Carpet Weaving Specialist (Center Lead)

Women Activities & Social Service Association (WASSA) was established in 2002 in Afghanistan as a non-governmental organization, committed to seeking ways for women's empowerment in Afghanistan. WASSA aims to promote women's equal participation in socio-economic sectors of the country. WASSA works directly with communities to bring change in the social attitude of the community regarding women.

An envision “Equal participation of women & men in all sectors of the country.

• Equal Opportunities: WASSA is dedicated to offering equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified candidates, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, ethnicity, age, or disability.
• Safeguarding and Conduct: WASSA will contact previous employers to inquire about any history of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment during the candidate's employment, including incidents under investigation at the time the candidate left. Job offers are conditional on satisfactory reference checks. By applying, candidates confirm they understand and accept these procedures.
• Final Selection: The selected candidate must pass a background check and reference check. They will also be required to sign WASSA's Code of Conduct, PSEA (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse), Safeguarding, and other relevant policies before receiving a final job offer/contract 

Position Summary

The Carpet Weaving Specialist (Center Lead) is responsible for the overall technical management and supervision of the Injil Carpet Weaving Center in Herat. The position oversees all activities including wool spinning, carpet weaving, thread dyeing, carpet processing, beneficiary training, production management, and marketing.

The role ensures that center operations run effectively and that beneficiaries gain market-relevant skills to produce high-quality carpets that meet both national and international market standards. The Specialist also supports cooperative development, facilitates market linkages, and represents the center during visits from partners, stakeholders, and donors. Through these responsibilities, the position contributes to sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment of women and vulnerable communities.

Job Descriptions

• Lead and manage all technical and operational activities of the center including wool spinning, carpet weaving, thread dyeing, and carpet processing while ensuring adherence to quality standards.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive training curriculum covering carpet weaving techniques, design, craftsmanship, quality control, and market-oriented production.

• Conduct practical training and mentoring sessions for beneficiaries to strengthen their technical skills, productivity, and product quality.

• Monitor and evaluate beneficiary progress and performance, providing regular feedback and support to improve skills and ensure effective participation.

• Oversee production planning, workflow management, and quality assurance to ensure carpets are produced efficiently and meet high-quality standards.

• Support the development of innovative and market-oriented carpet designs that respond to both traditional Afghan patterns and international market trends.

• Facilitate market access by establishing connections with local and international buyers, traders, exhibitions, and cooperatives.

• Support cooperative development and management including record keeping, income tracking, production planning, and fair distribution of benefits among members.

• Facilitate and coordinate beneficiary participation in national and international exhibitions, trade events, and marketing initiatives.

• Host and facilitate visits from project partners, authorities, and international donors by presenting center activities and demonstrating production processes.

• Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports on training activities, production outputs, sales, and center operations.

• Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment, raw materials, and facilities at the center.

• Coordinate with artisans, community members, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen the carpet value chain and sustainability of the center.

• Foster a supportive learning environment that promotes collaboration, respect for traditional craftsmanship, and economic empowerment of beneficiaries.

• Bachelor’s degree and or a degree in Carpet Weaving, Textile Arts, Handicrafts, Fine Arts, Industrial Design, or a related field. Relevant vocational certifications are an asset.

• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in carpet weaving, textile production, or related handicraft sectors.

• Demonstrated experience in training artisans or managing carpet weaving or handicraft production centers.

• Strong knowledge of Afghan carpet designs, patterns, weaving techniques, dyeing processes, and quality control.

• Experience in product development, marketing, and linking handicraft products to local or international markets is highly desirable.

• Strong management and coordination skills with the ability to supervise staff, trainees, and production processes.

• Fluency in English (spoken and written) and local languages such as Dari/Pashto.

• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.

• Interested, qualified candidates should submit their information/request through the link (https://airtable.com/appXJFO5fFK5sHWV2/shrxP0sYB1bNEFlqr)
• Academic certificates or references do not need to be submitted at this time. These will be requested if an interview is called for.
• Only short-listed candidates will be invited for the written test and interview upon project approval.