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Distribution Associate Jobs in Mattoon, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary As a Warehouse Associate, you will perform a variety of tasks that may include ... distribution, and engineering industries. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an Equal Opportunity ...

Retail Associate

Mattoon, IL

$14.25 - $16.50/hr

... 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2025 revenues of $22.8 billion, we are a Fortune 500 ... The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Retail Associate

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $16.50/hr

... 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2025 revenues of $22.8 billion, we are a Fortune 500 ... The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Distribution Center- Warehouse Associate Location: Arcola, IL Starting Pay for position: $18.00/hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT MILESTONES - HERFF JONES Herff Jones is the leading ...

Early Morning Stock Associate

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

... 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2025 revenues of $22.8 billion, we are a Fortune 500 ... The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Early Morning Stock Associate

Mattoon, IL

$14 - $17.75/hr

... 8 distribution centers nationwide. With 2025 revenues of $22.8 billion, we are a Fortune 500 ... The Associate makes eye contact, smiles, and greets all Customers in a courteous and friendly ...

Merchandise Associate

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Whether you're working in our four global Home Offices, Distribution Centers or Retail Stores-TJ ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Whether you're working in our four global Home Offices, Distribution Centers or Retail Stores-TJ ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Whether you're working in our four global Home Offices, Distribution Centers or Retail Stores-TJ ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Showing results 21-40

Distribution Associate information

See Mattoon, IL salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do distribution associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution associate in Mattoon, IL is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed for distribution associate jobs?

Distribution associates need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and physical stamina to handle tasks like sorting, packing, and shipping items. Familiarity with warehouse management systems and the ability to operate equipment such as forklifts may also be required, along with good communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment.

What is a distribution associate?

A distribution associate works in a warehouse or product distribution facility. As a distribution associate, your job duties are to receive customer orders, locate purchased items, and pack them for shipment. A career as a distribution associate does not require you to have formal education or qualifications, nor is previous experience necessary, though it may be helpful. You should have strong multitasking and organizational skills, as you deal with multiple customer orders simultaneously and may be required to find and restock items without looking through item location databases.

What are some common challenges faced by distribution associates, and how can new hires effectively overcome them?

Distribution Associates often face challenges such as maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing inventory systems, and working efficiently within a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. New hires can overcome these obstacles by staying organized, being proactive in communicating with supervisors and colleagues, and taking advantage of training resources provided by the employer. Developing a strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn new technology or processes can also enhance performance and job satisfaction in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a distribution associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distribution Associate, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, handheld scanners, and warehouse management software is often required. Dependability, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, accurate handling and movement of goods, supporting smooth operations and customer satisfaction in the supply chain.

What is the difference between Distribution Associate vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectDistribution Associate

Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like OSHA safety training are common
Work EnvironmentIndoor warehouse or distribution center, involving physical tasks and equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by retail, logistics, and distribution companies for order fulfillment roles
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared with Warehouse Worker due to similar duties and work settings

The main difference between a Distribution Associate and a Warehouse Worker lies in their specific roles. Distribution Associates typically focus on order picking, packing, and preparing shipments for delivery, often working closely with logistics systems. Warehouse Workers may perform broader tasks such as inventory management, stocking, and general warehouse maintenance. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but Distribution Associates usually have more specialized responsibilities related to distribution processes.

What cities near Mattoon, IL are hiring for Distribution Associate jobs? Cities near Mattoon, IL with the most Distribution Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Distribution Associate job openings in Mattoon, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,529 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Associate Buyer, Tools & Hardware

Rural King

Mattoon, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Rural King rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

605th of 732 rated retailers


Job description

Overview
About us
Rural King is America's Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.
One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.
At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
How we reward you
401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%
Healthcare plans to support your needs
Virtual doctor visits
Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic's Complex Care Program
15% Associate Discount
Dave Ramsey's SmartDollar Program
Associate Assistance Program
RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
24/7 Chaplaincy Services
Company paid YMCA Family Membership
Responsibilities
What You'll Do
As an Associate Buyer you will be collaborating with the Buyer to drive all facets of product assortment, financial planning, and vendor partnerships of the category with strong collaboration with their integrated cross-functional team.
  • Work alongside a team of talented professionals who are passionate about their work and strive for excellence every day.
  • Lead and drive impactful projects that directly contribute to the success and growth of Rural King.
  • Collaborate with Buyers, Inventory Planners, and Sourcing to support driving sales, managing inventory, and achieving the financial goals of the department.
  • Maintain vendor and product information (style, SKU, pricing UPC, etc.) in internal measurement unit (IMU).
  • Set up new vendors, items, and initial orders for seasonal and/or basic programs.
  • Monitor Purchase Orders (PO's) for on-time shipping and fulfillment percentage and follow up with vendors as needed.
  • Maintain order files and execute PO cleanup.
  • Relationships
    • Develop strong vendor partnerships.
    • Partner with suppliers on product development, as well as the Global Sourcing department on private product label development, as needed.
    • Responsible for program management of co-op, vendor allowances, and promotional strategies.
    • Negotiate all pricing, vendor terms, and opportunity buys.
    • Oversee and manage communication with Stores and Distribution Centers.
    • Partner with Logistics and DC for most efficient flow of product to stores.
    • Visit RK Stores to establish open communication and understanding store challenges.
  • Product
    • Stay abreast of market dynamics and competition.
    • Manage pricing, sales, and profit margin of products to plan.
    • Identify new opportunities to deliver products the customer wants and needs.
    • Conduct category reviews as needed (2-3 per year).
    • Develop seasonal merchandise assortments along with pricing and merchandising plans.
  • Planning/Analysis
    • Place, track and insure complete and on-time delivery of all new store orders.
    • Maintain detailed current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends for your area.
    • Generate and leverage reports for effective decision making.
    • Complete assortment planning and product lifecycles.
    • Collaborate to create financial plans (open to buy) that will align with organizational goals.
    • Optimize "in stock" on basic items.
    • Identify poor performing items and categories and reduce inventory and liabilities.
    • Partner with an Inventory Analyst to determine sales, inventory and turn goals including preseason flow plans and projections.
  • Advertising and Promotion
    • Develop and submits advertising and promotional plans that deliver increases in sales and store traffic
    • Ensure accuracy of print advertising and product in stock to 98.5%
    • Collaborate with the E-Commerce Buyer to identify assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies
  • Store Planning
    • Provide timely direction on new SKU's and new programs to Store Planning to develop and maintain accurate planograms
    • Ensure planograms are appropriate to volume and space of stores and grouped for volume levels
  • Team Leadership
    • Learn to lead the team to drive sales, manage inventory, and achieve the financial goals of the department
    • Learn to create and communicate a strategic vision for the department, including visual merchandising strategies
  • Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
  • Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
  • Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King's Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Qualifications
Essential Qualities for Success
  • At least 1-3 years of retail experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
  • Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn ERP and other systems.
  • Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.
  • Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.
  • Strong communication and persuasive skills to negotiate and influence stakeholders at various levels in the organization.
  • Strong understanding of retail business practices.
  • Ability to effectively resolve conflicts and address challenges that may arise in relationships.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, adapting schedules and plans as necessary.
  • Adaptable in response to changing priorities, unexpected challenges, and evolving business needs.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
  • Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
  • Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
  • Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
  • Close vision for computer-related activities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
The pay range for this position is $55,000 - $72,740 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.

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