Role Overview

Are you passionate about retail merchandising and ready to hit the road delivering exceptional store experiences? As a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Lexington, Virginia, you'll join the Field Activity Support Team (FAST), traveling across the district to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and create visually stunning displays that drive sales. This dynamic role combines hands-on merchandising with customer-facing sales, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced retail environments and love sharing their passion for rural lifestyle products.

Picture yourself transforming stores into shopper magnets while building relationships with team members and customers alike. Tractor Supply Co values team members who bring energy to every reset and Legendary Customer Service to every interaction. If you're seeking Merchandising Sales Associate careers at Tractor Supply Co in Lexington, Virginia, this position offers the perfect blend of travel, creativity, and customer connection.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Merchandising Sales Associate starts with checking your district schedule and mapping your route to multiple Tractor Supply locations. You'll arrive at your first store ready to dive into planogram execution, carefully arranging products according to precise layouts that maximize sales potential. A typical morning might involve measuring shelves, assembling eye-catching endcaps, and hanging fresh signage that draws customers to seasonal promotions.

After completing your visual merchandising tasks, you'll shift to customer support, using the GURA process—Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Appreciate—to help shoppers find everything from fencing supplies to pet nutrition. Lunch on the go keeps you fueled for afternoon cycle counts and recovery work, ensuring every aisle maintains Tractor Supply's high standards. You'll wrap up by communicating progress with your district supervisor, ready for tomorrow's store visits.

• Execute 2-3 planograms per store visit
• Assemble fixtures and PDQs for promotions
• Perform accurate inventory cycle counts
• Deliver peak coverage during busy periods

Why Lexington?

Lexington, Virginia, offers the perfect backdrop for a Merchandising Sales Associate role at Tractor Supply Co. Nestled in the heart of Rockbridge County, this historic town blends small-town charm with a thriving agricultural community that aligns perfectly with Tractor Supply's mission. Lexington's strong farming economy means you'll serve customers who truly appreciate quality rural lifestyle products, from livestock feed to welding supplies.

The local economy benefits from Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University, creating a diverse customer base that includes students, military families, and generational farmers. Lexington's proximity to Natural Bridge and the Blue Ridge Parkway attracts outdoor enthusiasts who frequent Tractor Supply for camping gear and horse tack. Living and working in Lexington provides easy access to nearby Staunton and Roanoke while enjoying the community's tight-knit vibe.

Tractor Supply stores in the Lexington area serve as community hubs where locals gather for advice on everything from pasture management to pet care. The region's equine culture and active 4-H programs create steady demand for your merchandising expertise. Choose Lexington for Merchandising Sales Associate jobs where you can make a genuine impact in a community that values the rural way of life.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Tractor Supply Co invests heavily in team member development, offering clear promotion paths for dedicated Merchandising Sales Associates. Your first 90 days focus on mastering FAST processes, but high performers quickly advance to District FAST Supervisor roles overseeing multiple associates. Many start as field team members and progress to Store Team Lead positions within 12-18 months.

The company's internal promotion culture means 70% of store leadership began in entry-level roles like yours. Specialized training programs prepare you for Department Manager roles in areas like livestock or hardware merchandising. Ambitious associates can target District Manager positions, overseeing operations across multiple locations including the Lexington market.

• Team Lead → Department Supervisor → Assistant Store Manager
• FAST Supervisor → District Operations Manager
• Corporate merchandising training programs
• Leadership development academies

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co in Virginia earn competitive hourly wages that reflect travel requirements and merchandising expertise. Most positions offer pay ranges starting at $15-18 per hour, with opportunities for performance bonuses during peak seasons. The role's travel component includes mileage reimbursement, making it financially rewarding for reliable transportation owners.

Comprehensive benefits kick in after 60 days, including medical, dental, and vision coverage with multiple plan options. Tractor Supply's 401(k) match program helps you build retirement savings, while the 15% team member discount applies to nearly everything in the store. Paid time off accrues from day one, plus paid holidays and flexible scheduling accommodate your lifestyle.

Additional perks include tuition reimbursement for career advancement and wellness programs promoting work-life balance. Virginia's Merchandising Sales Associate salary at Tractor Supply often exceeds regional averages due to the specialized FAST skill set required.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co cultivates a family-oriented culture where Merchandising Sales Associates feel valued as essential contributors to store success. FAST team members receive recognition through monthly awards and district-wide shoutouts for outstanding planogram execution. The company's 'Life Out Here' philosophy creates genuine camaraderie among team members who share passions for farming, ranching, and outdoor living.

Regular team-building events and community service projects strengthen bonds across districts. Leadership emphasizes open communication, with FAST supervisors maintaining daily check-ins to support your success. Tractor Supply's commitment to diversity includes team members from varied backgrounds united by rural lifestyle appreciation.

Safety training and wellness initiatives demonstrate the company's investment in your long-term success. Join a culture where hard work meets heartfelt appreciation, and every associate contributes to making life out here better.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your merchandising career with Tractor Supply Co in Lexington, Virginia? The application process is simple and fast. Review the qualifications above, prepare your resume highlighting any retail or merchandising experience, and click the Apply Now button at the top of this page.

Our hiring team reviews applications within 48 hours. Qualified candidates receive immediate phone screening followed by in-person interviews at the district office. Apply using the button above to join the FAST team making a difference in Virginia stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the typical travel radius for Merchandising Sales Associates in Lexington?

Most FAST team members cover a 50-75 mile radius around Lexington, visiting 2-4 stores per day. Travel occurs Monday through Friday with occasional weekend peak coverage. Mileage reimbursement covers all work-related driving in your personal vehicle.

Do I need merchandising experience to qualify?

Prior retail or merchandising experience is required, but Tractor Supply provides comprehensive FAST training. Candidates with visual merchandising, planogram execution, or fixture assembly experience receive priority consideration. Farming or ranching background gives you a competitive edge.

What shifts will I work as a FAST Team Member?

Shifts typically run 4-8 hours per store visit, with full days averaging 8-10 hours including travel. Schedules vary weekly based on district needs but generally operate Monday-Friday. Occasional weekend shifts support peak holiday periods.

Is a valid driver's license required?

Yes, a valid driver's license and reliable personal vehicle are essential. You'll travel independently between store locations using GPS navigation. Tractor Supply reimburses mileage at the current IRS rate for all work travel.

What does GURA customer service mean?

GURA stands for Greet, Uncover customer needs, Recommend solutions, and Appreciate. This proven process differentiates Tractor Supply's Legendary Customer Experience from competitors. FAST team members actively engage customers during merchandising visits.

Can this role lead to full-time store management?

Absolutely—many store managers began as FAST team members. The role builds essential merchandising, leadership, and customer service skills. High performers advance to supervisor roles within 12 months, then store leadership positions.

Are there physical requirements for this job?

Yes, the role requires lifting 50+ pounds, standing for extended periods, and climbing ladders. You'll assemble fixtures, move merchandise, and work in warehouse conditions. Safety training ensures you perform all tasks injury-free.

What benefits are available immediately?

Team member merchandise discount and paid training begin day one. Full medical, dental, 401(k), and PTO eligibility starts after 60 days. Performance bonuses may apply during peak seasons based on district results.

Is farming knowledge really preferred?

Strongly preferred—customers trust recommendations from team members who understand livestock, equine, pet, or welding products. This knowledge helps you merchandise effectively and provide expert customer guidance during store visits.