Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of sustainable living, the focus on local produce and farmers market suppliers has never been more pronounced.

As the world shifts towards healthier, fresher, and more locally sourced foods, the demand for skilled individuals who can facilitate, enhance, and secure our local food supply chain surges.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a local produce and farmers market supplier?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager envisioning the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the process of local farming and supply,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable local produce and farmers market supplier job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Duties and Responsibilities

Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers are responsible for a variety of tasks related to the cultivation, harvest, and distribution of fresh local produce.

They also manage relationships with farmers markets, restaurants, grocery stores, and other customers.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Farm and cultivate a variety of local, organic produce
• Harvest crops, ensuring quality and adherence to organic farming standards
• Pack and prepare the produce for transport and sale
• Coordinate deliveries to various farmers markets, restaurants, grocery stores, and other locations
• Maintain strong relationships with customers, responding to their needs and preferences
• Represent the farm at local farmers markets, selling produce directly to consumers
• Monitor and respond to changing weather conditions, adjusting farming practices as necessary
• Manage inventory and keep accurate records of crops, sales, and deliveries
• Perform farm maintenance tasks, such as repairing equipment and structures
• Adhere to food safety regulations and standards
• Continually learn about and implement sustainable farming practices

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier to source and provide high-quality, fresh, and locally grown produce for our business.

Responsibilities include establishing relationships with local farmers, sourcing produce, maintaining quality control, and ensuring the supply of fresh and high-quality produce at all times.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of agriculture, a passion for local food systems, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices.

 

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain relationships with local farmers and producers
• Source a variety of fresh, high-quality produce in line with the company’s needs
• Maintain quality control of all produce sourced and supplied
• Stay updated on market trends, seasonality of produce, and customer preferences
• Ensure timely supply of produce, managing logistics as necessary
• Work closely with team to integrate new products and manage inventory
• Comply with all relevant food safety regulations and standards
• Communicate effectively with farmers, customers, and team members

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a similar role or in agriculture or farming
• Knowledge of local agriculture and produce markets
• Strong relationships with local farmers and producers preferred
• Ability to manage logistics and supply chains
• Understanding of food safety regulations and quality control practices
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work well in a team and independently
• High school diploma or equivalent required; degree in agriculture or related field preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to make a direct impact on local food systems

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier
• Work Environment: This position requires both office work and field visits to farms and markets. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Supply Chain Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies depending on experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Do?

Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers are vital links in the food supply chain, connecting the farmers and their produce to the end consumers, usually within a defined geographic area.

They work closely with farmers, gardeners, and other food producers to procure fresh, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats, and other locally-made food products.

They are responsible for sourcing quality produce and products directly from the farms or production facilities, ensuring they meet the quality standards and are fit for consumption.

They often visit the farms to inspect the growth, harvesting, and handling processes of the produce to ensure its freshness and quality.

Suppliers also manage the logistics of transporting the products from the farms to the farmers markets, local grocery stores, or restaurants.

This involves careful planning to maintain the freshness and integrity of the produce, often requiring refrigerated transport and careful handling.

At the farmers market, they set up stalls or booths to display and sell the produce, providing information to customers about the source of the products, the farming practices used, and the benefits of consuming locally-sourced food.

They are also responsible for pricing their products in a way that is fair to both the farmer and the consumer.

Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers are not just business people, but they are also advocates for sustainable agriculture, supporting local farmers and promoting the benefits of consuming fresh, locally-sourced food.

They play a critical role in strengthening local food systems and communities.

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier should possess the skills and qualifications that are essential for the job role, such as:

• Knowledge of different varieties of produce, their seasonality, and farming methods to ensure that the best quality products are sourced and supplied.
• Strong negotiation skills to deal with farmers and other suppliers for purchasing products at the best prices without compromising quality.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for maintaining good relationships with farmers, customers, and the local community.
• Business acumen and the ability to understand market trends, consumer preferences, and competition to make strategic decisions about what products to supply.
• Organizational skills to manage inventory, ensure timely delivery of produce, and coordinate with different vendors.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and quality standards for handling and storing produce to ensure consumer safety.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues that may arise in the supply chain, from sourcing to delivery.
• Physical stamina to handle the demands of the job, which may include lifting heavy boxes of produce, loading and unloading vehicles, and standing for long periods at markets.

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Experience Requirements

Aspiring Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers generally need to have a solid understanding of agricultural practices, supply chain management, and local food regulations.

This experience can be gained through a relevant degree or hands-on experience working on a farm or in a related industry.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience may have gained this through internships or part-time roles on a farm, in a greenhouse, or with another type of agricultural business.

This early experience provides a solid foundation for understanding the growing process, quality control, and the basics of distribution.

Suppliers with 3 to 5 years of experience are often more familiar with the specificities of local and seasonal produce, understand the challenges of supply and demand, and have developed relationships with a network of farmers and buyers.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have in-depth knowledge about the local food industry, have established reliable supply chains, and may have experience managing a team or running their own agricultural business.

This level of experience is usually required for more senior positions or roles with a large-scale distribution responsibility.

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Education and Training Requirements

Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers typically come from a variety of educational backgrounds, however, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually required.

For those interested in this field, courses or degrees in agriculture, horticulture, or business management can provide valuable knowledge.

Specific training in organic farming methods, crop rotation, soil management, pest control, and other agricultural techniques can be helpful.

These are often obtained through community colleges, vocational schools, or extension programs.

Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to farming and selling produce is also necessary.

Therefore, a part of the training often involves learning about these regulations and how to comply with them.

Experience in farming, gardening, or other agricultural work can be beneficial.

Also, having a strong understanding of business operations, including supply chain management, customer service, and basic accounting, is important.

Some suppliers might choose to pursue certifications such as Certified Organic or Fair Trade, which can enhance their reputation and increase their market opportunities.

Despite formal education, much of the learning in this role comes from hands-on experience and learning from other farmers and suppliers in the community.

Continuous learning and adapting to the changing agricultural environment and market trends is a crucial aspect of being a successful Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier.

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Salary Expectations

A Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier can expect to earn an average salary of $59,615 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can greatly vary depending on the scale of operations, location, quality of produce, and the specific market trends.

 

Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier need?

This role requires strong knowledge of farming practices, produce selection, and quality control.

Communication and negotiation skills are important for liaising with farmers, retailers, and customers.

Being able to build and maintain relationships with local farmers is key, as well as understanding market trends, pricing and consumer demands.

Physical fitness may also be necessary for handling and transporting produce.

 

Do Local Produce and Farmers Market Suppliers need a degree?

While a degree is not typically required, having a background in agriculture, business, or a related field can be beneficial.

Experience in farming, sales, logistics, or retail can also provide the necessary skills for this role.

Most important is a strong knowledge of local farming practices, produce, and the ability to develop business relationships.

 

What should you look for in a Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier resume?

Look for experience in sourcing and supplying produce, particularly in a local or farmers market setting.

Any links with local farming communities will be beneficial.

Skills in negotiation, logistics, quality control, and knowledge of market trends should also be evident.

In some cases, a background in farming or a related field may be desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier?

A good Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier is passionate about quality produce and sustainable farming practices.

They are excellent communicators who can negotiate deals and build strong relationships with farmers and customers.

They should be able to spot trends and predict customer needs, as well as manage logistics effectively.

Being able to handle physical work and long hours, especially during harvest seasons, is also important.

 

What are the daily duties of a Local Produce and Farmers Market Supplier?

Daily duties include liaising with local farmers to source produce, checking the quality of the produce, negotiating prices, and coordinating the transport of produce to various locations.

They also monitor market trends, consumer demands, and prices to ensure their offerings stay competitive.

This role may involve frequent travel to farms, markets, and retail outlets.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into the earth of what it truly means to be a local produce and farmers market supplier.

Surprised?

It’s not just about growing and selling crops.

It’s about nurturing the sustainable future, one harvest at a time.

With our comprehensive local produce and farmers market supplier job description template and real-world examples, you’re ripe and ready to make your move.

But why stop at the farm gate?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every crop is a part of the bigger harvest.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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