Market-Ready Mason Program Manager

Market-Ready Mason Program Manager

Salary: $60,000 to $72,000 annually (depending on experience)

Location: Shelton, Washington (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-Time/Temporary - (Benefits Eligible)

Application Deadline: Open until filled (First review: April 12, 2026)

About the Opportunity

The Economic Development Council of Mason County (MasonEDC) is seeking a Market-Ready Mason Program Manager to lead implementation of the USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP)-funded Market-Ready Mason initiative.

This position plays a key role in strengthening Mason County’s local food system by supporting farmers, food producers, and market operators. The goal is to expand market opportunities, increase access to locally produced food, and build stronger regional food networks.

The Program Manager will lead training, technical assistance, and stakeholder engagement efforts while working closely with community partners, local producers, and regional organizations.

Job Responsibilities

Program Management:

• Manage implementation of the Market Ready Mason project in accordance with USDA FMPP grant requirements, timelines, and deliverables.
• Develop and manage project work plans, milestones, and reporting.
• Coordinate project partners and stakeholders to ensure successful implementation.
• Monitor program outcomes and collect data to evaluate project performance.
• Maintain project documentation and ensure compliance with USDA FMPP grant requirements.
• Prepare progress reports and assist with financial tracking and reporting.
• Coordinate evaluation metrics and data collection related to project outcomes.

Producer Support and Capacity Building:

• Organize and facilitate training workshops and technical assistance for farmers and food producers on topics such as market readiness, pricing, marketing, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Support producers in accessing farmers markets, direct-to-consumer sales opportunities, and institutional buyers.
• Provide individualized support to help producers expand their market participation.

Market Development and Outreach:

• Lead outreach strategies to increase participation in local farmers markets and expand consumer engagement.
• Work with partners to strengthen connections between producers, community organizations, and local institutions.
• Identify opportunities to increase market access and improve the viability of local markets.
• Support a feasibility study exploring new marketplace models.
• Collaborate with project partners including Mason Conservation District, WSU Extension, Washington Farm Bureau, Thurston Economic Development Council, and others.
• Work with the Mason Matters initiative and other community partners to strengthen local food access efforts.
• Facilitate meetings and communication among stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, community development, public administration, economic development, business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience managing projects, programs, or grants.
• Strong organizational, communication, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience coordinating events, workshops, or community outreach initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with farmers, food producers, or farmers markets.
• Knowledge of local food systems, agricultural marketing, or rural economic development.
• Experience with federal or state grant programs.
• Familiarity with Mason County or regional food system stakeholders.

Skills:

• Project and grant management.
• Stakeholder engagement and partnership development.
• Event planning and training coordination.
• Data collection and program evaluation.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite.

How to apply:

Please submit the following to Kevin@choosemason.com: 

• A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in this job announcement.
• A current resume.

Questions? Please contact Kevin Shutty at Kevin@choosemason.com.