Farmer-to-Farmer Compost and Biols Production 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’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 candidate for the position of Compost and Biols Production Trainer to support   Red de Desarrollo Sostenible de Productores Agropecuarios Organero Gera based in San Martin, Peru.  
 

RED de Desarrollo Sostenible de Productores Agropecuarios Organero Gera - "RED ORGANERO GERA" is an association of small coffee producers, dedicated to the production and commercialization of specialty coffees. In 2017, 11 leading producers, from 4 communities met and decided to form an association to make a common force, with the aim of improving their income levels and living conditions by getting access to the coffee market. 

Red Organero GERA’s associates have experienced low productivity due to soil health, pest and disease control, plantation age and agricultural management practices.   The cooperative seeks training in active composting and biol production to improve productivity and increase farmers´ income.  Red Organero GERA’s associates wish to learn how to identify suitable feedstock for compost production, ingredients for biol production and how to monitor active composting and anaerobic processes.

Duration:        2 weeks Feb 2022 – April 2022 

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

  • Teach participants the key concepts for active composting and biol production.
  • Work with participants on practical sessions of compost and biol production. 
  • Recommend correct compost and biol applications on the coffee fields. 
  • Provide insight into monitoring of the compost and biol processes to get good quality results. 
  • Assist the HO in designing a calendar/plan for compost and biol application. 

Qualifications

  • Degree in agricultural engineering or soil conservation engineering. 
  • Experience in compost and biol production. 
  • Experience in facilitating training sessions and strong communication skills. 
  • Knowledge of the coffee 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.

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.