursement
• Health insurance with low premiums
• 401(k) with company match
• Merchandise discounts up to 25%
• Paid training and certification programs

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around 'Life Out Here'—supporting rural communities through exceptional service and team camaraderie. FAST Team Members form tight-knit district crews, sharing merchandising tips and celebrating merchandising wins. Horseheads stores buzz with collaborative energy during peak seasons.

Leadership emphasizes work-life balance despite travel demands, with flexible scheduling and recognition programs. Monthly team huddles foster belonging, while company-wide events build lasting connections. Diversity thrives as team members from farming backgrounds unite with urban transplants passionate about rural retail.

Safety culture prioritizes injury prevention during fixture assembly and store resets. Continuous feedback loops ensure your voice shapes merchandising strategies. Tractor Supply Co builds careers where personal growth mirrors company success.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your Merchandising Sales Associate career with Tractor Supply Co in Horseheads, New York? The application process is simple and fast. Apply using the button above to join our FAST team today.

Our recruiters review applications within 48 hours. Prepare to discuss your retail experience, merchandising skills, and availability for district travel. Interviews focus on your passion for customer service and visual standards excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience is required for Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co?

Prior retail or merchandising experience is required, with farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge strongly preferred. A valid driver's license and reliable personal vehicle are essential due to district travel requirements.

Do I need to live in Horseheads, New York?

Horseheads serves as a primary hub, but FAST Team Members must reside within reasonable driving distance of the district. Travel between multiple stores is daily, so local residency in the Chemung County area is ideal.

What shifts will I work as a FAST Team Member?

Shifts vary by store needs, typically 4-8+ hours including days, nights, and weekends. Peak coverage during holidays like Day After Thanksgiving requires flexibility. Overtime opportunities available based on business volume.

Is a high school diploma required?

A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required. All FAST Team Members must demonstrate ability to read, write, count accurately, and use basic computer applications for inventory and communication.

What is the GURA process mentioned in the job description?

GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, Ask to add value. It's Tractor Supply Co's proven customer service method ensuring every interaction builds loyalty and drives sales.

How much travel is involved in this role?

Daily travel between 2-4 stores in your assigned district using your personal vehicle. Mileage reimbursement provided. Long periods of driving should be comfortable for success in this position.

What physical demands does the job require?

Role involves lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, bending, stooping, and working on hard surfaces. Safe fixture assembly and merchandise handling require good physical condition.

Are there advancement opportunities from this position?

Absolutely—many District FAST Supervisors and store managers started as FAST Team Members. Clear promotion paths exist through demonstrated merchandising excellence and leadership potential.

What benefits are available immediately?

Team members qualify for health insurance, 401(k), merchandise discounts, and paid time off from day one. Full benefits package supports both professional growth and personal well-being.

Can I apply if I don't have merchandising experience?

Retail sales experience substitutes well, especially with customer service focus. Strong organizational skills and willingness to learn planograms quickly can overcome limited merchandising background.