2026 Summer Internship

Rural King Internship Program

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.

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

What You'll Do

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.

• 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Essential Qualities for Success

Physical Requirements

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

The pay for this position is max $16.00 per hour with exact compensation determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. Eligible associates may also receive overtime pay in compliance with applicable laws.