Farmers Market Associate

Dreaming Out Loud•Washington, DC

1d•$22 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

Dreaming Out Loud’s mission is to create economic opportunities for the DC metro region’s marginalized communities through building a healthy, equitable food system. We are rebuilding urban, community-based food systems through cooperative social enterprise: increasing access to healthy food, improving community health, supporting entrepreneurs and cooperatives from low-income communities, and creating opportunities for at-risk residents to earn sustainable, family-supporting wages and build wealth. We believe that all communities deserve equal access to fresh, healthy food choices, but that achieving this requires moving beyond the “access” paradigm to a focus on community self-determination and food sovereignty. Utilizing the food system as a catalyst, we are working to create an integrated pipeline to jobs, economic opportunity, and community wealth-building for our most marginalized communities. The Market Coordinator will support operations at the Kelly Miller Farmers Market (301 49th Street NE) and/or the Marion Barry Avenue Farmers Market (1303 Marion Barry Ave SE), helping to run weekly markets on Saturdays from June 6th through November 21st. This role contributes to a smooth and welcoming market experience from start to finish, including preparing and transporting materials, overseeing setup and breakdown, and engaging directly with customers. The Market Associate works closely with the Market Coordinator and team members onsite, representing Dreaming Out Loud by sharing information about our offerings, supporting sales, and fostering a positive, community-centered environment.

Requirements

Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and move boxes and equipment on and off vehicles
Ability to stand for extended periods (6+ hours)
Comfort working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
Availability and willingness to work consistent weekly shifts on Fridays and Saturdays
Strong teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively with others
Reliable, dependable, and willing to take initiative
Ability to follow direction while also contributing to team problem-solving
Positive attitude and willingness to engage with customers and community members

Responsibilities

Work and communicate effectively with coworkers, volunteers, vendors, and customers to support smooth market operations
Stay informed on updates related to benefits programs, product availability, and pricing, and follow guidance to ensure accurate communication with customers
Assist with preparing for market days by staging pallets and organizing materials for both market locations
Support coordination with Food Hub staff on inventory and follow food safety and first in, first out standards
Prepare produce signage and help keep market bins stocked with necessary supplies and current promotional materials
Assist with cash handling processes, including maintaining small bills, supporting deposit preparation, and contributing to shift notes
Support market setup and breakdown, helping maintain clean, organized, and visually appealing displays throughout the day
Engage with customers, vendors, and community members to help create a welcoming and positive market environment
Conduct point-of-sale transactions accurately and efficiently
Contribute to end-of-day shift notes, helping to document information accurately and on time
Identify and escalate any customer or on-site issues to the Market Coordinator or team as needed
Follow health and safety protocols to maintain a safe environment for staff and customers
Support promotion of DOL programs, including CSA, grocery delivery, and the Marion Barry Avenue Market and Cafe