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 a qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidate (1- US volunteer willing to travel) for the position of Cacao By-Product Developer to support  Cooperativa Agrícola Cafetalera San Antonio Limitada- COAGRICSAL  based in Nueva Arcadia, Honduras.

Job Description:  COAGRICSAL is a cooperative of small producers who grow coffee, cocoa, and allspice.  They are currently processing 200 tons of cocoa beans per year which arrive at their processing facilities in pods, and they transform them to the different products; cacao seeds, liquor, nibs, butter and powder; chocolate bars, etc.  Between recollecting and final production, 10% to 20% of the pod is decomposed to create fertilizer. This is raw material that can be turned into a value added by product that generates income for the organization.  COAGRICSAL would like to receive technical assistance from a knowledgeable volunteer who can help them determine which value-added by-products are right for their operations.

Duration: 2 weeks, March-June 2022    

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Conduct an assessment and provide recommendations for current waste management procedures
• Provide options for creating economically viable by-products from cocoa waste. Examples include, but are not limited to pectin or flours, essential oils, industrial or cosmetic compounds or final products
• Collaborate with participants to create a plan for developing the selected by-product(s). 
• Train participants on procedures for creating byproducts.

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemical or Industrial engineering, or a related field
• Experience developing and working with cacao by-products
• Knowledge of cacao components
• Knowledge in chemical processes for transforming raw matter
• 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.