2026 Summer Internship

Rural King • Mattoon, IL

9d • $16

About The Position

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 140 locations across 14 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. The purpose of the Rural King Internship Program is to offer highly motivated and successful individuals an opportunity to develop skills and knowledge related to their area of degree focus. Participants in the Internship Program will have the opportunity to learn about retail through experiences specific to their assigned department. Specific internship responsibilities will be determined and dependent on the needs of the department and the line of business specialization.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in related field of study which coincides with assigned department.
• Must be at a college junior standing or above at the time of internship.
• Must have a 3.2 GPA or above.
• Ability to learn and become proficient in internal software systems.
• Adaptability and the ability to learn quickly and handle unexpected challenges with maturity and professionalism.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Excel.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Permanent US work authorization required.
• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• 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 activities.

Responsibilities

• Provide entry to intermediate-level professional services, under the supervision of a lead associate, as appropriate to the objectives of the department.
• Participate in projects with the opportunity to directly impact the business and be a part of an innovative and fast-paced environment.
• Contribute to projects designed to develop professional skills and expertise appropriate to the needs of the assigned department.
• Partner with other associates to complete projects and accomplish day-to-day operational tasks.
• Receive guidance, training, and mentoring from department team members to carry out activities and assignments.
• Provide suggestions and feedback to management to improve internal processes and procedures.
• Learn and become proficient in software systems as needed by the department.
• 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.

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees