ACDI/VOCA seeks a specialist in Onion Disease and Pest Management for a Volunteer Assignment in Georgia. The selected Volunteer will collaborate with the host to provide training on identification, biology and etiology of onion diseases found. A 2024 soil test identified the fungal Stemphilium vesicarium and Fusarium sp. as production problems.

***As part of the Farmer-to-Farmer Consortium, this assignment is made possible through USAID funding. In accordance to USAID guidelines, any candidates submitted for consideration under this project must have a valid US passport or Green Card.***

This is a 2-week assignment, scheduled for Spring/Early Summer 2025. 

Provisions for the Volunteer:

• All international and local travel
• All lodging
• A per diem to cover meals and incidentals
• Travel Visa (if applicable)
• Travel Emergency Medical Insurance
• In-country support from field office staff
• Local cell phone to use during assignment (if needed)

The selected Volunteer will provide training on the identification and biology of diseases, insects and weeds. Training should also include a variety choice, irrigation, fertilization, harvest practices, and production economics. The Volunteer should also discuss strategies to increase productivity and profitability.

While in-country, the Volunteer will:

• Perform site investigation and data collection to assess challenges and risks associated with actual onion production and operation
• Provide information on disease resistant varieties and their properties
• Specifically discuss the biology of the fungal diseases Stemphilium vesicarium and Fusarium sp. as production problems
• Develop production guidelines specifically for the region
• Provide a list of approved products for use in onion production including herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides, their application rates, timing, frequency, and rotation of active ingredients

• University degree in Horticulture, Agricutlure, or a related field
• At least 5 years relevant work experience
• Practical experience growing onions
• Excellent cross-cultural communication and interpersonal skills
• Previous international experience a plus
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Teams, Word, PowerPoint, Excel and apps like Zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook Etc.