Brief Description:

DURATION: 6 months

PROJECT BACKGROUND
The Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL) is a sustainable economic growth project which aims to increase the value of Caribbean fresh
produce accessing high-value markets (HVMs) in the Caribbean and internationally by CAD $100 million over six years. Funded by the Canadian Government through Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
and implemented by World University Service of Canada (WUSC), the project is working with private sector buyers, producers, business service providers and other market system actors to facilitate
the safe, effective and efficient movement of fresh produce from the farm level to HVMs.

VOLUNTEER POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Working with the PROPEL team in Jamaica and with the staff and faculty of the Northern Caribbean University, the Mushroom Production Advisor volunteer will contribute to the overall growth and development of Jamaican mushroom production. The volunteer will work with research institutions in the production of spawns and provide technical support to youth and women producers as required. The volunteer will liaise with various stakeholders (buyer, producers, extension service providers) in support of the mushroom production program.
The Mushroom Production Advisor will contribute to the following:
 Substrate preparation and sterilization in established labs;
 Inoculation of substrate for spawn production;
 Conduct site visits and inspection of grow houses;
 Provide technical support and assist with training of local mushroom producers;
 Assist youth and women with the harvesting and post-harvest handling of mushrooms;
 Produce monthly reports on the production of mushrooms for the WUSC Jamaica office.

QUALIFICATIONS
 Education and/or formal training in agriculture
 Expertise in mushroom production is an asset
 Experience in working with rural producers
 Ability to work with multiple stakeholders simultaneously
 Ability to translate technical concepts and jargon
 Experience with working with youth and women is an asset
 Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills
 Demonstrated ability to take initiative, be resourceful and work independently
 Proven high degree of flexibility and commitment
 Good attention to detail

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
 Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada between the age of 18-70.
 Departure date is contingent upon the timely completion of all administrative requirements (e.g. visa processes, medical clearance, police checks, travel documentation).
 With the support of the program, all volunteers are encouraged to make a minimum financial contribution of $1,500 for participating in the program.

TO APPLY
Send CV and cover letter to: jobs@wusc.ca. Include “PROPEL Mushroom Production Specialist” in subject header.
 This position is open only to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
 Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and position will remain open until filled.

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