SUSTA Trade Intern

This internship is funded by the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) and under the direction of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). This position works exclusively on SUSTA-funded activities and is responsible for supporting the state’s international trade strategies related to agriculture, food, and beverages. SUSTA programs support trade between small to medium-sized southern U.S. companies and overseas importers.

The SUSTA intern in Texas will work with TDA to coordinate international trade activities in support of SUSTA’s overall mission. This role is focused solely on SUSTA-related initiatives, including outreach, research, and trade facilitation activities. Key responsibilities include:

• Recruit Texas-based agriculture, food, and beverage companies to participate in SUSTA programs including Global Events (Trade Missions, Trade Shows), and the 50%CostShare.
• Building and maintaining relationships with participating companies. 
• Supporting SUSTA’s export promotion initiatives by:
  • Conducting research on global agricultural markets;
• Analyzing country and product-level on international trade data and opportunities; 
• Compiling summary reports on trade data and market trends; and
• Investigating trade barriers and opportunities in foreign markets.
• Maintain organized records and assist with data entry.
• Respond to emails and assist stakeholders involved in SUSTA activities.

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Current undergraduate or graduate student with a focus in marketing or business; agricultural background preferred but not required.  
• Strong administrative and communication (written and verbal) skills.
• Ability to successfully adapt to change and deliver quality results in a timely manner. 
• Ability to work in a setting requiring self-motivation/cooperative decision-making.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people. 
• Proficient with MS Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Location: The intern will work in-office at TDA’s headquarters in Austin, TX and utilize TDA issued equipment including a computer and phone.

Timing: Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The internship would begin as soon as administratively possible. Duration is negotiable, but generally last through the end of semester (Summer, Fall, or Spring). If mutually agreed, the internship may be extended. 

Hours and Compensation: This position may work up to a maximum of 30 hours per week.

About SUSTA: SUSTA is a non-profit organization helping small companies in the Southern U.S. promote value-added food and agricultural products to foreign markets. SUSTA funding is provided by the USDA’s Market Access Program, Member States, and private companies. www.SUSTA.org 

About TDA: The Texas Department of Agriculture’s mission is to partner with all Texans to make Texas the nation's leader in agriculture, fortify our economy, empower rural communities, promote healthy lifestyles, and cultivate winning strategies for rural, suburban and urban Texas through exceptional service and the common threads of agriculture in our daily lives. www.TexasAgriculture.gov. 

Resume Submission Email: GoGlobal@TexasAgriculture.Gov