Position Summary
The Sericulture Specialist will lead and oversee the implementation of Silk Rearing, Cocoon Production, Weaving, Processing, and Production Center Program in Herat (Zindajan). This role involves managing all aspects of the silk value chain activities, including sericulture, cocoon production, silk processing, weaving, product development, cooperative establishment, and Business Development and Marketing. The specialist will provide technical expertise, capacity-building support, and operational guidance to beneficiaries and cooperatives, ensuring high-quality silk production and market-ready products. The position reports directly to the Regional Project Manager and works closely with project staff, and relevant stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, implementation, and monitoring of all sericulture and silk production activities under the project.
- Provide technical guidance and hands-on training in silkworm rearing, cocoon production, silk extraction, reeling, spinning, dyeing, weaving, and finishing processes.
- Supervise and mentor project staff and 25 selected beneficiaries involved in advanced silk processing and weaving.
- Coordinate the distribution and effective use of startup kits and production equipment for beneficiaries.
- Support cooperative formation and capacity-building, financial sustainability, and facility management.
- Establish cooperatives and develop operational, structural, and financial guidelines for each silk production unit.
- Design and implement a sustainable exit strategy for the silk center to ensure continuity after donor support and successful handover to the community.
- Ensure quality standards, safe working conditions, and adherence to production protocols at the center.
- Facilitate market linkages, product development, and branding in collaboration with the Market Access Program team.
- Conduct needs assessments for equipment, raw materials, and operational improvements; prepare BoQs and technical specifications for procurement.
- Monitor and evaluate the progress of beneficiaries, providing regular technical reports, training records, and recommendations for improvement.
- Organize and supervise demonstrations, workshops, and training sessions for community engagement and skill transfer.
- Collaborate with project staff to prepare weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports.
- Ensure compliance with WASSA’s policies, safeguarding standards, and project operational guidelines.
- Perform any other duties assigned by the Regional Project Manager.
