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, 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 (no cost to you!) * Associate Assistance Program * RK Cares Associate Hardship Program * 24/7 Chaplaincy Services

What You’ll do

As the Product Development Specialist you will collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to drive growth in various categories, ensuring high-quality offerings at competitive prices.

• Lead Rural King’s import product development projects from concept through production, ensuring seamless execution and timely delivery.
• Identify low-cost, high-quality products, emphasizing offshore sourcing to maximize value for our customers.
• Cultivate and nurture relationships with external suppliers and factories, leveraging negotiation skills to secure competitive pricing for various products.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with team members and departments to create and execute strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating import receipt volume by 10% annually and expanding our Private Label offering with a target of 5% annual SKU growth.
• Deliver presentations on cost-saving opportunities and product plans to multiple stakeholders, including buyers and VPs.
• Oversee all project details, including branding, packaging, manuals, and quality control, ensuring adherence to established standards and completion within specified timelines.
• Facilitate daily communication with sourcing, marketing, replenishment, inventory planning, and merchandising teams to streamline operations and resolve any issues that may arise.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of product specifications, standards, safety warnings, assembly instructions, and product manuals, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• 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.

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 5 years of sourcing experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally.
• Knowledge of standards such as: ANSI, NSF, UL/ETL/CSA.
• Understanding of HTS codes and duty and tariff regulations.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Oracle Systems.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

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