Inventory Data Analyst

Overview

About us

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 150 locations across 17 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

Company paid YMCA Family Members

Responsibilities

What You’ll do

As an Inventory Data Analyst, you will play a critical role in supporting our replenishment and inventory planning strategies across 140+ retail locations and distribution centers. You will be responsible for analyzing historical sales data, vendor performance, and SKU-level trends to drive more accurate demand forecasts, reduce stockouts, and optimize inventory turnover.

• Analyze category-level trends to generate insights that inform replenishment strategies and safety stock levels.
• Develop and maintain reports and dashboards (Power BI, Excel, Looker) to support daily inventory decision-making.
• Track vendor performance, including fill rates, lead time analysis, delivery schedules, and compliance metrics.
• Collaborate with category teams, replenishment analysts, and demand planners to align on forecast needs and ordering strategies.
• Build and refine data models to support forecast reviews and drive inventory efficiency.
• Support new store performance tracking and ensure inventory readiness pre- and post-opening.
• Investigate root causes of overstock, stockouts, and dead stock using data mining and trend analysis.
• Review and help define ordering policies and replenishment strategies based on safety stock, lead times, and forecast accuracy.
• 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Qualifications

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 1 year in a data-driven role or analytics experience and a bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Supply Chain, Computer Science, or a related field of study, or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proficiency in SQL, Power BI, Excel, and Python for data querying, transformation, and visualization.
• Strong understanding of retail replenishment cycles, safety stock modeling, and store-level inventory dynamics.
• Familiarity with forecasting methodologies (e.g., linear regression, time series modeling).
• Experience with ERP systems and datasets (Oracle, SAP, or similar).
• Effective communication skills with the ability to present data-driven insights to cross-functional teams.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage and analyze large datasets accurately and efficiently.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication.

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.

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

The pay range for this position is $55,000 - $63,870 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.

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