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Rural Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rural King

Warehouse Recycling Associate

Waverly, OH · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Rural King Farm and Home Store 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Clarksville, TN · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Prattville, AL · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Franklin, PA

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Monaca, PA

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Muscle Shoals, AL · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Greensboro, NC · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Rome, GA · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Heath, OH

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Albertville, AL · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Spartanburg, SC

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Cape Girardeau, MO · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Somerset, KY · On-site

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Albertville, AL

About us 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 ...

Rural King

Recovery Associate

Tiffin, OH · On-site

About us 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 ...

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All JobsRural Associate Jobs

Rural Associate information

See salary details

$10

$19

$33

How much do rural associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for rural associate in the United States is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rural Associate vs Community Health Worker?

AspectRural AssociateCommunity Health Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification varies by region
Work EnvironmentRural clinics, health centers, outreach programs in rural areasCommunity settings, clinics, outreach in underserved areas
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, government health agencies in rural regionsNonprofits, public health departments, community organizations

The Rural Associate and Community Health Worker roles share similar credentials and work in community-based settings. While both serve underserved populations, Rural Associates often focus on supporting rural healthcare facilities, whereas Community Health Workers engage directly with community members to promote health education and access.

What jobs can you get in rural areas?

Rural associates typically work in healthcare, education, agriculture, or community services, providing essential support in areas with limited access to urban resources. Common roles include healthcare providers, teachers, agricultural technicians, and social workers, often requiring relevant certifications or training. These jobs often involve outdoor work, community engagement, and adaptability to rural environments.

What is a rural associate?

Rural Associates are professionals who work in rural or remote areas, often providing essential services such as healthcare, education, legal assistance, or community development. Their role typically involves addressing the unique challenges faced by rural populations, such as limited access to resources, infrastructure, and specialized services. Rural Associates may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies, and their work is crucial for improving the quality of life in rural communities.

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

To thrive as a Rural Associate, you need a solid understanding of rural development, community engagement, and project management, typically supported by a relevant degree in agriculture, rural studies, or social sciences. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS mapping systems, and reporting software is often required. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural awareness, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for building trust and fostering collaboration in rural communities. These competencies enable effective implementation of programs and sustainable impact in diverse and often resource-limited rural settings.

What are some common challenges faced by rural associates, and how can they effectively navigate them?

Rural Associates often work in environments where resources and infrastructure may be limited, which can pose unique challenges such as slower communication, logistical hurdles, and the need to adapt to varied community needs. They may also need to build strong relationships with local stakeholders to gain trust and ensure successful project implementation. To navigate these challenges, it's important for Rural Associates to be resourceful, proactive in problem-solving, and open to learning from the local community. Collaborating closely with colleagues, local leaders, and external partners can help overcome obstacles and drive meaningful outcomes.

What cities are hiring for Rural Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Rural Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Rural jobs?

The most popular types of Rural jobs are:

What states have the most Rural Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rural Associate jobs include:

Rural Associate jobs near you

Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center

University of Idaho Job

Moscow, ID

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Internal Posting? Posting Number SP005324P Position Title Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center Division/College College of Agricultural & Life Sciences Department Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) Location Boise Posting Context Statement
The Western Rural Development Center enhances the capacity of the region's land-grant universities and colleges and Cooperative Extension Services to help rural communities thrive and become self-sustaining. It also partners with local communities, native nations, decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and families to address a range of rural development issues. The WRDC works in conjunction with the other three Regional Rural Development Centers in the country to achieve their shared mission.
WRDC is one of four Regional Rural Development Centers (RRDCs) established by Congress's Rural Development Act of 1972. It is a collaborative effort between the United States Department of Agriculture and the University of Idaho.
Position Overview
The Associate Director leads highly specialized and multifaceted research and Extension programs, directing the work of junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and professional staff. The position plays a key leadership role in advancing the WRDC's mission by supporting day-to-day operations, promoting collaborative multistate initiatives, and driving integrated research and outreach efforts across the western United States.
This role combines advanced scientific expertise with strategic and administrative oversight. The Associate Director directs the work of junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and research associates, establishing priorities, performance standards, and accountability systems. The individual is expected to serve as a principal investigator on sponsored projects. The position ensures that scientific findings are translated into practical, evidence-based applications that strengthen rural communities and inform policy and practice.
The Associate Director maintains an independent research and Extension portfolio while often maintaining active research collaborations external to the university. The Associate Director collaborates closely with the WRDC Director and institutional partners to guide programmatic initiatives and facilitate integrated teams spanning research, education, and Extension functions.
Duties may include:
  • Selecting, developing, and managing research and Extension portfolios, with a focus on rural community and economic development.
  • Support the WRDC Director in strategic planning, day-to-day management, and coordination of WRDC programs and operations.
  • Hiring, training, and supervising a team of research and Extension support staff, postdoctoral fellows, and junior scientists, including performance evaluation.
  • Assigning and managing designated research and Extension program space.
  • Oversee technical and administrative aspects of funded projects, including budgeting, deliverable tracking, and reporting.
  • Conduct original, applied research and perform complex analyses to inform community and regional development practices.
  • Expected to lead and co-author peer-reviewed publications, Extension materials, and professional presentations.
  • Review and provide consultation on scientific and Extension projects, proposals, or methodologies.
  • Engage with partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to align research and outreach efforts with regional needs and priorities.
  • Facilitate multistate and interdisciplinary collaborations that integrate research, education, and Extension functions. May mentor graduate students
  • Other duties as assigned.
Unit URL
wrdc.uidaho.edu
Position Qualifications
Required Experience
  • One year of research and/or outreach experience in community development issues
  • One year of experience supervising and managing staff
  • One year of experience managing and conducting significant original research or Extension, or serving as a senior collaborator on a multi-scholar research and Extension initiative
  • Experience with U.S. rural community development issues; demonstrated knowledge of issues facing U.S. rural community development may substitute for this experience.
Required Education
  • Ph.D. in applied economics, rural sociology, political science or closely related field
Required Other
  • Ability to travel
  • Ability to work nonstandard business hours, including weekends and holidays
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles
Additional Preferred
  • Demonstrated record of research
  • Demonstrated Extension, outreach experience, or cooperation
  • Knowledge of the U.S. land grant institution system
  • Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with constituents, client groups, and the general public
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • None

Degree Requirement Listed degree qualification is required at time of application
Posting Information
FLSA Status Exempt Employee Category Exempt Pay Range Commensurate with Experience Type of Appointment Fiscal Year FTE
1.0
Full Time/Part Time Full Time Funding This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding. A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy. No Posting Date 06/18/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
  • Applications received by August 1, 2026, will receive first consideration.
  • If you would like to receive a full position description, including responsibilities, visit this website for a copy. https://wrdc.uidaho.edu/job-announcements/
  • Unofficial transcripts can be uploaded to the posting documents section. In addition, please note that all the following documents are required and can be submitted under the appropriate document number. Ensure that these statements align with your CV:
  1. Other Document 1 - Research Statement in Community Development
  2. Other Document 2 - Extension Statement in Community Development
  3. Other Document 3 - Management Approach Statement
  4. Other Document 4 - 1 research paper addressing a Community Development issue
Applicant Resources https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources Background Check Statement
Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.
EEO Statement
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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