Farmer-to-Farmer Plague Management Trainer

  • Contract

Company Description

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.

Job Description

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidate position of Plague Mangament for Organic Production Trainer to support Asociación de productores cacaoteros y cafetaleros del Valle del Monzón (APROCAF) based in Huánuco, Peru.

The Cacao and Coffee Producers Association from Monzon Valley (APROCAF) was established in 2019 to empower its members to be more competitive, apply organic practices, and sell their coffee at a fair price

APROCAF members want to learn and improve their plague management practices. Members have lost between 15 to 20% of their production because of plagues.  APROCAF members know how to use poison to counter plagues, but poison leaves trace and go against their organic certification. They would like to maintain their production without the use of any chemical products and seek a trainer to build member capacity on products they may use to prevent or control plagues for organic production.

Duration:        2-3 weeks August - December 2022 

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

  • Train the participants on how to minimize the impact of plagues and diseases on crops 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 by using improved farming techniques, plant nutritious among others
  • Collaborate with APROCAF to develop plague management best practices plan, guides and/or demonstrative plots. 

Qualifications

  • Advanced degree in Agriculture, Environmental sciences, Entomology.  
  • Experience in biological pest management  
  • Knowledge and experience in organic production  
  • Knowledge of coffee crops.  
  • Excellent communication skills and with the ability to transmit his/her knowledge in a non-technical language.  
  • 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.

Additional Information

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.