Role Overview

Are you passionate about retail merchandising and ready to bring your skills to a dynamic team? As a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, you'll travel across the district to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and deliver legendary customer experiences. This role combines hands-on merchandising with customer interaction, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced retail environments.

Own the 'start to finish' process for variable store tasks, from visual standards to signage maintenance. With prior retail experience required, you'll support multiple locations while building your career in a company that values rural lifestyles. Mt. Vernon offers the ideal backdrop for this mobile role, blending community ties with professional growth.

A Day in the Life

Imagine starting your day reviewing your district schedule from the FAST Supervisor, then hitting the road in your vehicle to your first Mt. Vernon-area store. You'll dive into planogram resets, meticulously arranging products to match visual guidelines while chatting with team members about inventory needs.

A typical shift includes measuring store spaces, assembling PDQs and fixtures, and hanging fresh signage to boost shopper appeal. Midday brings customer interactions—using the GURA method to greet, uncover needs, recommend solutions, and appreciate each visitor. End your day with cycle counts and recovery tasks, ensuring every aisle shines before wrapping up.

• Travel between stores for flexible task execution
• Perform detailed resets and merchandise assembly
• Deliver peak coverage during high-traffic events

Why Mt. Vernon?

Mt. Vernon, Illinois, is a vibrant hub in Jefferson County, where rural charm meets community spirit. With a strong local economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, it's home to hardworking folks who rely on Tractor Supply Co for farming supplies, pet care, and ranching gear. Living and working here means easy access to Rend Lake for outdoor adventures and a tight-knit vibe that fosters genuine connections.

Mt. Vernon's growing retail sector makes it perfect for merchandising roles, with nearby farms and equine operations demanding top-notch store presentations. The area's low cost of living and family-friendly atmosphere enhance work-life balance, while events like the Jefferson County Fair highlight the community's agricultural roots. Choose Mt. Vernon for a career that aligns with the 'life out here' Tractor Supply champions.

Proximity to Interstate 57 simplifies district travel, connecting you to stores in surrounding Illinois towns. Mt. Vernon's welcoming neighborhoods and local economy provide stability for FAST team members who value flexibility and impact.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Start as a Merchandising Sales Associate and climb the ladder through proven performance. Many FAST team members advance to District Supervisor roles, overseeing larger territories, or pivot to store management positions like Team Leader or Assistant Manager.

Your first 90 days focus on mastering planograms and customer service, with ongoing training unlocking paths to merchandising specialist or operations roles. Tractor Supply Co invests in internal promotions—over 80% of leaders began on the front lines. Long-term, aim for regional merchandising director, leveraging district experience for company-wide impact.

• Structured development programs
• Mentorship from experienced supervisors
• Promotion tracks based on district performance

Compensation & Benefits

Earn competitive pay reflecting your merchandising expertise and travel demands, with opportunities for overtime during peak seasons. Tractor Supply Co offers comprehensive benefits starting day one, including health, dental, and vision coverage tailored for active lifestyles.

Illinois Merchandising Sales Associate salaries typically range based on experience, with added incentives like performance bonuses and mileage reimbursement for district travel. Enjoy 401(k) matching, paid vacation, and employee discounts on farm, pet, and outdoor gear—essentials for Mt. Vernon living.

• Hourly wages plus overtime pay
• Reimbursement for vehicle travel
• Generous PTO and holiday pay

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around 'Legendary Customer Experience' and supporting rural communities. As a FAST Team Member, you'll join a collaborative district team that celebrates adaptability, integrity, and passion for the outdoor life.

Expect a supportive environment where proactive communication thrives—share solutions with supervisors and bond with store teams over shared ranching knowledge. Company values like respect, service, and excellence foster ethical problem-solving and minimal conflict. In Mt. Vernon, this translates to a family-like atmosphere amid Illinois' heartland pride.

Team events and recognition programs build camaraderie, ensuring you feel valued while delivering top-tier merchandising.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your merchandising career with Tractor Supply Co in Mt. Vernon, Illinois? 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 for district travel.

Does this role require travel in Mt. Vernon, Illinois?

Yes, you'll travel between stores in the assigned district using your personal vehicle, often for shifts of 4-8+ hours, supporting planograms and tasks across locations.

What is the GURA process mentioned in the job?

GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Appreciate—Tractor Supply's method for delivering exceptional customer service during interactions.

Are flexible hours available for this position?

Shifts vary by store needs, including days, nights, and overtime, with peak coverage for events like post-Thanksgiving rushes.

What benefits does Tractor Supply Co offer Merchandising Sales Associates?

Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, employee discounts, and travel reimbursements, supporting your work in Mt. Vernon.

Is a high school diploma required?

Preferred but not required; you must read, write, and count accurately regardless of formal education.

How does career growth work in this role?

Excel in FAST tasks to advance to supervisor, management, or specialized merchandising positions with company training support.

What physical demands does the job involve?

Expect lifting, standing on hard surfaces, moderate noise, and travel; indoor/outdoor work with safety adherence.

Can I work part-time as a Merchandising Sales Associate?

Shifts are generally 4+ hours based on business needs, with full flexibility required but no guaranteed part-time.

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