Market Manager Job Waco area,Texas USA,Business

Job Title: Market Manager

Hourly Pay Range: $17.00 - $21.00, depending on experience

Organization Overview

The Waco Downtown Farmers Market was established in 2011 as a year-round Saturday market in the heart of downtown Waco. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The mission of Waco Downtown Farmers Market is to operate welcoming and diverse markets that support local farmers and small businesses, increase access to healthy, affordable food, and enrich the Waco community through education and wellness activities.

Summary/Objective

The Market Manager serves as the primary operational leader for weekly Saturday market activities and supports ongoing administrative, vendor relations, and community engagement efforts throughout the week. This role is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all aspects of market operations, ensuring a safe, organized, and welcoming environment for vendors, customers, volunteers, and community partners. The Market Manager works closely with the Executive Director and support staff to maintain operational excellence, ensure compliance with policies and regulations, and contribute to a high-quality and engaging market experience.

This position requires a highly organized, adaptable, and community-oriented individual who can effectively manage logistics, people, and financial processes in a dynamic outdoor environment.

Required Education, Licenses, Certifications, and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred

Minimum of two (2) years of experience in event coordination, operations, nonprofit work, community programming, or a related field preferred

Experience working with vendors, small businesses, or community stakeholders preferred

Must be willing to obtain a Food Manager’s License (at employer expense)

Valid Texas Drivers’ License

Valid Personal Auto Liability Insurance

Work authorization/security clearance required

Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in fast-paced and unpredictable environments

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written

Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills with the ability to de-escalate challenging situations professionally

Ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors, customers, volunteers, and community stakeholders

Basic financial and administrative skills, including cash handling, reporting, and recordkeeping

Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and digital tools such as Google Drive or similar platforms is preferred

Knowledge of local agriculture, food systems, or growing seasons preferred.

Experience working in diverse communities and commitment to inclusion and community engagement are preferred

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks as needed

Major Duties and Responsibilities Market Operations (Saturday)

Leads all Saturday market set-up, operations, and tear-down activities.

Implements site plans, including vendor placement, traffic flow, and safety protocols.

Supervises Assistant Market Manager, staff, volunteers, musicians, and contracted personnel.

Serves as the primary on-site decision-maker and problem solver during market operations.

Maintains a welcoming, inclusive, and professional market environment.

Oversees food access program distribution and on-site merchandise sales.

Ensures compliance with vendor rules, food safety standards, and applicable health regulations.

Conducts market walkthroughs to monitor vendor products, labeling, and food handling practices.

Addresses and documents incidents, including conflict resolution and operational issues.

Vendor Relations and Compliance

Serves as the primary point of contact for current and prospective vendors.

Reviews vendor applications and supports vendor selection and acceptance processes.

Communicates policies, expectations, and updates clearly and consistently to vendors.

Supports on-site and on-farm inspections in coordination with the Executive Director.

Financial and Reporting Responsibilities

Manages weekly vendor payments, reimbursements, booth fees, and cash handling processes.

Completes weekly transaction reports and reconciles market funds.

Submits financial documentation and reports to the Executive Director in a timely manner.

Maintains accurate records within shared systems and organizational platforms.

Administrative and Communication Duties

Develops and updates weekly site plans and vendor listings.

Responds to vendor, customer, and community inquiries in a timely and professional manner.

Prepares and distributes weekly vendor communications and customer newsletters.

Attends staff meetings and provides updates on market operations.

Participates in board, committee, and planning meetings as requested.

Community Engagement

Represents WDFM at…