Expat STTA for Cold Storage, Freezing Berries and Vegetables, Kyrgyzstan

ACDI/VOCA is a global development design and delivery partner that has implemented effective economic and social development projects in nearly 150 countries since 1963. We empower people to make positive changes in their lives by applying our expertise in sustainable agriculture, resilience, economic opportunity, access to finance, and equity & inclusion to create meaningful, lasting impact. ACDI/VOCA and its affiliates design and implement donor-funded projects, facilitate impact investing, deliver financial services, and partner with businesses to promote inclusive practices and build sustainable supply chains. In 2024, ACDI/VOCA was named a Top Workplace by the Washington Post and as well as 2024 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence recognition for its innovation, work-life flexibility, compensation & benefits, leadership, and purpose & values.

Expat STTA for Cold Storage, Freezing Berries and Vegetables, Kyrgyzstan

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Cold Storage, Freezing Berries and Vegetables Consultant for the Kyrgyz Agro Trade Activity in Kyrgyzstan funded by USAID. The Activity aims to promote job creation and increase incomes of Kyrgyz farmers and agribusinesses by strengthening value chains, improving regional and cross-border trade, particularly with the Fergana Valley, and improving the business-enabling environment.
The anticipated timeframe for this assignment is September 30 to November 10, 2024 with up to 30 days of effort. The primary locations for this assignment are Osh and Jalal-Abad & Batken oblasts, Kyrgyz Republic.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The objective of the STTA will be to provide targeted guidance and expert recommendations on the latest best practices and technologies for freezing berries, fruits, and vegetables, with the goal of enhancing the operational efficiency and performance of cold storage facilities.

• Conduct assessment of the current cold storage facilities and freezing operations of selected companies. Evaluate the functionality, and performance of freezing equipment, including any maintenance issues.
• Analyze the raw material intake process and the initial quality control measures used before freezing.
• Recommend modern and effective freezing technologies tailored to the specific products (berries, fruits, vegetables) handled by each company.
• Advise on best practices for optimizing freezing processes, such as pre-treatment, freezing speed, and storage temperature optimization.
• Recommend ideal storage temperatures for various types of produce to ensure optimal preservation of quality, taste, and nutritional content.
• Develop guidelines for the proper maintenance of freezing equipment and offer troubleshooting techniques to resolve common issues.
• Establish quality control measures for raw materials before freezing, focusing on ensuring optimal freshness, cleanliness, and suitability for freezing.
• Develop procedures for post-freeze quality checks, ensuring that products maintain their integrity throughout the freezing and storage process.
• Design and deliver a comprehensive training program for staff at selected companies on freezing technologies, equipment maintenance, and quality control measures.
• Develop training materials, guides, and manuals that focus on practical knowledge and skills needed for the efficient operation of cold storage facilities.
• Offer hands-on support during the implementation of best practices in freezing and cold storage operations.
• Be available for remote consultation to troubleshoot issues during the early stages of adopting new practices.
• Conduct follow-up evaluations to assess improvements in the companies’ cold storage and freezing operations.
• Prepare and submit a detailed technical report summarizing all activities, findings, and recommendations for each company, including suggested follow-up actions or investments (if necessary) to further improve freezing and storage operations.
• Conduct exit presentation on the assignment.

DELIVERABLES

The consultant will conduct country site visits to each selected ATA grantee to gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges they face. Cold Storage and Equipment Assessment Report for each company.

• Freezing Technology and Best Practices Recommendations.
• Quality Control Procedures for Raw Materials and Frozen Products.
• Training Program and Materials (guides, manuals, presentation slides).
• Technical Assistance Logs and Documentation.
• Final Technical Report with comprehensive findings and recommendations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD or equivalent experience in food science, agriculture, or related field.
• Proven expertise in freezing technologies for berries, fruit and vegetables.
• Experience working with food processing and preservation.
• Consultancy experience and experience working with development projects is preferred.
• Experience in delivering technical assistance in freezing technologies to small and medium-sized companies.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, proficiency in preparing periodic technical reports.

TERMS OF APPLICATION

Interested consultants should apply via email to mperez@acdivoca.org by 09.25.2024. Please include the following items:

1.     Cover Letter outlining the consultant's interest in the assignment, understanding of the assignment’s objectives, and key qualifications as well as consultant’s daily rate and availability to travel to Kyrgyzstan for site visits and remote support.

2.     CV highlighting at least 3 years of relevant experience, qualifications, and expertise in cold storage, freezing technologies, and operational efficiency improvements.

3.     References with the list of previous clients or projects relevant to the scope of the assignment, along with contact information.

Any questions should be sent via email to mperez@acdivoca.org by 09.20.2024. The applications will be reviewed promptly upon receipt, only finalists will be contacted. ACDI/VOCA is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities and people from diverse groups are encouraged to apply. ACDI/VOCA will never request payment or charge a fee to apply for any position.