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’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.   Compensation in the form of lodging, transportation, per diem, is provided by NCBA CLUSA.  No salary/consultant fees are paid. For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates  (either 1- US volunteer willing to travel or 2 volunteers for a hybrid assignment- 1 remote US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Honduras) for the position Liquid Organic Fertilizer Expert to support Cooperativa Cafetalera Mercedes Ocotepeque Limitada (COCAMOL)  based in Mercedes, Honduras.

COCAMOL produces liquid organic fertilizers which uses wastewater from coffee pulping.  They produce around 1,575,000 liters of liquid fertilizer during the harvest season that lasts between 4 - 5 months (about 10,500 liters per day).  The organization seeks advice on monitoring the production of liquid fertilizer and establishing methods to ensure a quality product is produced. COCAMOL would like to be advised on physicochemical or microbial analysis of fertilizers, procedures for inspection and assistance in developing a maintenance plan for their biodigester. They’re also seeking training on how to correctly handle and apply fertilizer to their lands.  They believe that this along with lack of knowledge regarding liquid fertilizers has been a barrier preventing more farmers from adopting usage. 

Duration: 2-3 weeks August-December 2022 

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY: 

• Carry out an assessment on the process of liquid organic fertilizers done by the host organization.  
• Teach the organization about the functioning of the biodigester to make liquid fertilizers.  
• Work together with employees to develop a manual or protocol with process flowcharts, description of the process, and quality parameters for organic liquid fertilizer production   
• Teach the host organization the proper packaging and storage techniques for the organic liquid fertilizers.  
• Teach members about the importance of liquid organic fertilizers and how to handle and apply them in their farms (if time permits) 

• Degree in agronomy, environmental engineering, and/or a similar field   
• Experience  making and applying foliar organic fertilizers    
• Experience and expertise in the use of biodigesters   
• Capable of transferring knowledge to people  
• Work experience with farmers   
• Knowledge in coffee production is preferred but not mandatory   
• Experience in wastewater treatment, 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.