RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Natural Grocers says it is preparing to expand its footprint in South Dakota with a soon to open store in Rapid City, citing the area’s growing community, vibrant downtown and its role as a gateway to the Black Hills.

The natural and organic grocery retailer, founded in 1955, said it focuses on entering markets where access to affordable, high-quality organic and natural foods can make a meaningful impact.

To begin filling open positions at the Rapid City location, Natural Grocers will host a virtual hiring fair on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

The company said pay for “good4u” Crew members in Rapid City are expected to range from $17 to $23 an hour, depending on position and experience, with the assistant store manager position paying up to $60,000 annually.

Time slots for the virtual event are available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. MDT. Interested applicants can register through Indeed, where they can connect with the recruiting team, learn more about the company and explore job opportunities.

Natural Grocers is also inviting Rapid City residents and people from surrounding communities to a local community meet-and-greet on Monday, May 11, aimed at introducing the company ahead of the store opening.

According to the company, attendees will hear about Natural Grocers’ Five Founding Principles, what sets the retailer apart in the grocery industry and its approach to customer service, followed by a Q&A session.

The event runs from 4 to 6 p.m., with the presentation beginning at 4 p.m., at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel, located at 2111 N. LaCrosse St., Rapid City, SD 57701. Registration is available through Facebook Events.

Natural Grocers said it employs more than 4,000 Crew members across 169 stores in 21 states and offers a range of employee pay and benefit programs. Those include an in-store credit program the company calls Vitamin Bucks, birthday bonus pay, store discounts and credits of up to 30% on Natural Grocers products, and a benefits package for full-time employees that includes medical, dental and vision coverage, a 401k plan and paid time off.

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