For over 50 years and in 146 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that delivers technical and management assistance in agribusiness, financial services, enterprise development, community development and food security in order to promote broad-based economic growth and vibrant civil society. ACDI/VOCA currently has approximately 34 projects in 26 countries and revenues of approximately $174 million.
Food Processing and Technology Specialist, Malawi
We are currently seeking a Food Processing and Technology Specialist for an upcoming USDA-funded multi-year program in Malawi. The project aims to catalyze Malawi’s SME agro-processing sector for value addition and increased trade in key value chains, including groundnuts, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and sweet potatoes. The position is contingent upon ACDI/VOCA being awarded the program.
Responsibilities:
- Identify the current capacity and constraints for Malawian food processors and advise the project on methods to overcome them, including access to finance, availability of equipment, etc.
- Oversee training of project-affiliated agricultural SMEs in the management of storage facilities, including usage, accounting for product deposit and withdrawal, maintenance of facilities, etc.
- Identify, involve and catalyze stakeholders (farmers, banks, insurers, warehouse managers and traders) for value chain upgrading strategies. Work to engage private sector investment in post-harvest handling techniques, equipment and storage facilities.
- Provide expertise and training on post-harvest processing approaches, systems, procedures and processes.
- Advise processors and retailers on necessary quality enhancement services, appropriate technologies and logistics; review current and anticipated customer lists; assess relationships and agreements with suppliers; identify other existing or potential issues and provide recommendations to mitigate problem areas.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering, agricultural processing, business, or related field is required. Master’s degree strongly preferred.
- Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in post-harvest handling, agricultural processing, infrastructure management, and storage engineering.
- Experience with post-harvest processing development programs, focusing on addressing systemic constraints to growth and competitiveness.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate, willingness to innovate and ability to think systematically.
- Strong communications skills (oral, written, cross-cultural).
- Fluency in English is required.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please apply online at http://acdivoca.bosmaxhire.net/cp/?E55564361D43515B7E59192F7757176902627... phone calls please. Only finalists contacted. Women and minorities encouraged to apply. EOE.
