Program Associate Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Rural King Farm and Home Store strives to create a positive and rewarding workplace for our associates. We offer opportunities for growth, competitive benefits, a people first environment, and an opportunity to work alongside dedicated associates who share a passion for providing an exceptional experience and service to our rural communities. Whether you are starting an entry-level position or joining with professional experience, Rural King encourages professional growth and provides the necessary resource to help you succeed and grow with us.

When you join the Rural King team, you become a contributing member in supporting the needs of and making a difference in the lives of those within the people and communities 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

The purpose of the Assistant Store Manager is to oversee various responsibilities, including inventory management, associate leadership, and customer engagement. Your ability to make strategic decisions, cultivating a high-performing team, and ensure operations excellence will be critical to our store's success.

• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee inventory management, stock replenishment, and merchandise displays to optimize sales and customer satisfaction.
• Make impactful decisions related to hiring, coaching, performance management, and terminations for associates under your leadership.
• Conduct comprehensive performance reviews for associates reporting to you, identifying areas for development and recognition.
• Define expectations for associates and hold them accountable for their roles, fostering a culture of accountability.
• Champion exceptional customer service by engaging with customers, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and enhancing their shopping experience.
• Coach and train associates on the customer engagement model, contributing to a high-performing team that consistently delivers exceptional customer experiences.
• Address any negative customer experiences by defusing situations and empowering your team to resolve issues effectively.
• Regularly update the Store Manager about departmental performance, associate progress, operational efficiencies, and customer feedback.
• Ensure that the store operates in accordance with safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards.
• Ensure that all operational procedures and processes align with company policies, standards, and legal regulations.
• Help drive company initiatives, such as the customer engagement model, RK Visa Card, RK Plus Protection Plan (RKPPP), etc.
• Supervise the appropriate procedures for disposing of firearms in all gun transactions when designated.
• May be required to conduct regular audits to assess compliance in areas such as sales transactions, cash handling, inventory management, firearm audits and security protocols.
• May be required to analyze shrinkage data, identify trends, and implement measures to minimize loss and improve operational efficiency.
• Demonstrate the autonomy, independent judgment, and discretion in leading the team to achieve or exceed the goals and strategies of the store.
• Participate in cross-training for flexibility in various departments and responsibilities.
• 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.

Yes

• At least 2 years of retail experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proven track record of success and a desire to take on increasing levels of responsibility and leadership.
• Ability to provide clear direction, set performance expectations, and motivate team member to deliver high quality results.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, coach, and develop associates, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas, instructions, and information clearly and concisely.
• Demonstrated ability to actively listen, ask relevant questions, and provide thorough and articulate responses.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport, foster relationships, and collaborate effectively.
• Strong orientation toward process-driven approaches, demonstrated through previous experience an accomplishment.
• Proven ability to analyze and optimize complex processes to achieve operational excellence.
• Contribute to the decision-making process by actively participating in discussions, providing insightful input, and challenging ideas constructively.
• Demonstrated experience making sound decisions in a professional context. Proven track record of evaluating options, considering relevant factors, and achieving desired outcomes.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize activities, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.
• Proven track record of consistently producing error-free work and meeting quality standards.
• Demonstrated experience applying a flexible mindset that allows for the successful navigation of ambiguity and uncertainty.
• Strong resilience and adaptability to maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity and setbacks.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Flexibility with hours: ability to work a 50-hour workweek (10-hour shifts, 5 days per week) with varied hours, days, night, and weekends as business dictates.
• Must meet federal requirements to qualify to obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL) and any applicable local requirements.

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Ability to operate machinery such as a forklift, pallet jack, handheld inventory device and other retail equipment.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull a minimum of 30 pounds repetitively and 31-50 pounds intermittently.
• Able 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 tasks.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.