Vermont New Farmer Network Outreach Intern

BASIC POSITION OVERVIEW: Support VNFN efforts to collect and disseminate information that helps aspiring farmers establish new businesses and post start-up farmers increase the productivity and profitability of their operations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:25 %:             Conduct interviews with 6-8 post-start-up beginning farmers focusing on 1) how these farmers handled critical decision points in beginning farmer development, particularly with regard to “scaling up,” and 2)ongoing and technical assistance needs these farmers anticipate needing over the next 2-3 years.10 %            Work with project coordinator and and partners to develop a 12-month outreach/ communications plan to publish and disseminate 12-16 articles, blog posts, audio and video clips and other materials developed based on the above interviews. 25 %:            Produce 12-16 articles, blog posts, audio clips and/or video clips based on farmer interviews that Network members can use in their newsletters, websites, blogs and social media outreach, and as educational resources in courses and workshops. 25 %:            Analyze data from the interviews and produce a written report on the findings. Work with the PI and coordinator to determine report format. Contents will likely include: key questions for follow-up quantitative surveys/stakeholder needs assessment; as well as research, education and outreach needs for this audience over the next 2-3 years.10 %            Coordinate outreach/tabling opportunities and resources for Network members. As needed produce new outreach materials.5 %            Other duties as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
• Interest/enthusiasm in agriculture and sustainability; working knowledge of sustainable farming practices and food system issues preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills, including interviewing skills.
• Coursework and/or experience in conducting qualitative, case-study research.
• Experience producing digital media (video and audio) preferred.
• Experience with graphic design/html preferred.
• Effective organizational and computer skills; comfort with social media preferred.
• Ability to work flexible, nontraditional hours.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel extensively to work sites, staff meetings, etc.