Role Overview

Merchandising Sales Associate Careers at Tractor Supply Co in Portage, Michigan, offer an exciting opportunity for retail enthusiasts ready to make an impact. As a Field Activity Support Team (FAST) member, you'll travel across districts to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, and deliver legendary customer service. This role combines hands-on merchandising with customer interaction, perfect for those passionate about rural lifestyles and retail excellence.

In Portage, Michigan, Tractor Supply Co values team members who bring energy to store resets and visual standards. You'll own tasks from start to finish, ensuring stores shine for customers seeking farming, pet, and ranching supplies. Join a company committed to improving life out here, with flexible shifts and growth potential.

Whether you're uncovering customer needs or hanging fresh signage, your contributions directly enhance the shopping experience. Merchandising Sales Associate positions demand adaptability and a driver's license, rewarding you with dynamic travel and real-world retail skills. Apply now to start your journey in Portage's vibrant retail scene.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Merchandising Sales Associate at Tractor Supply Co begins with checking your district schedule and hitting the road from Portage, Michigan. You'll arrive at your first store, review the planogram, and dive into resets, carefully arranging products to match visual standards. Mid-morning might involve assembling PDQs or fixtures, ensuring everything is sturdy and appealing.

Lunch on the go fuels you for cycle counts and store measurements, where precision keeps inventory spot-on. Afternoon brings customer interactions—greeting shoppers, using GURA to uncover needs, recommend solutions like equine feed or welding tools, and adding value. Before wrapping up, you'll hang signage, perform recovery, and report progress to your supervisor.

• Start with travel to assigned stores
• Execute planograms and layouts
• Assemble merchandise displays
• Deliver GURA customer service
• Complete counts and recovery tasks

Evenings might include peak coverage, like post-holiday rushes, blending physical work with rewarding connections. This rhythm builds merchandising expertise while serving communities in Michigan.

Why Portage?

Portage, Michigan, stands out as a hub for Merchandising Sales Associates at Tractor Supply Co, blending suburban charm with robust local economy ties. Nestled near Kalamazoo, Portage boasts a thriving manufacturing and agriculture sector, drawing customers for ranching supplies and pet products. The community's family-friendly vibe, with parks like Portage Creek Bicentennial Pathway, mirrors Tractor Supply's out-here lifestyle.

Working in Portage means supporting nearby farms and equine enthusiasts, fueling Michigan's rural heartland. The area's low unemployment and growing retail presence offer stability, while events like the Portage Summer Arts Festival foster team spirit. Portage's strategic location eases district travel, connecting you to diverse stores.

Local economy perks include proximity to Whirlpool headquarters, boosting demand for tools and welding gear. Portage, Michigan, delivers work-life balance with top-rated schools and recreational spots, ideal for FAST team members. Choose Portage for a career where community impact meets professional growth at Tractor Supply Co.

Career Growth at Tractor Supply Co

Tractor Supply Co invests in Merchandising Sales Associates for long-term success, starting with your first 90 days of hands-on training in planograms and GURA service. Excel here, and promotions to District FAST Supervisor or Store Team Lead await, with clear ladders to merchandising manager roles. Many associates advance to multi-unit oversight within two years.

Company-wide programs like Leadership Development equip you with skills for regional positions. In Portage, Michigan, internal transfers to management tracks are common, backed by tuition aid for further education. Career storytelling from current leaders highlights paths from FAST to store operations director.

• 90-day onboarding mastery
• Promotions to supervisor roles
• Leadership training access
• Internal job postings priority

Growth at Tractor Supply Co means turning merchandising passion into sustained retail leadership, with mentorship fostering your rise.

Compensation & Benefits

Merchandising Sales Associate salaries at Tractor Supply Co in Michigan range competitively, often $15-$20 hourly based on experience, equating to $31,000-$42,000 yearly with overtime. Mileage reimbursement supports travel, while performance bonuses add earning potential. Transparency ensures you know what to expect in Portage's market.

Benefits shine with comprehensive health plans covering medical, dental, vision from day one. 401(k) matching, paid vacation, and associate discounts on gear sweeten the deal. Wellness incentives and tuition reimbursement support your lifestyle and ambitions.

• Hourly pay plus overtime
• Travel mileage pay
• Health and retirement benefits
• Product discounts

This package positions Tractor Supply Co as a top employer for merchandising roles in Michigan.

Team & Culture

Tractor Supply Co's culture revolves around Legendary Customer Experience, with FAST teams embodying teamwork and adaptability. In Portage, Michigan, associates form tight-knit groups sharing rural life passions, from farming tips to pet care. Leaders prioritize open communication, empowering self-starters to solve issues ethically.

Diversity thrives, welcoming backgrounds in ranching, welding, or retail. Recognition programs celebrate planogram excellence and service wins, building E-E-A-T through proven expertise. Your voice matters in safety and process improvements.

This supportive environment turns colleagues into lifelong networks, fueling job satisfaction in dynamic merchandising sales associate roles.

How to Apply

Ready to launch your Merchandising Sales Associate career at Tractor Supply Co in Portage, Michigan? Review the qualifications and submit your application today. Apply using the button above to join the FAST team and start making a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Merchandising Sales Associate do at Tractor Supply Co? FAST Team Members travel to district stores to execute planograms, assemble fixtures, maintain signage, and provide customer service using GURA. They ensure visual standards and inventory accuracy while adapting to varied shifts.

Do I need prior experience for this role in Portage, Michigan? Yes, 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.

What are the working hours like? Shifts vary by store needs, typically 4-8+ hours, including days, nights, weekends, and overtime. Flexibility is key for district travel from Portage.

Is travel required for Merchandising Sales Associates? Yes, you'll use your personal vehicle to visit multiple stores in the district, with mileage reimbursement provided.

What benefits does Tractor Supply Co offer? Competitive pay, health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, associate discounts, tuition aid, and career growth programs support your success.

How does GURA customer service work? GURA stands for Greet, Uncover needs, Recommend solutions, and Ask to add value—ensuring every interaction delights customers.

Can I advance from this role? Absolutely, many move to supervisor or management positions after mastering FAST duties and leadership training.

What physical demands are there? Expect lifting, standing on hard surfaces, and moderate noise in indoor/outdoor settings while adhering to safety guidelines.

Is a high school diploma required? Preferred but not mandatory; strong reading, writing, and counting skills are necessary regardless.