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 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.  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 Ecuador) for the position of Biological Pest Control Expert to support Asociación de Trabajadores Agrícolas “Luis Vargas Torres” based in Naranjito, Ecuador

Asociación de Trabajadores Agrícolas Luis Vargas Torres was established in 2005, by a small group of cacao growers. The organization was created to help producers gain access to broader markets, and negotiate fair prices for their products.  Throughout the years, the association has engaged members in the cacao paste production process. There are currently 24 active members (75% men and 25% women, including one male youth) and more than 200 cacao suppliers.

The producers of the association have serious challenges dealing cacao diseases. One of their main goals is to be productive and ecologically sustainable. That is why they need training in how to capture, cultivate and manage beneficial microorganisms to control pests and avoid the use of chemical commercial products. Inoculation of beneficial microorganisms is a potential solution used in other places. The association members want to learn how to inoculate, produce and apply beneficial microorganisms for biological control. Furthermore, the production of these microorganisms can be an additional way of income for the association and promote environmentally friendly agriculture in Naranjito.

Duration: 2 weeks January – June 2023

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:
Train the participants on how to minimize the impact of plagues and diseases in cacao production using cost efficient methods and/or products compatible with organic production.  
Train the participants on how to observe the field for insects and diseases, how to prevent the attack of plagues and diseases, and the process of inoculation for biological disease control 
Collaborate with Luis Vargas Torres to develop plague management best practices plan, guides and/or demonstrative plots.  

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:
Degree in agriculture or environmental engineering. 
Experience in organic cacao pest and disease control. 
Knowledge of pruning, weeding and best agricultural practices. 
Past work with knowledge facilitation or the train-the-trainer approach is valuable. 
Background working with associations in agriculture is a plus. 
Experience in Latin America is also desirable. 
Fluency in Spanish is highly desirable but not mandatory. 
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.