Technical Support Assistant-WIC & Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

As a Technical Support Assistant at Agricultural Institute of Marin, your primary responsibilities will include assisting shoppers and farmers in utilizing the WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Programs. You'll be providing excellent customer service, troubleshooting tech issues with an app-based payment processor, and ensuring farmers can submit their authorization applications. You will also collect data on common questions and tech challenges while maintaining positive relationships with vendors and customers.

To apply for the Technical Support Assistant position at Agricultural Institute of Marin, you need to be at least 18 years old, and proficiency in Spanish or Chinese is highly preferred. Familiarity with smartphone applications and app-based payment processors is also a plus. Excellent communication skills and the ability to multi-task in a busy environment are essential qualifications for this role.

The Technical Support Assistant position at Agricultural Institute of Marin offers an expected hourly rate of $21. This part-time, temporary position requires availability primarily on Saturdays and Sundays, with the possibility of working on Thursdays during the farmers market season from May to September 2025.

The Technical Support Assistant role at Agricultural Institute of Marin is a part-time position with working hours primarily on weekends, specifically Saturdays and Sundays from 8 AM to 2 PM. The role may also extend to occasional hours on Thursdays as necessary during the height of the farmers market season.

The mission of the Agricultural Institute of Marin is to educate, inspire, and connect communities while supporting responsible farmers and producers for a healthier, Earth-friendly, and equitable local food system. AIM envisions a food and farming system that is environmentally beneficial, economically viable, and socially just, serving over 400 farmers and artisans across California.

When faced with a technical issue while assisting a farmer, my first step would be to stay calm and collected, assessing the issue at hand. I would communicate clearly with the farmer, walking them through the steps to troubleshoot if applicable. If the problem persists, I would ensure to document the issue for further support and offer to follow up with them after the market.

Providing excellent customer service means being attentive, approachable, and informative. I would greet every shopper and farmer warmly, actively listen to their needs, and ensure they feel valued. Additionally, I’d provide clear information on the WIC and Senior FMNP programs and assist with any inquiries, creating a friendly and supportive environment.

To effectively multitask in a busy environment, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. I keep a notepad handy to jot down immediate needs, segment my attention appropriately, and remain focused without getting overwhelmed. This method helps me ensure that each customer receives the attention they deserve while managing my responsibilities.

I stay updated on agricultural practices and food system issues by regularly reading industry publications, following relevant online platforms, and participating in local workshops or discussions. Engaging with experts and communities helps me stay informed and enables me to better support farmers and customers at the market.

The WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) serves to provide income-eligible families access to fresh fruits and vegetables at California Certified Farmers' Markets. It plays a crucial role in improving nutritional diets while supporting local farmers. Understanding this helps me assist both shoppers and farmers effectively.

I would patiently guide the shopper through the process, providing step-by-step instructions while ensuring they feel comfortable. I’d demonstrate the app functionalities on my device if necessary, and encourage them to ask questions. My goal would be to make their experience as smooth as possible.

I’m motivated by the impact that local food systems have on communities. Contributing to programs that promote health and equity resonates with my values. Working directly with farmers and families allows me to be part of a bigger change towards sustainable practices and improved access to fresh produce.

I would create a simple log during the farmers market to note down recurring questions or tech issues that arise. After each market day, I’d review this together with my team to identify patterns and develop solutions or improvements to enhance overall service delivery.

To maintain composure in busy environments, I focus on my breathing and stay organized with clear priorities. I also remind myself of the bigger picture and my role in helping customers. Staying positive and remembering that each person I assist contributes to a greater cause helps me keep calm.

The most exciting part of working with farmers and customers is the opportunity to engage with diverse individuals and contribute to their experiences. Hearing their stories and understanding their challenges in accessing fresh produce brings a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I’m part of fostering a stronger community through local food.