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 Cacao Post-Harvest Expert to support Cooperative Agroindustrial Tocache Ltd (CAT) based in Tocache, Peru. Founded in 1990 with 127 members Cooperative Agroindustrial Tocache Ltd (CAT) now has over 300 members who grow and sell cacao for national and international markets. Their introduction to international markets has increased their awareness of sustainable farming and well-established post-harvest processes. They are updating the harvest and post-harvest protocols to increase the quality of cacao beans and reduce contamination risks.  The Cacao Post-Harvest Experts are expected to provide guidance to help the cooperative improve their drying and fermentation process.

Duration: 2 weeks, May-August or September- November 20202 (Due to the global impact of COVID-19, Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer assignments are tentatively scheduled to restart summer 2020)

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• The volunteer will observe and assess the current procedures for drying and fermenting of cacao beans in attempt to improve methods
• Train personnel on innovative post-harvest handling practices of cacao; processes, sanitation standards, drying and fermentation practices
• Assist CAT with the development of improved post-harvest manuals and protocols, which are currently underway
• Propose a fermentation formula for CAT to improve their cacao beans' quality.  

• A degree in botany, agronomy and/or a related field
• Professional with significant agriculture operation experience preferably in cacao processing.
• Knowledge of cacao industry quality standards, chemical and physiological changes of fermented and dried cacao beans
• Experience with group facilitation and adult training. 
• Available for virtual communications with 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.