Farmers Market Assistant

Position Overview

The Market Assistant plays a key operational role in ensuring the smooth execution of SEL’s farmers’ markets. This part-time, on-site position focuses exclusively on day-of market activities, including setting up and operating the SEL booth, managing market currencies, and providing exceptional customer service to market visitors. Reporting to the Market Manager, the Market Assistant ensures a welcoming, efficient, and safe market environment.

Schedule of Hours

SUMMER - Our summer market team consists of two seasonal openings for the Market Assistant positions. Each person will be assigned between one and three weekly locations each, depending on availability.

The following are hours a Market Assistant is needed on site, which includes at least an hour before and after market open hours and time driving the SEL van from the office to market.

• Durham, June - October (18 weeks) on Mondays from 12:30pm - 7:30pm
• Dover, June - October (18 weeks) on Wednesdays from 12:30pm - 7:30pm
• Exeter, May - October (24 weeks) on Thursdays from 12:00pm - 8:00pm
• Portsmouth, May - November (26 weeks) on Saturdays from 6:00am - 2:00pm
• These days will be divided between two positions with days divided depending on availability of each person.

WINTER - Our winter market team consists of one seasonal opening for the Market Assistant position. This position will work all of our Winter Farmers’ Market dates (7am-3pm) with the Market Manager.

• Seasonal Market Assistants may be considered for a position in the following season based on mutual interest, availability, and organizational needs.

Responsibilities

Market Operations:

• Set up, maintain, and tear down the SEL booth and related equipment
• Assist with the SNAP/EBT program, including token distribution, voucher management, and ensuring vendors comply with currency guidelines.
• Keep accurate records of all market transactions and reconcile token receipts with vendors.

Customer Service:

• Provide information to shoppers about market programs, vendors, and food access initiatives.
• Answer questions and assist market visitors to create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

Market Support:

• Collaborate with the Market Manager and vendors to address any operational issues that arise.
• Ensure booth materials are restocked, organized, and ready for use at future markets.
• Assist with special events, promotions, or other market activities as needed.

Qualifications:

• Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a friendly and professional demeanor.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to accurately manage cash/token transactions and maintain records.
• Dependability: Punctual, reliable, and able to work all scheduled markets.
• Teamwork: Collaborative attitude with the ability to work under the direction of the Market Manager and alongside vendors and market staff.
• Physical Requirements: Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for extended periods, and working in varying outdoor weather conditions.
• Driver’s License: Must have a valid U.S. driver’s license and reliable transportation for traveling to market locations.

Compensation and Work Environment

Hours per week: Approximately 8-20 from May - October and 6-10 from November - April

Pay Rate: $16 - $18 per hour, depending on experience

Benefits: Seasonal staff are not eligible for benefits

Schedule: Must attend all markets agreed upon at hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Seacoast Eat Local is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions at Seacoast Eat Local are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. We will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics and encourage applicants of all ages.