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- remote US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Peru) qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates for the position of Agronomist to support Cooperativa Monte Azul Ltda, based in San Martin, Peru.

Monte Azul was founded in 2015 by 20 small-scale farmers to unite efforts to tackle production and commercialization issues due to limited market access. Currently, Monte Azul has 278 members located throughout 18 communities. The members produce coffee and cacao using sustainable agronomic practices. Most producers are certified organic and Fair Trade. The group is also dedicated to increased female participation, with their current president and around half of the co-op being women.

Monte Azul wants to improve its coffee and cacao yields. Currently, Monte Azul’s members use fertilizer for their cacao and coffee production, but these applications are not based on soil analysis. In the past, field technicians have provided general recommendations, but Monte Azul wants to have the knowledge to take soil samples and interpret the soil analysis to apply the appropriate fertilizers and amount. Past approaches have led to over and under fertilization of soil as fertilizers fail to meet farmers’ needs.

Duration: 2 Weeks (October – December 2021)

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• The volunteer will train the participants on soil sampling on the field. 
• The volunteer will work along with the participants on soil characterization (texture, color, etc.) during field visits.  
• The volunteer will conduct workshops about the interpretation of soil analysis and dose estimation according to the analysis results.   

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in soil conservation, agronomy, or agricultural engineering. 
• Experience in soil interpretation, soil laboratory analysis and fertilizer dosage. 
• Experience in facilitating training sessions and strong communication skills. 
• Knowledge in coffee and cocoa value chain is desirable. 
• 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 your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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.