Maryland Farmers Market Association/Research Analysis & Data Internship

The Maryland Farmers Market Association (MDFMA) is a statewide nonprofit that works to cultivate a vibrant, sustainable farmers market community as a vital part of Maryland's local food network. We work with farmers, consumers, and communities to make wholesome, locally-grown foods available to all residents, to educate consumers about food resources, and to support farm viability. MDFMA is currently seeking to fill its seasonal Research Analysis & Data Internship (RAD). The Research Analysis & Data Intern (RAD) will oversee MDFMA’s summer 2018 data collection campaign, including completing extensive site visits to conduct farmer and consumer interviews and working with the data collected to begin preliminary analysis.

This is a volunteer position, based in MDFMA’s office in Millersville MD, with regular travel required (approximately 1-2 days per week) and occasional overnight stays (mileage and hotel expenses will be reimbursed). Hours are negotiable, but a minimum of 3 days per week is preferred. The RAD reports directly to the Executive Director, and may also work under the guidance of the Maryland Market Money Program Coordinator.

The RAD will coordinate both data collection and preliminary data analysis focusing on three demographics:

1. Farmers and other farmers market vendors around the state
2. Farmers market shoppers & potential farmers market shoppers
3. Maryland Market Money participants and customers who use federal benefits (SNAP, Farmers Market Nutrition Program, WIC)

In addition to collecting data, conducting interviews, and researching related topics, the RAD will have the opportunity to write about the work for press releases, MDFMA’s newsletter and blog, and MDFMA reports as appropriate. The RAD will also work on data entry towards the goal of developing a comprehensive MDFMA database of information capturing farmers market statistics across the state.

Training to be provided:

• Background/resources pertaining to Maryland agriculture and farmers markets
• Federal benefits regulations, reporting, and outreach strategies
• Surveying and interviewing best practices
• Approaches to data analysis

Skills required:

• Excellent communication skills
• Willingness to interact with a range of individuals
• Reliable transportation and valid drivers license
• Proficiency with typical office technology and in particular familiarity with Excel

Preferred Skills: 

• Experience with FileMake
• Previous work on surveys / interviews and entering data received

To apply:

Please submit cover letter, resume, and 3 references here: https://goo.gl/forms/YjtKoHqImTXYm3wj2