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 (1- US volunteer willing to travel) for the position of Chocolatier to support Asociación de Producción Agropecuaria Cargo- ASOPROCARGO”  based in (Milagro, Ecuador)

Job Description: Asociación de Producción Agropecuaria Cargo "ASOPROCARGO" is an agricultural association that applies agroecological practices in cacao production and has agrotourism farms.  They have invested in equipment for cacao processing; electric grinder, freezer, chocolate refiner, chocolate molds, and labels for packages. Currently, they make cacao paste, a 40% chocolate bar, and bonbons. However, they are trying to make other kinds products, like white chocolate, other formulations and varieties of bonbons.  They would like to improve the quality of their products after receiving feedback that  their refining and formulations needed adjustments.  They are looking to improve the techniques of refining, tempering, chocolate formulations, and storage.

Duration: 2 weeks February- April 2022 or June- September 2022

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Analyze the current cacao paste-making process and provide recommendations on quality improvements. This is not limited to fermentation, drying, roasting, and grinding.
• Conduct training on how to improve the cacao paste process taking into account best post-harvest handling procedures.
• The volunteer will share knowledge to improve cacao paste, procedures, refining, tempering, chocolate formulation, storage, and other topics that the volunteer considers relevant

• Degree in Food Science or a related field
• Exceptional knowledge of cacao production, sensory analysis, cacao fermentation
• Background in the cacao value chain is a plus
• Experience in chocolate manufacturing and formulation.
• 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.