Farmer Business Development Intern - New Roots

International Rescue Committee • Salt Lake, UT

3d

About The Position

The Farmer Business Development Intern supports the growth and success of small-scale and beginning farmers in IRC’s New Roots program in Salt Lake Valley. New Roots connects refugees with community gardens and farm sites, supporting food production and access to health, nutrition, and educational services. The intern assists with farmers market operations, client services, and agricultural business development, including educational events, greenhouse management, access to resources and training, digital system improvements, documentation, and direct client support.

The internship provides hands-on experience coordinating farmers market operations and supporting refugee and New American farmers. The intern will develop skills in client communication, event planning, and case management; learn about sustainable farming and digital documentation; and build cultural competency and understanding of local food systems. The commitment is 15–20 hours per week for 12 weeks and may include evenings and Saturdays. Internships are unpaid. Mileage reimbursement is available for use of a personal vehicle, and eligible interns may receive a nominal per diem reimbursement under current intern policies. The start date is January 12, 2027, with the final date to be confirmed.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or graduated less than six months ago.
• Motivated, creative, flexible, and able to work independently.
• Strong organization and communication skills, with the ability to work as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and comfort working with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Valid driver’s license, active insurance policy, and access to reliable transportation.
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and lift 30 pounds.
• Complete an IRC background check and all related orientations and trainings.

Nice To Haves

• Background in nutrition, public health, health promotion, social work, or environmental and sustainability studies.
• Gardening, farming, or business operations experience, or a desire to learn.

Responsibilities

• Participate in and coordinate farmers market operations, including benefits distribution, vendor participation, space allocations, and logistics.
• Help organize workshops and events, including invitations, interpreter coordination, and speaker coordination.
• Collaborate with the team and shadow colleagues to learn about farming business operations.
• Propose and implement digital contract-signing systems to improve communication and clarity with farmers and streamline documentation.
• Assist with client case management, including taking notes during business-planning meetings and managing a client caseload.
• Identify resources, workshops, and technical assistance suited to farmers’ individual goals.
• Provide logistical and administrative support for smooth operations and project completion.
• Connect clients with emergency food assistance resources.
• Keep documents updated in a timely manner.
• Perform other relevant duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Mileage reimbursement when using a personal vehicle.
• Eligible interns receive a nominal per diem reimbursement aligned with current intern reimbursement policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed