Firearms Associate (Illinois)

Rural King; Benton (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Healthcare plans

Discounts

Employee assistance program

Chaplaincy services

Job summary

Rural King is seeking a Firearms Sales Associate to deliver exceptional customer service and firearm expertise. You will guide customers on purchases, ensure compliance with laws, and support firearms displays and transactions.

The role requires strong communication, safety awareness, and ongoing learning to stay current on products and regulations. Benefits include a comprehensive rewards package and employee programs.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred experience in firearms sales or related field.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws/regulations regarding firearms sales and transfers.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engaging customers.
• Ability to actively listen and provide thorough responses.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems for transaction processing.

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and create a welcoming atmosphere in the firearms department.
• Engage customers to understand needs, preferences, and budget.
• Provide expert product guidance and recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with all firearms laws and safety practices.
• Complete required firearms training and SOPs.
• Assist with ammunition and accessory selection.
• Maintain organized, well-labeled displays and pricing.
• Process transactions and manage documentation accurately.
• Stay informed about firearm trends and products.
• Resolve customer questions or issues and escalate when needed.
• Build long-term relationships for repeat business and referrals.
• Demonstrate product features and conduct demonstrations as needed.
• Utilize upselling and cross-selling techniques.
• Promote RK Firearms Plus Protection Plan and loyalty program.
• Support store merchandising and cross-training.

Skills

High school diploma

Firearms safety training

Firearms sales experience

Knowledge of firearms laws

Customer service / communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

POS systems

Computer literacy

Job description

Overview

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

Responsibilities

What You’ll do

The purpose of a Firearms Sales Associate is to provide exceptional customer service and expertise in firearms and related accessories. Your in-depth knowledge of firearms regulations, safety practices, and product features will contribute to a positive shopping experience for our customers.

• Greet customers with a warm and friendly demeanor as they enter the department, creating a welcoming atmosphere and setting the tone for a positive shopping experience.
• Engage the customer in meaningful conversations to understand their specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints by utilizing our customer engagement model.
• Provide expert guidance and unbiased product recommendations to customers based on their individual requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to firearms sales and transfers.
• Complete all required firearm compliance training and demonstrate an understanding of the Firearms SOP.
• Assist customers in selecting appropriate ammunition, accessories, and related products.
• Maintain an organized and visually appealing firearms display area, ensuring products are accurately labeled and priced.
• Process transactions accurately and efficiently, handling payments and necessary documentation.
• Stay updated on current firearm trends, models, and industry news to provide informed recommendations.
• Actively listen to customer concerns, address any questions or issues promptly, and provide appropriate resolutions or elevate to the supervisor, if required.
• Establish and maintain healthy, long-term relationships with customers to generate repeat business and referrals.
• Demonstrate the features and benefits of the products, conduct product demonstrations, and explain technical specifications, as necessary.
• Utilize upselling and cross-selling techniques to maximize sales and increase the average unit per transaction.
• Promote exclusive offers, RK Firearms Plus Protection Plan (RKFPPP), and awareness of the store loyalty program.
• Process special orders, operate the POS register, and resolve return issues as needed.
• Contribute to the visual merchandising efforts by zoning product displays, ensuring proper signage, and maintaining a clean, safe, and attractive sales floor during periods when not assisting customers.
• Participate in cross-training for flexibility in various departments and responsibilities.
• 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

Qualifications

Essential Qualities for Success

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or training in firearms safety is a plus.
• Previous experience in firearms sales or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding firearms sales and transfers.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage customers effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to actively listen, ask relevant questions, and provide thorough and articulate responses.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.
• Proven track record of consistently producing error‑free work and meeting quality standards.
• Proficiency in using computer systems for transaction processing and record‑keeping.
• Strong commitment to maintaining a safe and secure shopping environment.
• Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull a minimum of 30 pounds repetitively and 31‑50 pounds intermittently.
• Must be able to verbally communicate effectively with others (in‑person and via electronic devices).
• Must have close visual awareness.
• Ability to use a ladder and/or pallet jack.

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

The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $19.50 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. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.

Min USD $16.00/Hr.

Max USD $19.50/Hr.