Student Internship - Paid position
Website: CheeseTrail.org
GENERAL OVERVIEW:
The California Cheese Trail is a vibrant initiative dedicated to promoting California’s rich and diverse cheesemaking industry while supporting the local agricultural community. In addition to showcasing cheesemakers and their exceptional products, the Cheese Trail also fosters connections within the broader cheese community, including cheese shops, wineries, restaurants, and other local businesses that play a vital role in enhancing agritourism and supporting regional economies.
As an intern, you will play an integral role in this mission by gathering and organizing information about California cheeses, cheesemakers, and related businesses. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to the project’s online presence through content creation and event promotion, depending on your skill set.
Under the mentorship of Vivien and Michael Straus, the owners and directors of Cheese Trail, you will gain hands-on experience in agricultural marketing, research, and outreach, all while helping to strengthen the visibility and success of California cheesemakers and the local food ecosystem. This paid internship offers flexibility and the chance to learn from industry leaders while making a meaningful impact on the community. Your contributions will help enhance the visibility of California's cheese industry and support the livelihoods of local farmers and artisans.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & RESULTS AREAS:
1. Learn & Understand
Actively learns the focus, scope, and objectives of the Cheese Trail project.
The Cheese Trail's primary aim is to promote California cheesemakers while supporting and strengthening the local agricultural community.
2. Research & Outreach
Proactively researches cheesemakers and reaches out to designated marketing contacts to collect and verify detailed information about cheeses.
Accurately reports findings in shared spreadsheets, maintaining organized and up-to-date records.
3. Communication & Professionalism
Presents a warm and professional demeanor when communicating with cheesemakers and other external partners.
Maintains consistent and proactive communication with Vivien and Michael, with check-ins via email or phone at least once per week.
Questions and a willingness to seek direction are encouraged to ensure clarity and progress.
4. Event & Tour Research
Gathers and organizes details on upcoming cheesemaker and dairy tours, including dates, times, descriptions, and instructions for joining.
Compiles information about cheese shop events and cheesemaking classes to feature on the website.
5. Content Creation & Additional Tasks
Depending on the intern’s skills and interests, other responsibilities may include:
o Creating engaging social media content to promote the Cheese Trail and its events.
o Writing blog posts or articles to spotlight cheesemakers or highlight Cheese Trail activities.
o Contributing to marketing strategies to increase visibility and engagement.
REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:
· Must be an enrolled student
· Strong research and organizational skills.
· Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
· Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
· Familiarity with social media platforms and tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or WordPress is beneficial.
· An interest in California agriculture, local food systems, or marketing is highly valued.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & HOURS:
· This internship is remote.
· Flexible working hours, with an estimated commitment of 5-15 hours per week.
· Occasional participation in in-person events may be requested (if applicable).
· Paid position: $20-$25 / hour, independent contractor.
· Internship duration: January to June 2025, with the possibility of extension.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:
· Gain firsthand experience in marketing and networking within the food and agriculture industry.
· Learn how agritourism supports local economies and fosters sustainable practices.
· Build relationships with industry leaders, local business owners, and cheesemakers.
· Interns may receive invitations to cheese festivals or exclusive tasting events.
Contact Information:
Vivien Straus
Phone: (213) 304-7371
Email: info@cheesetrail.org
Application Deadline:
December 10, 2024 (or until filled)
