Position: Post-Harvesting Vanilla Expert
Location: Kampala - Uganda with frequent field missions in Iganga, Jinja and Mukono
Contract Type: Fixed-term, full-time
Duration: 1 year with possibility of renewal
Reports to: Project Manager / Project Coordinator
1. About the Project
This position is part of a project funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), AID Code: 013244/10/5, aimed at supporting sustainable agricultural development in Uganda. The project focuses on enhancing the productivity and sustainability of vanilla cultivation among smallholder farmers.
2. Position Overview
The Post-Harvesting Vanilla Expert will lead technical support for post-harvest handling, curing, storage, and quality improvement of vanilla, working directly with growers and local cooperatives.
3. Key Responsibilities
- Advise and train growers on proper harvesting, curing, storage, and processing.
- Implement quality control protocols and grading procedures.
- Support infrastructure planning for post-harvest facilities.
- Conduct workshops, field demonstrations, and capacity-building sessions.
- Monitor post-harvest operations and provide technical reports and recommendations.
- Capacity building and training of vanilla growers.
4. Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Agronomy, Agriculture, Food Science, or related field.
- At least 5 years of experience in post-harvest processing of vanilla or similar crops.
- Experience in the non-profit / development sector.
- Fluency in English; local language knowledge an advantage.
- Knowledge of sustainable post-harvest practices and value chain development.
5. Skills and Competencies
- Excellent technical expertise in post-harvest handling and quality control.
- Strong communication and training skills.
- Analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team.
- Commitment to gender equality, environmental sustainability, and safeguarding (PSEAH).