Community Engagement Manager Job at MCDOWELL LFAC in Marion

Benefits Free food & snacks Paid time off Wellness resources McDowell Local Food Advisory Council (LFAC) is a 501(c)(3) non‑profit organization that was formally established in 2018. LFAC envisions a sustainable local food system enhancing livelihoods for farmers, ensuring food security, and improving overall health and wellness for all. As part of its mission, LFAC operates the Foothills Food Hub (FFH) and the Marion Tailgate Market. Together, these programs strengthen community health by ensuring local food is affordable and accessible, increasing local food purchasing, supporting the viability of farming and agriculture, and creating meaningful opportunities for community engagement and enrichment. The Community Engagement Manager plays a critical role in advancing LFAC’s mission and programs. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this position manages the Marion Tailgate Market, leads local food advocacy and community outreach efforts, and supports the development of community‑focused food projects at the Foothills Food Hub. Tise is a salaried, full‑time position (35‑40 hours per week), with work occurring Monday through Saturday. The schedule is flexible during the week, with increased weekend commitments during the peak market season (May‑October). The ideal candidate is excited to be active in the community and brings a strong understanding of community health and local food systems, experience working across diverse communities, and commitment to equity, collaboration, and mission‑driven work. Key Responsibilities Marion Tailgate Market Management Serve as Market Manager for the Marion Tailgate Market, a seasonal Farmer’s Market operating every Saturday from May through October, and lead the strategy for growing the market and ensuring its success Curate and manage a six‑month market calendar by coordinating farmers, vendors, community partners, sponsors, and special events Be on site for approximately 85‑90% of market dates Guide promotion and advertising efforts for the market and special events in collaboration with LFAC’s communications team Maintain accurate financial records and manage the market budget with integrity Support fundraising, sponsorship development and grant‑related efforts connected to the market Local Food Advocacy & Community Outreach Lead McDowell LFAC’s local food advocacy, education, and outreach efforts to increase public awareness of and engagement in LFAC’s mission and the health, economic, and community benefits of local food Engage community members, partners, staff, volunteers through multiple channels to expand and strengthen a network of local food advocates Represent LFAC at community events, forums, partner convenings as necessary Project Development & Program Support Support the development of local food and community projects, including initiatives focused on: Increasing market outlets and economic opportunities for farmers, growers, and producers (ex. Retail development, cooperative buying, wholesale markets) Increasing access to healthy food across diverse populations (e.g., food delivery programs, nutrition education, cooking classes, food processing) Collaborate with LFAC staff and partners to move projects from concept to implementation As a McDowell LFAC staff member, you will be expected to: Support food distribution efforts, loading and distributing food boxes as needed Engage respectfully with clients and community members at distribution sites to support relationship building Maintain a valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally Complete additional assignments by the LFAC Executive Director in support of the mission and programming of the organization as needed Ideal Background and Experience Bilingual candidates are highly encouraged to apply Demonstrated understanding of social justice, racial equity, and social determinants of health as they relate to food access and community health Background or experience in one or more of the following areas: Sustainable Agriculture Public Health Community based or nonprofit programs Experience working across sectors and alongside diverse populations Strong interpersonal skills, including comfort with public speaking, facilitation, and stakeholder coordination Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong organizational skills with consistent follow‑through on tasks and responsibilities Ability to think critically, problem‑solve, and adapt in a dynamic work environment Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Outlook, Excel, Word, etc.) Grant writing experience is a plus Familiarity with food production, food manufacturing, food safety, food labeling, a plus Benefits Paid sick time and three weeks paid vacation in the first year Professional development support Monthly local food stipend Optional employee-paid benefits available through the organization including vision, dental, and life insurance Our Commitment to Equity LFAC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, people with working‑class backgrounds, women, immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, and members of other structurally excluded communities. #J-18808-Ljbffr