The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the primary voice for people who use cooperative businesses to build a better world and a more inclusive economy. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For over 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 85 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 in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking 2 (1- remote US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Ecuador) qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates for the position of Integrated Pest Management Specialist to support Asociación de Exportadores de Plátano del Ecuador - ASOEXPLA based in Manabí, Ecuador.

ASOCIACION EXPORTADORES DE PLATANO - ASOEXPLA, is a non-profit organization, established in 2015. It was created to represent the plantain export sector of Ecuador, in order to pursue the common good of the associates. It represents 80% of the sector nationwide and the largest plantain production is concentrated in the Canton El Carmen, located northeast of the Province of Manabí.

The association members have several problems in terms of crop management and implementation of agricultural practices including Integrated Pest Management. They would like to improve their production and enhance their current practices using environmentally and socially responsible methods. Common pest and diseases are Moko bacterium (Ralstonia Solanacearum, Race II that attacks the vascular system of plantain and banana plants,) and Black Sigatoka (caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella fijiensis).

Duration: 2 weeks January- April 2022

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Analyze the association's current techniques and methods for pest and disease management and provide constructive feedback about improvement opportunities.
• Develop comprehensive training on integrated crop management and its importance for plantain production 
• Teach participants how to create a simple but effective management plan for integrated crop management in plantain production.
• Develop a brief manual (heavy graphics) along with ASOEXPLA members that can be later distributed to farmers.

• Degree in Agriculture, Entymology, Phytosanitary Management, and/or a related field. 
• Experience in integrated crop management and plantain production
• Demonstrated history working with agricultural producers to develop and execute integrated pest management plans
• 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.