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 1 qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidate based in Peru for the position of Biological Pest Control Specialist to support Asociacion de Servicios ASPROVAC, based in Cabana, Peru. The volunteer will collaborate with the US based volunteer to develop a pest management plan and provide training on how to manage  pests in a manner that is conducive with ASPROVAC's organic certification.

Asociacion de Servicios ASPROVAC is a farmers’ association located in the Puno region of Peru.  The producers grow quinoa and potatoes which are pooled to sell in large markets.  The producers have noted that the quinoa fields are affected by plagues such as kona kona (insect), Eurysacca quinoae, Eurysacca melanocampta and Eurysacca media, also noctubidae Copitarsia incommoda, Copitarsia decolora and Agrotis ípsilon.  The most prevalent and harmful to the quinoa crop is Mildiu Perenospora variabilis.  The presence of pests has also intensified in potatoes, a rotation crop. The main pest is the Andean weevil which is controlled using chemicals (analysis may show presence of cypermethrin) later affecting quinoa.

Duration: 2 weeks, December- January 2021     

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Train the participants on how to observe the field for insects and diseases aiming to identify the first signs of their presence.
• Training on how to minimize the impact of plagues and diseases on crops (potato and quinoa) by using cost efficient methods or products compatible with organic production.
• Training on how to prevent the attack of plagues and diseases by using improved farming techniques.
• A brief manual for biological pest control to be referred by farmers and technicians.

• Advanced degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Entomology.
• Experience in biological pest management
• Knowledge and experience in organic production
• Knowledge of crops; quinoa and potatoes is desired.
• 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.