The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the trade association for cooperative businesses in the United States and an international development organization. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For nearly 100 years, NCBA CLUSA has sought to advance and protect cooperative enterprises, highlighting the impact that cooperatives have in bettering the lives of individuals and families. In the last 60 years, NCBA CLUSA has worked in over 100 countries in the areas of food security, agricultural development, strengthening of communities and farmer organizations, community-based health, natural resources management, and empowerment of smallholder farmers, women, and youth. We currently work in 21 countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA’s USAID-funded Farmer-to-Farmer program sends American farmers and agribusiness professionals on 2-4 week agricultural development assignments, promoting sustainable growth and agricultural development worldwide.  Volunteer technical assistance from U.S. farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives and universities helps smallholder farmers in developing countries improve productivity, access new markets and conserve environmental and natural resources.  For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking a qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidate for the position of Jewelry Designer to support Union de Joyeros Chordeleg, based in Chordeleg, Ecuador. The Jewelry Designer provides technical assistance to this cooperative that is focused on setting themselves apart from the competition in a saturated market.  They boast a beautiful catalog of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, ornaments and crowns, handmade using silver and natural stones.  Union de Joyeros Chordeleg needs someone who will help them develop a design process that will encourage creation of unique pieces whether for custom orders or bulk orders that will be sold in regional markets.

Duration: 2 weeks, June- July (Due to the global impact of COVID-19, Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer assignments are tentatively scheduled to restart summer 2020)

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Create new and original designs with cooperative members
• Develop a design guide that will encourage artistic expression while meeting customer requests
• Establish a design team for the cooperative, which will cover; procedures, manufacturing, finishing’s, etc

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in Art and Design or a related field
• Possess creativity, detail-oriented, have vast experience working with precious metals (silver and gold) and/or precious stones such as zircon
• Experience using 3D design computer programs such as RhinoGold is a plus
• Ability to work precisely with tools and machines.
• Experience working with wax carving and casting for creating wax models and molds.
• Have knowledge in colorimetry, graphic design, technical drawing or painting of jewels, and quality management of precious metals.
• Business skills such as sales, customer service, fashion trends and marketing are desirable but not required
• Candidate must be legally able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Advanced Spanish is a plus (However a translator will be available if needed)

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

NCBA CLUSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity.  All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, and legally protected characteristics for non-merit factors.