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Farmers Market Manager

JoKay Events
Contract
On-site
Orland Hills, IL
$17 - $18 USD hourly
We are seeking highly organized and detail-oriented Farmers Market Event Manager to oversee and manage its weekly Farmers Market. This position requires a proactive individual with strong leadership, customer service, and event management skills.

*Market Operations & Logistics*
* Plan weekly vendor placement, ensuring a well-balanced market layout.
* Arrive no later than 4:00 AM to oversee setup and remain until the market is fully cleaned up (around 1:30 PM).
* Set up market signage, city tents, tables, chairs, and other required equipment (*must lift up to 30 lbs and scale a ladder*).
* Ensure vendor parking areas are clear, coordinating with law enforcement for any abandoned vehicles.
* Supervise vendors' arrival, setup, and compliance with Farmers Market policies.
* Oversee vendor and patron *safety*, ensuring adherence to local health and safety regulations.
* Ensure that all City-provided equipment (tents, barricades, signs, storage sheds) is stored properly after each market.

*Vendor & Customer Relations*
* Serve as the primary point of contact for vendors, customers, and city officials during market hours.
* Address customer and vendor concerns, enforcing rules as necessary.
* Issue verbal warnings for violations and escalate unresolved issues to the Farmers Market Committee.
* Approve vendor early departures as needed.
* Foster positive relationships with vendors to ensure a *diverse, high-quality* market.

*Financial & Program Management*
* Operate the *EBT machine* and manage the *SNAP/Link Match program* to ensure food accessibility for all patrons.
* Track and report *vendor payments, fees, and other financial transactions*.
* Provide weekly patron attendance counts and other market metrics.
* Assist with budgeting and financial management to keep the market sustainable.

*Marketing & Community Engagement*
* Work with the City’s marketing team to promote the Farmers Market via social media, newsletters, and local partnerships.
* Help coordinate *special events, entertainment, and live demonstrations* at the market to increase community engagement.
* Engage with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and sponsors to enhance the market experience.

*Administrative Duties & Reporting*
* Submit a *weekly written report* summarizing vendor attendance, rule violations, complaints, patron counts, and any incidents.
* Maintain organization of all storage, equipment, and records.
* Ensure compliance with local *health and safety codes*, including permits and inspections for food vendors.

*Qualifications & Requirements*
* *Minimum 1 year experience* managing or assisting in a farmers market OR *2+ years event management experience* (e.g., weddings, trade shows, festivals, conventions).
* Strong *leadership, customer service, and conflict resolution* skills.
* Ability to *multi-task and problem-solve* under pressure.
* *Comfortable working outdoors* in various weather conditions.
* Experience with *handling cash, financial tracking, and vendor payments* is a plus.
* Ability to operate an *EBT machine and manage the SNAP/Link Match program* (training will be provided if necessary).
* Must have a valid *driver’s license and reliable transportation*.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract, Temporary, Internship

Pay: $17.67 - $18.52 per hour

Shift:
* 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person