TYPE OF ASSIGNMENT: Volunteer Cooperant (VC/OS) Unaccompanied assignment - This assignment does not include support for accompanying partners or dependants PARTNER: Flor de Leche LOCATION: BOLIVIA , La Paz DURATION: Flexible duration EXPECTED DEPARTURE DATE: Departure date is contingent upon completion of administrative file and approval of visa. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and position will remain open until filled. APPLICATION DEADLINE: APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 30, 2016 OVERVIEW: Uniterra is a leading Canadian international volunteer cooperation and development program, jointly implemented by the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI) and World University Service of Canada (WUSC). Uniterra contributes to improving the socio-economic conditions of poor and marginalized communities in 14 countries and with over 200 partners in Africa, Asia and the Americas through the exchange of expertise and knowledge of Canadian and international volunteers. Uniterra believes that economic growth, when inclusive, is the most powerful driver of poverty reduction. The purpose of the Uniterra program is to improve the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable populations by stimulating growth and facilitating access to the benefits of growing and diversified markets. To make this happen, we are working with our local partners to enhance the income of poor and marginalized women and youth through better access to employment and income generation opportunities. Uniterra country program staff work with our local partners to design Uniterra assignments in the context of the country strategy, supporting the inclusion of women and youth in key economic subsectors. For more information on the Uniterra program, our approach and countries of focus please visit: Uniterra.ca PARTNER DESCRIPTION: The partner organization, Flor de Leche (www.flordeleche.com), is a dairy products business, specializing in cheese and yogurt, that is committed to sustainable development. Located in the municipality of Achocalla, near La Paz, Flor de Leche defines itself as an environmentally responsible organization. As such, it integrates the values of responsibility and social development into its management practices by placing human, economic, environmental and spiritual concerns at the heart of its business decisions. Through education, the organization seeks to improve the living standards of dairy producers, as well as sensitize the general public concerning the dairy industry. The objective of Flor de Leche’s constant quest for excellence is improving the quality of life of citizens. By offering a range of gourmet and healthy food products (cheeses and yogurt), free of chemical additives, Flor de Leche has positioned itself as an environmentally responsible organization. With these values in mind, the volunteer will examine the options in terms of improving the quality of Flor de Leche’s cheeses and, in particular, of ensuring that they always conserve the same level of quality. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Carefully study Flor de Leche’s production processes for ripened and aged cheeses. Systematize the production processes for ripened and aged cheeses. Systematize quality related information for the different types of ripened and aged cheeses produced by Flor de Leche (e.g., pH, fermentation processes, etc.). Review the production processes for each variety of cheese produced by Flor de Leche. Review the data from the different quality analyses done by Flor de Leche (principally in relation to fermentation and pH related processes). Validate the operational processes (and make recommendations on improvements, if necessary). Identify the critical control points that make it possible to stabilize the quality of different cheeses. Present and implement a plan that will enable stabilizing the quality and flavour of different cheeses. QUALIFICATIONS: Training in agronomy, food engineering, agribusiness, biochemistry or any other relevant field, ideally with a specialization in the cheese sector or other related experience. Expertise in artisanal cheeses and in the processes of making, ripening or aging cheeses, an asset. Considerable affinity for environmentally responsible enterprises or organizations, endeavouring to contribute to integral local development. Interest in social concerns, artisan work, alternative economics and the environment. Experience in business start-ups. Strong proficiency in participatory research techniques. Project design and development skills. Analytical and writing skills. Ability to work in a multicultural environment. Flexibility and ability to work with very little supervision. Availability, openness and resourcefulness. Strong command of French and spoken and written Spanish. Knowledge of gender equality issues. Experience in a developing country, an asset. VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT: Support and guidance prior to departure and while on assignment in country. Participation in a pre-departure training where you will have the opportunity to learn about the program, gain practical skills for living and working in an intercultural context and meet other volunteers. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered. In-country orientation and briefing upon arrival in-country. Language training in-country where required. Return flights, visas and work permits. Cost of required country specific vaccinations and antimalarials. Health insurance. Modest monthly living allowance while overseas. Accommodation while overseas. Vacation leave entitlement. Return debriefing in Canada after completion of assignment. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered. An incredible opportunity to enhance your professional skills and participate in an experience of a lifetime! 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 shall undertake to make a minimum financial contribution of $1,500 for participating in the program. TO APPLY: Please reach the Uniterra recruitment team http://uniterra.ca/fr/contact>http://uniterra.ca/en/contact