Overview
The contract Organic Inspector is responsible for conducting audits in accordance with organic and quality management systems. The Organic Inspector will complete on-site and remote audits for SCS to both the organic grower and handler scopes and shall be responsible for the completion and submission of organic inspection reports, a summary of findings, and associated audit evidence.
This is a contract position. We are looking for an Organic Inspector in the East Coast region of the US, and are also open to other regions.
Relevant Services/Schemes
- USDA Organic (primary)
- SCS Gluten-Free (if interested/applicable)
- Non-GMO Project (if interested/applicable)
Scope of Work
Audit Coordination
- Schedule and confirm audit date with client
- Prepare and send client audit plan according to protocols
- Book travel, hotel, and transportation according to company policy, and submit expense reports
Audit Services
- Adhere to all quality and code of conduct standards
- Conduct audits using applicable checklists, forms, and tools
- Maintain positive client relationships and respond to all client inquiries and concerns
- Submit complete and accurate audit reports within established timelines
- Ensure thorough client records are maintained
Program Quality and Compliance
- Conduct witness audits
- Attend trainings to maintain qualification to conduct audits; maintain training records
- Maintain up to date knowledge of National Organic Program (NOP) regulations and standards
- Prepare clients for the audit process by sending required audit paperwork
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate’s Degree in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural/Crop Sciences, Food Sciences, Range/Ecosystem Management, Plant/Soil Sciences
- 2+ years of experience conducting organic inspections to the National Organic Program (NOP) Standards
- IOIA Basic Crops and/or Basic Handling training
- Experience with the third-party certification process
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Well-developed organizational and time management skills
- Strong computer skills, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Database systems
- Willing to travel within the Continental US
Physical Requirements
- This is an office-based job up to 25% of the time and a field position at least 75% of the time.
- Must be able to speak and listen in person and on the phone.
- Must be able to physically travel to audit sites via plane and car. Travel to audit sites requires the ability to stand, walk, and carry up to 20 lbs. of equipment, possibly on steep, rough terrain.
- Work environment while auditing/assessing:
- Open agricultural fields and orchards
- Moving tractors, farm machinery as well as processing equipment
- Pesticide and other chemical storage facilities
- Temperature extremes of high heat or cold
- Traveling in client vehicles to rural sites
