Natural Resources Program Associate

Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) is a reputable third-party certification and assessment body headquartered in Emeryville, California, USA. SCS is committed to providing third-party environmental, sustainability and food quality certification, auditing, testing and standards development.

SCS' programs and services recognize the outstanding achievements of companies, institutions and organizations which are meeting the highest levels of performance in environmental protection, social responsibility, product safety and quality and stimulate continuous improvement on the path toward sustainability. In this undertaking, we employ a life-cycle framework, state-of-the-art science, proven analytical methods and performance metrics and professional expertise. To find out more about SCS, please visit us.

Position Overview: 

We seek a highly organized professional to join our Chain-of-Custody (CoC) Certification Services team. This is a full-time hands-on position working closely with a dedicated team of certification professionals.   You will need to be a great communicator (written and oral) both within the team and with our clients around the world. 

The Natural Resources Program Associate is a technical position that supports the Quality and Compliance Manager as well as the Director of Chain of Custody in the administration of the FSC program.  The job entails technical assistance with FSC standards and programmatic requirements, audit scheduling and audit quality control, and administrative support to all aspects of the certification programs within defined project responsibilities.  The position also entails occasional field auditing.

The Chain of Custody Services Program is accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).  FSC chain-of-custody provides a system for tracking certified wood from the forest, through each stage of production and distribution, to the point of sale.  Chain of Custody enables responsible procurement by providing a system for companies to trade in products deriving from well-managed forests. Our CoC team manages a portfolio of more than 2500 clients around the world.

Responsibilities:

• Review submittals of audit reports from our auditors, worldwide, and provide oversight and quality control;
• Learn the technical aspects of FSC Chain of Custody requirements, and be able to communicate them effectively with clients, auditors, and other program staff;  
• Aid in the development of internal guidelines and external communication materials;  
• Support the Quality and Compliance Manager as well as the Director in training, and communication with field auditors;
• Perform chain-of-custody audits, occasionally.  Associates must also attain lead auditor status.  Field auditing is a minor but important aspect of this position.  
• Other duties as assigned, pertaining to the development of the program globally.

Qualifications:

• Minimum B.S. or B.A. degree; prefer a field related to Natural Resources.  Preference will be given to a Masters Degree or significant relevant work experience including supply chain operations and certification;
• Complete fluency in English and work (or school) experience that involves professional written communication;
• Knowledge of other languages is a plus; especially German or Portuguese
• Superlative organizational skills, ability to prioritize numerous tasks effectively;
• Experience with computers, including Outlook, Word, Excel and database management;
• An interest in environmental sustainability, forest conservation, and the missions of SCS, the FSC will be a plus;
• Strong customer service and teamwork orientation;
• Initiative, good judgment, and ability to work independently under pressure in a changing environment;
• Must be willing to work regular business hours, 5 days per week in Emeryville office;

Compensation: Compensation  DOE. SCS offers a competitive benefits package including vacation, health, dental, profit sharing, performance bonuses, and 401(k).

To Apply: 

Please submit a resume and cover letter, including salary requirements, a description of how your skills and experience fit the needs and mission of our company on our on-line form.

SCS is an equal opportunity employer and as such, considers individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. We value diversity and are a company that values employees of many backgrounds. Accordingly, SCS does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions) national origin, ancestry, age, medical condition, physical disability, mental disability, family care status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law. Further, SCS prohibits the harassment of any individual on any of the bases listed above.  This policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, job assignment, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.