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.  During COVID-19 we have shifted to a hybrid volunteer model that affords US volunteers and in-country volunteers the opportunity to continue to provide technical assistance.   For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking 2 (1- US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Peru) qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates for the position of Integrated Pest Management Expert to support Cooperativa Agraria Cacaotera ACOPAGRO based in San Martin, Peru. The volunteers will help this cooperative to identify biological control measures they can use in their integrated pest management strategy to combat Mazorquero (Carmenta sp) and the Monilia (Moniliophthora roreri).  Over the last few years, cacao producers have cited this pest and fungus as the primary cause for the decrease in production yields; 1,400kg of dried cacao to 1,000kg per hectare.

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

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Conduct a biological control assessment to determine the best possible microorganisms to combat the threat of pests and disease, including; Mazorquero (Carmenta sp) and the Monilia (Moniliophthora roreri)
• Train participants on effective biological control for organic cacao production.
• Develop 3 pilot farms for members to replicate methods on their own plots
• Provide recommendations for improving fertilization that will be aligned with the pest management activities

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

•  A degree in entomology, agronomy, environmental engineering and/or a related field
• Experience with IPM biological control in tropical climates
• Knowledge of cacao production and composting, including chemical and physical properties of soils in cacao plantations is preferred, but not required.
• Available for virtual communication with the Host Organization, Staff, and Co-volunteer
• US candidate must be legally able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Advanced English language skills;reading, writing, speaking

All application materials must be submitted in English.

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.