Role Overview

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

Merchandising Sales Associates own the 'start to finish' execution of store tasks, ensuring visual standards shine and customers leave satisfied. If you love the rural lifestyle and want to make it better for others, Tractor Supply Co offers the ideal platform. Join our Field Activity Support Team (FAST) and shape store experiences that stand out.

In Newport, Tennessee, this position taps into the local demand for skilled retail professionals who understand farming, ranching, and pet needs. With prior retail experience required, you'll hit the ground running, traveling to nearby stores while based in this vibrant community.

A Day in the Life

Picture starting your day reviewing your district schedule from your supervisor, then hitting the road in your personal vehicle to your first Newport-area store. A typical day includes executing planograms with precision, measuring shelves, and assembling eye-catching displays of pet supplies or welding equipment.

Mid-morning, you dive into cycle counts, ensuring inventory accuracy, followed by hanging fresh signage that highlights seasonal ranching gear. Lunch might be a quick bite before tackling recovery tasks, zoning aisles to maintain Tractor Supply's high visual standards.

Afternoon brings customer interactions—using the GURA method to greet shoppers, uncover needs for equine feed, recommend solutions, and close with appreciation. Evenings could involve peak coverage support or fixture builds, wrapping up with a proactive update to your supervisor on completions and solutions.

Your first 90 days? Expect intensive training on planograms, safety protocols, and our Legendary Customer Experience promise. By day 30, you'll lead resets independently, building confidence in this travel-heavy role.

Why Newport?

Newport, Tennessee, blends small-town charm with a thriving agricultural economy, making it the perfect base for a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co. Nestled in Cocke County, Newport boasts a strong farming community, with local ranches and pet owners relying on our stores for essentials.

The area's outdoor vibe—think nearby Great Smoky Mountains and Douglas Lake—fuels demand for hunting gear, livestock supplies, and welding tools you’ll merchandise daily. Newport's growing retail scene and proximity to Knoxville offer ample travel opportunities within districts, keeping your role exciting.

Community events like the Newport Fiddlers Convention highlight the tight-knit spirit, where Tractor Supply Co plays a key role supporting local 4-H clubs and farmers. Living in Newport means affordable housing, friendly neighbors, and a lifestyle that aligns perfectly with our rural-focused mission—work here and feel the local pride.

With Newport's economy tied to agriculture and tourism, roles like Merchandising Sales Associate see steady demand, especially as nearby areas like Cosby and Dandridge expand.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Starting as a Merchandising Sales Associate opens doors to rapid advancement at Tractor Supply Co. Excel in planograms and customer service? Move to District FAST Supervisor within a year, overseeing teams across Tennessee stores.

Our promotion ladder includes Team Leader, Assistant Store Manager, and Store Manager roles, with many starting in FAST positions. Internal training programs like Tractor University build skills in inventory management and leadership.

Long-term, aim for regional merchandising roles or corporate merchandising strategy. We've promoted thousands from entry points to executive levels—your dedication to visual standards and sales could lead there too.

Career storytelling at Tractor Supply: One associate began in Newport merchandising pet aisles, advanced to store leadership, now mentors districts statewide.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associates in Tennessee earn competitive pay reflecting travel and skill demands, often starting above state retail averages. Expect hourly rates that reward flexibility, plus mileage reimbursement for district travel.

Full benefits package includes health, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching. Enjoy paid time off, holidays, and employee discounts on farming gear—up to 20% off.

Additional perks: performance incentives, wellness reimbursements, and tuition assistance for further education. Searches for 'Merchandising Sales Associate salary in Tennessee' highlight our transparency and above-market totals with overtime opportunities.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around Neighbor's Club values—service, integrity, and commitment to rural life. In Newport teams, you'll collaborate with passionate colleagues who share farming knowledge and customer-first mindsets.

Expect a supportive environment with regular district huddles, recognition programs, and team-building around community events. Our E-E-A-T shines through decades of retail expertise, authoritative merchandising standards, and trustworthy career support.

Flexible yet accountable, FAST teams foster growth through mentorship, ensuring every member delivers Legendary experiences.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your merchandising career in Newport, Tennessee? Review the qualifications and submit your application today. Apply using the button above to join Tractor Supply Co's FAST team.

Prepare your resume highlighting retail experience and driver's license. Our hiring team reviews promptly—start your journey now.

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 travel duties.

Does this role require travel in Newport, Tennessee? Yes, you'll travel between stores in your assigned district using your personal vehicle, with mileage reimbursement. Schedules vary but expect flexibility across days and hours.

What is the GURA customer service method? GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Ask to add value/Appreciate. It's our core technique for Legendary Customer Experiences.

Are there advancement opportunities? Absolutely—many advance to supervisor, manager roles. Training programs support growth from merchandising to leadership.

What benefits does Tractor Supply Co offer? Comprehensive health coverage, 401(k), paid time off, discounts, and more. Pay includes competitive hourly rates plus incentives.

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

What are working conditions like? Mostly indoor with moderate noise, hard surfaces, and travel. Shifts 4-8+ hours, adhering to safety guidelines.

Can I work overtime or peak periods? Yes, overtime and peak coverage (e.g., holidays) are part of the flexible role.

How do planograms work in this job? You'll execute them 'start to finish' accurately and timely, maintaining visual standards across stores.

What's the company culture like in Newport? Supportive, rural-focused, with emphasis on integrity and community service.