Certification Specialist

California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) is one of the oldest and largest organic certification organizations in the U.S. and works to promote organic production through certification, education, and outreach programs. More information is available at http://www.ccof.org/.  

Position Overview: 

CCOF Certification Services, LLC (CCOF) has an immediate opening for a Certification Specialist to work in the Santa Cruz, California office performing tasks related to organic handler/processor & retailer certification. The person in this position will work within CCOF's rapidly expanding USDA National Organic Program and internationally accredited organic certification program.

Applicants must be able to work in a fast paced office environment with significant job responsibilities. This job requires knowledge of organic production/processing practices, ability to work independently and as a team with other professionals. The job also requires customer service skills, the ability to manage data, and to work within a regulatory environment.

Responsibilities:

• Report directly to the Handler Certification Supervisor.
• Review/process handler client applications and files for compliance to the USDA National Organic Program and other international programs.
• Provide technical services to CCOF Certification Services clients.
• Ensure that the CCOF quality system is implemented.
• Provide written and verbal instructions to CCOF clients regarding compliance to all applicable standards.
• Ensure that physical files as well as database records are consistent and current.
• Routine administrative tasks including filing, copying and mailing.
• Work on special projects as deemed necessary by the Handler Certification Supervisor or Certification Services Director.

Qualifications:

• B.A. degree or higher preferred in agriculture, food technology or related field. Experience and/or education in food processing or handling is a plus.
• 1 or more years experience in a professional office environment and/or quality assurance.
• Education, training, or work experience in sustainable agriculture/organic processing desired. (Experience on an organic farm performing post harvest handling may be considered equivalent.)
• IOIA Organic Inspector training or equivalent experience is a plus. (Auditor training for food quality production systems or similar field is considered equivalent.)
• Must have proficient computer skills including all aspects of programs such as Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Experience with quality auditing or regulatory compliance auditing desired.

Required Skills:

• Excellent communication skills in person, on the phone, and in writing.
• Excellent spelling and grammar skills.
• Competency in word processing, databases, and email.
• Organizational skills to organize, monitor, and track numerous activities throughout the year.
• Ability to logically solve problems and work under pressure.
• Ability to work with various groups of people.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task in a busy environment.
• Spanish language skills are a plus.
• Experience in working with environmental regulatory programs is a plus.

Compensation: Full Time, at will employee. Salary is dependant upon experience with a starting range of $35,000 - $40,000 per year depending upon capacity to perform inspections and other roles within CCOF. Excellent benefits include fully paid medical, dental and vision; paid vacation; and 401k retirement plan with company match.

Application Deadline:  November 7th, 2008
Position open until filled.

To Apply:

Please submit cover letter and resume to CCOF Certification Services by email or fax, attn: Steve. No phone calls please. You will be contacted only if an interview is requested.