Farm Direct Associate

Green Mountain Farm-to-School (GMFTS) is a nonprofit organization promoting the health of Vermont's children, farms and communities by providing programs to connect schools and farms through food and education.

In the 2012-2013 academic year, GMFTS aims to serve school communities in the northern Vermont with school gardens, educational programming and fresh local farm foods, benefiting over 10,000 students. For more information about GMFTS, please visit our website.

Position Overview:

Green Mountain Farm-to-School seeks a dynamic, mission-driven food systems professional with strong communication and organization skills to support the growth of the Green Mountain Farm Direct (GMFD).

The primary responsibilities of the Farm Direct Associate will be to develop, manage, grow, present, and evaluate GMFD's local food distribution and food access initiatives and provide general operational and administrative support. The Farm Direct Associate reports to the Farm Direct Coordinator.

Responsibilities:

Develop, coordinate, and evaluate GMFD local food distribution and food access initiatives by:

• Serving as secondary contact for current GMFD customers and producers
• Assisting with weekly order processing and product list creation
• Working with food buyers to increase local food purchases
• Working with farms to increase the abundance, variety, and availability of local foods for institutions
• Developing, designing, and sharing outreach materials, including web-based publicity and product information
• Supporting training and professional development opportunities for Farm Direct stakeholders
• Analyzing program evaluation reports and offer suggestions to improve the program

Additional duties include: 

• Assist with raising funds for GMFTS programs by researching potential funders, preparing fundraising materials including grant applications, individual appeal materials and assisting in preparation of GMFTS fundraising events
• Provide general operational and administrative support to organization, as necessary

Qualifications:

• A Bachelors degree or equivalent experience
• Customer service experience and/or food service experience
• Program development experience
• Excellent public speaking and writing skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to establish effective and productive working relationships with co-workers and individuals/groups with diverse interests and perspectives
• Knowledge of local food systems and sustainable agriculture
• Valid drivers' license and access to reliable transportation
• Ability lift and move 50 lbs
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly growing non-profit environment 

Compensation: This is a full-time position with salary and benefits.

To Apply:

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to submit your cover letter, resume, and writing sample (non-fiction, 3 pages or less).