Post-Harvesting Expert - Vanilla specialist

Position: Post-Harvesting Vanilla Expert (Ugandan National)
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).