Assistant Market Manager, Food Access Coordinator

About Mass Farmers Markets (MFM)

Mass Farmers Markets (MFM) is a 501(c)(3) organization

dedicated to strengthening the health of individuals, supporting vibrant

communities, and promoting the viability of local farms through the operation

of farmers markets. Collaborating with farmers, consumers, and community

groups, MFM creates dynamic spaces for local food access and community

engagement. You can learn more about MFM at

https://www.massfarmersmarkets.org/.

Our Markets

Currently, MFM manages five farmers markets in Greater Boston from May to November:

• Central Square Farmers Market, Cambridge — Mondays, 12-6 PM
• Copley Square Farmers Market, Boston — Tuesdays and Fridays, 11 AM-6 PM
• Davis Square Farmers Market, Somerville — Wednesdays, 12-6 PM
• Kendall Square Farmers Market, Cambridge — Thursdays, 12-6 PM
• Fish & Farm Market, Boston Fish Pier — Saturdays, 11 AM-3 PM (through October 26th, new in 2024)

Position Summary

The Assistant Market Manager / Food Access Coordinator serves as an enthusiastic ambassador for our markets. This individual excels in fast-paced team settings, values community building, and is passionate about local food and food access.

The role requires knowledge of food access programs like SNAP, SNAP Match, and HIP, and familiarity with market operations. Responsibilities include supporting vendors, assisting consumers and partners, answering questions, and promoting the market, especially through social media.

MFM is looking for candidates interested in agriculture, food, nutrition, and farmers markets. Reliability, friendliness, self-motivation, and strong communication skills with diverse communities are essential.

Essential Responsibilities

SNAP/EBT Food Access Program

• Handles token currency and processes SNAP/EBT, SNAP Match, and HIP transactions, maintaining accurate records and reports.
• Follows all USDA guidelines for SNAP retailers.
• Ensures vendor compliance with eligible-food rules.
• Communicates clearly with customers about food access programs.
• Maintains EBT equipment, promptly reporting issues.
• Safeguards tokens as cash and tracks them throughout the season.

Market Operations

• Build strong relationships with vendors, offering ongoing support and coaching.
• Provides excellent customer service to shoppers.
• Manages conflicts fairly and confidentially.
• Promotes markets on market days, mainly via social media.
• Collaborate with the market manager on market programming.

Additional Duties

• Communicate regularly with market managers for smooth operations.
• Assists in developing and implementing Food Access Projects as assigned.
• Participates in MFM team meetings (currently Thursdays).
• Supports fundraising and grant activities.
• Perform other tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Knowledge and passion for farmers markets and the local food system.
• Strong communication skills and confidence interacting with diverse groups.
• Dependable, punctual, enthusiastic, and team-oriented.
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills with the ability to multitask.
• Access to reliable transportation.
• Ability to work outside standard hours based on market seasons.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and willingness to learn new tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous farmers market experience.
• Experience as a SNAP/EBT Coordinator.
• Familiarity with SNAP, SNAP Match, and HIP programs in Massachusetts.
• Comfort with social media for sharing market updates and events.
• Knowledge of, or fluency in, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Mandarin, or Cantonese is a plus.

Benefits

All team members enjoy the organization's holidays, volunteer and personal days, earn paid time off, and are eligible for MFM's 401K plan.

Language Proficiency

• While no specific languages are required, fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Mandarin, or Cantonese is preferred.