We’re Hiring a Market Manager!

Job Description

Job Summary

The Farmers Market Manager works with the Market Board of Directors to coordinate all on-site activities during market days, including set-up, vendor placement, compliance with standing rules, and safety enforcement, while also managing off-site tasks such as, communicating with vendors regarding attendance, creating weekly market maps, and record-keeping of such activities. 

Key Responsibilities

1. Market Operations & Logistics

• Supervise market set-up and breakdown, including erecting tents, placing tables, Traffic/border cones, and setting up signage.

• Assign stalls, create a weekly map and distribute to the membership every Thursday.

• Communicate and follow-up with all vendors regarding stalls, placement, and attendance.

• Assist in collection of stall fees and enforce applicable rules.

• Be available to answer questions of market vendors, members and customers

• Ensure the market area is clean, safe, and organized.

• Assist in operation of  the market information booth and management of token systems (e.g., SNAP/EBT/Double Up Food Bucks). 

• Coordinate volunteer tasks and help recruit volunteers.

2. Vendor Management

• Enforce market rules and regulations consistently, implementing corrective action for standing rule infractions with input and in conjunction with the Market Board of Directors.

• Assist in collection of vendor fees and in maintaining accurate records of payments. 

3. Marketing & Promotion

• Assist with the advertisement and promotion of the market via social media, websites,, and local media outlets.

• Work with Market Board of Directors to plan and implement events and manage logistics surrounding market events

• Assist Market Board in planning and set up for special events, community outreach, and entertainment to increase customer traffic, including but not limited to special displays and games, handing out prizes and giveaways, including distributing prizes for vendors to distribute (ie, Easter and Halloween candy) 

. Administrative & Financial Duties

• Report market data (attendance, feedback) to the Market Board of Directors.

• Assist in conducting customer and vendor surveys to evaluate market strengths and weaknesses.

• Assist Market Board of Directors in administrative duties, such as answering emails, questions and messages on social media, and updating vendor handbooks at the direction of the Board. 

Skills & Qualifications

• Experience: Previous experience in event coordination, retail, agricultural management, or nonprofit work a plus

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, with the ability to represent the market professionally, and strong customer service and interpersonal skills. 

• Comfortable interacting with diverse community members.

• Organization: Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.

• Technology: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel), Google Drive, and social media preferred

• Interpersonal Skills: Proven conflict resolution abilities and customer service skills.

• Physical Ability: Ability to lift 30-50 lbs, stand/walk for extended periods and work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, rain, cold).

• Passion: Strong interest in local agriculture, food systems, and community building. 

• Ability and willingness to learn new technology

• Detail-oriented and self-motivated

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Knowledge of Kansas Farmers Market Food Safety Guidelines (or willingness to learn)

• Reliable personal transportation

Working Conditions

• Requires early mornings and weekend availability. Must be available on Saturdays.

• Work is performed in an outdoor environment, rain or shine in all weather conditions 

Schedule & Pay

• Yearly position (50 Saturdays per year)

• Up to 15 flexible hours per week during market operations

• Paid position commensurate with experience