Seasonal Agribusiness Assistant

Description

Are you organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy working with people? The Florida State Fair Authority is seeking a Seasonal Agribusiness Assistant to support the planning and coordination of agricultural programs, educational activities, and special events at the Florida State Fair. This position plays an important role in keeping departmental operations running smoothly while supporting youth participants, exhibitors, volunteers, and the agricultural community. From coordinating program details and maintaining records to assisting with contests, events, and Fair activities, this is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys a varied role and being part of a team that brings agriculture and education to life.

SUMMARY

The Seasonal Agribusiness Assistant provides administrative, clerical, and operational support to the Agribusiness Director, Agribusiness Coordinator, and other department staff. This position assists with the planning, coordination, and execution of Agribusiness programs and activities leading up to and during the annual Fair. The position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, flexibility, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assist the Agribusiness Director and Coordinators with Fair programs, projects, and daily departmental operations.
2. Coordinate with the Agribusiness Director and Champion of Champions (CofC) Coordinator on Educational Showcase Field Trips.
3. Process and track admissions, tickets, payments, and other program-related transactions for the Agribusiness Department.
4. Support the Champion of Champions Coordinator with Champion Youth points, including reviewing, verifying, processing, maintaining records, and completing related program requirements.
5. Assist the CofC Coordinator with Record Books, including processing submissions upon arrival, tracking records, copying animal inventory pages for staff, and preparing books for judging.
6. Process all incoming and outgoing departmental mail.
7. Provide backup support for the Agribusiness Receptionist by answering phones, greeting visitors, responding to general inquiries, and directing questions to appropriate staff.
8. Assist the Agribusiness Director and Coordinators with the AG Mechanics, Barn Quilt, and Hay Bale Decorating contests.
9. Provide administrative support through correspondence, data entry, filing, document preparation, copying, scanning, and maintaining accurate departmental records.
10. Provide customer service and program information to exhibitors, youth participants, parents, educators, volunteers, and the general public.
11. Assist with the preparation and organization of departmental materials, supplies, signage, and displays before and during the Fair, including hanging educational posters.
12. Provide on-site administrative and operational support during the Fair, including assisting with program activities, answering questions, and supporting departmental staff.
13. Organize and coordinate the sale of Foundation T-shirts, including maintaining inventory, processing payments, and documenting transactions for accounting.
14. Serve as the primary departmental contact for the Volunteer Coordinator regarding Agribusiness volunteers, including barn help and other volunteer assignments.
15. Assist the Banquet Coordinator with meal functions and related activities.
16. Support event setup, execution, and breakdown activities before, during, and after the Fair.
17. Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling exhibitor information, financial records, and departmental documents.
18. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Schedule:

This position will start out at 20-25 hours per week and gradually increase as we get closer to the Fair.  Must be able to work all 12 days of the 2027 Florida State Fair, February 4th-February 15th, 2027.

The Florida State Fair Authority is a drug free workplace and an equal employment opportunity employer.  

Requirements

High school graduate or equivalent. Background in agriculture and accounting/bookkeeping. Some experience in 4-H or FFA a plus.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. 
• Ability to learn and effectively use event management, registration, and ticketing software systems. 
• Ability to learn software systems such as Paylocity, ShoWorks, Formster and Momentus 
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team. 
• Basic accounting, bookkeeping, and recordkeeping skills preferred. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately. 
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and operational needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during Fair preparation and operation. Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout Fairgrounds facilities for extended periods. Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds occasionally. Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments during varying weather conditions. Environmental elements include some exposure to wetness or humidity, work near mechanical parts, work in high places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, extreme temperatures (non-weather), risk of electrical shock, and risk of radiation.