Assistant Manager

Assistant Store Manager

Rural King is seeking an Assistant Store Manager to help lead daily store operations while delivering an outstanding customer experience. This role partners with the Store Manager to drive sales, develop associates, oversee merchandising and inventory, ensure operational excellence, and create a safe, engaging shopping environment.

The Assistant Store Manager is a key leader responsible for coaching and developing associates, improving business performance, supporting recruiting and hiring efforts, and leading with Rural King's Values of People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.

Responsibilities

What You'll Do

Store Operations & Business Performance

• Partner with the Store Manager to oversee daily retail operations, sales performance, inventory management, merchandising, pricing, and operational excellence.
• Monitor business performance and implement strategies to improve productivity, profitability, customer satisfaction, and store results.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, operational procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Support scheduling, labor planning, inventory accuracy, cash handling, shrink reduction, and loss prevention initiatives.

Leadership & Associate Development

• Recruit, interview, hire, onboard, coach, and develop associates while building a positive, high-performing team.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide coaching and recognition, and hold associates accountable for achieving expectations.
• Foster an inclusive work environment focused on teamwork, communication, continuous improvement, and career development.
• Lead by example while supporting succession planning and developing future store leaders.

Customer Experience

• Deliver exceptional customer service by engaging customers, resolving concerns, and creating a positive shopping experience.
• Coach associates on customer engagement, service standards, and sales-driving behaviors.
• Support company initiatives, promotions, customer loyalty programs, and community engagement efforts.

Safety, Compliance & Store Support

• Promote workplace safety while supporting OSHA compliance, accident reporting, and company safety initiatives.
• Support inventory audits, operational compliance, firearm compliance (when applicable), and asset protection efforts.
• Maintain confidentiality of associate and company information while partnering with Store Support Center teams.
• Participate in cross-training and perform other leadership responsibilities as assigned.

What We're Looking For

• 2+ years of retail leadership, retail management, assistant manager, or supervisory experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Experience with retail operations, merchandising, inventory management, scheduling, and customer service.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational skills.
• Ability to analyze business performance and drive operational improvements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, retail technology, POS systems, and inventory management systems.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Flexibility to work varied schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and a 50-hour workweek based on business needs.
• Must meet federal requirements to qualify for a Federal Firearms License (FFL), when applicable.

Qualifications

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to operate forklifts, pallet jacks, handheld inventory devices, and other retail equipment.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to navigate and access all store facilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.
• Close vision required for computer-related activities.

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

Why Join Rural King?

At Rural King, we believe our people are the foundation of our success. As a family-owned company with a strong history of growth, we are committed to helping our associates build rewarding careers through hands-on training, leadership development, and a culture that values teamwork, integrity, and customer service.

When you join our team, you'll enjoy:

• Competitive pay
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Associate discounts
• Career growth opportunities with a company that promotes from within
• Leadership training and ongoing professional development
• A collaborative, team-focused work environment
• The opportunity to make an impact while serving the communities where we live and work
• The stability of a growing, family-owned retailer dedicated to your success

Compensation

Exact compensation determined by factors such as geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. Eligible associates may also receive overtime pay in compliance with applicable laws.