Corporate Counsel - Labor and Employment

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 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.

What You’ll do

As a Corporate Counsel, Labor & Employment, you will be: Responsible for providing comprehensive legal counsel and strategic guidance on all labor and employment matters affecting Rural King. You will serve as the primary legal advisor on employment law compliance, labor relations, workplace policies, and employment litigation matters while partnering with Human Resources and business leaders to mitigate legal risks and ensure regulatory compliance across all locations.

• Provide expert legal advice and counsel on all aspects of labor and employment law, including wage and hour compliance, discrimination and harassment issues, workplace safety, employee relations, and termination matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate employment agreements, severance agreements, non-disclosure agreements, non-compete agreements, and other employment-related contracts and policies.
• Manage and coordinate employment-related litigation, working with outside counsel to develop litigation strategy, manage discovery, and achieve favorable resolutions.
• Conduct internal investigations into employee complaints, workplace misconduct allegations, and compliance concerns while ensuring appropriate documentation and follow-up actions.
• Partner closely with Human Resources to develop, implement, and update employment policies, procedures, and training programs that ensure legal compliance and best practices.
• Monitor and analyze changes in federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, providing timely updates and recommendations to leadership and affected departments.
• Provide training and guidance to management and HR personnel on employment law topics, risk mitigation strategies, and proper handling of employee issues.
• Lead and drive impactful projects that directly contribute to the success and growth of Rural King.
• Act as a trusted internal partner across departments to collaborate on initiatives projecting positive business outcomes.
• Work on high-visibility initiatives that allow you to showcase your skills and expertise to both internal and external stakeholders.
• 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.

None

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and admission to practice law in the State of Illinois (or ability to obtain admission within 6 months).
• At least 5 years of labor and employment law experience, preferably with a combination of law firm and in-house corporate experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Human Resources Information Systems and case management software.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to manage legal matters and support business activities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey complex legal concepts, instructions, and recommendations clearly and concisely to non-legal audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to actively listen, ask relevant questions, and provide thorough and articulate legal analysis and responses.
• Experience in presenting legal information to individuals or groups in a clear, engaging, and persuasive manner.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport, foster relationships, and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in adapting communication style and tone to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and at different levels within the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to detail in legal document review and analysis.
• Proven track record of consistently producing error-free legal work and meeting quality standards under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to meticulously review and analyze complex legal documents, contracts, and regulations, identifying potential issues or inconsistencies to maintain high levels of accuracy.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address legal issues, minimizing potential business disruptions and legal exposure.
• Ability to remain composed and focused during high-pressure situations, ensuring quality legal analysis and timely outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience making sound legal decisions in a professional context with proven track record of evaluating legal options, considering business factors, and achieving desired outcomes.
• Ability to make legal recommendations with confidence, even in uncertain or ambiguous regulatory environments.
• Strong communication and persuasive skills to negotiate and influence stakeholders at various levels in the organization and with external parties.

• 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 and document review.

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

The pay range for this position is $105,000 - $135,000 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