Those interested in building a career at Harps can stay with the company and apply to enter its management trainee program . One entry-level worker at the distribution center asked to enter the trainee program , Ray said . Two years later , he was a store manager .
“ We are looking for managers for the new stores we plan to open ,” Ray said . “ We ’ re not going to force someone to a new store , but if they volunteer to go to a store to further their careers , they can .”
The company selects students to participate in a college intern program during the summers that lasts for 10 weeks . Each week , participants rotate to a new department and learn its operational procedures .
The program is designed to show students what it means to be a manager at Harps and allow the company to seek exceptional students to train for future management consideration .
Store employees may also move up to office jobs in the company ’ s Springdale headquarters , Ray said . Current employees can apply for other positions when those jobs are posted within the company .
The company ’ s employee benefits are excellent , Ray said . Benefits include vacation time , paid holidays , health insurance and a 401 ( k ) pension program .
After working at Harps for a year at least half-time , employees 21 and older are eligible for the company ’ s stock ownership plan .
The company started the program in 2001 after purchasing all stock from its former owners , the Harp family .
“ We have extended and improved our culture since then ,” Ray said . “ Five years ago we started a campaign to become the friendliest retail food store company anywhere . I think our customers have recognized that .”
Harps is a great place to work if you have a positive attitude , Adams said .
“ They can teach you everything you need to know ,” Adams said . “ You learn how to be a problem solver .”
21 21