Research assistant in Tanning Process Data Collection and An...
1.0 Background:
The Small Enterprise Center (SEC) Association is a Palestinian non-profit organization that started in 2002 as a project within the framework of GIZ Private Sector Development Project. In 2008, SEC officially registered as an independent non-profit organization governed by the Palestinian Law of Charitable Associations and Community Organizations No.1 for the year 2000. SEC began with an office in Ramallah and has grown to be a leading national organization serving Palestinian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and social enterprises (including cooperatives).
Through a strategic partnership with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), Global Communities (GC) is implementing the Supporting MSMEs Competitiveness and Growth in Palestine (SMCGP) program. The 44-month program aims to improve the conditions necessary for increased competitiveness and growth of MSMEs, contributing to inclusive sustainable economic development, including better income generation and productive employment with decent working conditions, particularly for women and youth. The SMCGP adopts the Market Systems Development (MSD) approach by employing facilitative approaches with learning at its core. SMCGP will target the creative industries sector which comprises three sectors including Furniture, Footwear and Leather, and Handicrafts.
Within the framework of the sub-agreement signed between the Global Communities and the Small Enterprise Center (SEC) to Supporting MSMEs Competitiveness and Growth in Palestine Programme funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), SEC is seeking technical expert in tanning process data collection and analysis to support the optimization of chromium recovery and the tanning process in the local leather tanning industry
SEC invites qualified Palestinian individual experts to submit technical and financial proposals.
2.0 Questions and Requests for Clarifications:
Questions regarding the technical or administrative requirements of this ToRs may be submitted no later than, Wednesday 6th of August 2025 (Ramallah Local Time) by email to [email protected]. Questions must be submitted in writing; phone calls will not be accepted. Questions, requests for clarifications and the responses thereto that SEC believes may be of interest to other offers will be circulated to all TORs recipients who have indicated an interest in bidding.
Only the written answers issued by SEC will be considered official and carry weight in the ToRs process and subsequent evaluation. Any verbal information received from employees of SEC, or any other entity should not be considered as an official response to any questions regarding this TORs.
2.0 Purpose of this assignment:
SEC is seeking a Short-Term Technical Expert in Tanning Process Data Collection and Analysis (-6 day assignment) to orient the Research Assistant in sample gathering, application of agreed-upon parameters during the tanning process, and laboratory testing. The expert will also analyze lab test results related to tanning efficiency and integrate the results in a full technical report that aims at improving process performance.
3.0 Expert’s key responsibilities:
Orientation of the Research Assistant
- Provide a suitable orientation on the parametric study of the research plan for research assistant
- Advice the assigned research assistance on the required sampling from tanneries according to agreed-upon protocols, maintaining proper documentation and chain of custody.
- Design data forms (Excell) covering all variables of the tanning process, in cooperation with the assigned research assistant.
- Advice the Research Assistance on filling these forms
Data Analysis and Result Formulation
Prepare forms of applying the correct parameters on the leather samples and laboratory data tabulations and charts.
Compiles organize and analyses field and laboratory data in a required table/ chart forms to identifying key findings and trends.
Summarize findings from the perspective of developing the current practice of the local tanneries
Reporting and Documentation
Prepare a final report summarized the research methodology, the results and discussions and the main conclusions.
4.0 Main Deliverables:
Orientation Session(s) to the research assistant
Prepared (Excel) forms of experimentation and data collection for the research assistant
Prepared tables and charts based on the laboratory data.
A comprehensive final report summarizing all lab results, data analyses, applied parameters on each sample and key recommendations for improving the tanning process.
5.0 Qualifications and Work Experience of the Expert:
The expert should possess the following qualifications:
A minimum of a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Demonstrated expertise in leather tanning processes, chrome recovery, or related environmental management fields.
Prior experience in training, coaching, or capacity-building for technical teams.
Proven ability to interpret lab test results and translate them into actionable recommendations.
Familiarity with best practices in sustainable tanning, chemical handling, and environmental regulations.
Strong presentation skills and the ability to convey technical information to diverse stakeholders.
Experience working with small-scale industrial facilities or pilot projects is an advantage.
Able to commit to a 6-day assignment, with flexibility for preparation and follow-up as needed.
6.0 Duration of Appointment:
The expected level of effort for this assignment is 6 working days, to be completed by 15 of September, 2025 by the latest.
7.0 Logistic Support for the Consultant:
SEC and HLSC will provide the consultant with planning meetings and organizing focus groups if needed.
8.0 Confidentiality Clause:
All research findings and recommendations produced during this assignment are confidential and intended solely for the use of the R&D committee. No information may be disseminated or utilized for any purpose without prior approval from the committee to ensure the integrity and privacy of the project.
9.0 Deadlines for Submitting CVs and Technical and Financial Offers:
The deadline for submitting CVs, and Technical and Financial offers by latest Wednesday 6th of August, 2025 (Ramallah Local Time)
Kindly send the offers to SEC email:
