Product Review Coordinator

We are a growing nonprofit organization working to strengthen the organic industry. We are looking to fill a key position on our team. OMRI runs an internationally recognized evaluation program for material inputs used in organic agriculture and food processing. Also, the organization operates a valuable information service, which distributes lists of products and materials suitable for use in USDA certified organic production.

Overview of position: The primary responsibility of this position is to review applications and assist in the product review program. The review program determines which input products are allowed. Allowed input products may display the OMRI Listed seal, signifying that they are suitable for use on USDA certified organic operations.

Qualified candidates for this coordinator position will have some background in agricultural, biological, chemical or food science with knowledge of regulatory policy, project coordination, the organic industry, and organic certification. 

Major responsibilities include: 

* Participate in on-going work of the OMRI Product Review Program.
* Coordinate technical and regulatory review of product applications, labels, and supplementary information.
* Thoroughly understand and implement OMRI policies and review criteria. 
* Facilitate customer service and correspondence with special attention to applicants whose applications are difficult or complex.
* Stay informed of new developments in applicable regulations and official interpretations of organic standards and regulatory compliance.
* Data entry of product application information into database.
* Review product applications and coordinate preparation of Findings of Fact for further review by OMRI staff and the independent OMRI Review Panels. 
* Coordinate preparations for, and execution of, OMRI Review Panel meetings, and provide clarification of the Findings of Fact as needed.
* In consultation with the Research Director and/or the Executive Director, identify issues for consideration by OMRI Review Panels and/or Advisory Council. 
* Handle confidential business information.
* Manage complaints and compliance issues including OMRI seal misuse.
* Maintain OMRI Listed® product hard copy and electronic files.
* Participate in development of new application procedures and forms, including web-based applications.
* Represent OMRI at conferences and meetings of appropriate technical societies and trade associations.
* Regular administrative duties including: monthly staff reports, staff meetings, etc. 

Desired Qualifications: 

* Passion for organic food and farming.
* Strong written and oral communication skills. 
* Outstanding customer service skills.
* Two or more years of project coordination. 
* Experience in sustainable agriculture and/or natural food processing. 
* Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, organize information, and appropriately handle confidential business information. 
* Familiarity with MS Office, including Access databases, required. 
* Knowledge of organic industry and applicable regulations. 
* BS in agricultural, biological, chemical or food science. Those with significant related work experience also encouraged to apply.
* Work in organic certification or similar experience desired.
* Familiarity with standardized procedures such as ISO 65 preferred.
* Spanish fluency in writing and speaking preferred. Other languages may be considered. 

Benefits: Full-time position with competitive salary and benefits. Small nonprofit organization with established team and demonstrated commercial success.  Opportunities for training and coursework. Possible travel. Casual, fun work environment. 

Deadline: June 21, 2007 or until filled. 

To apply, go to http://omri.org/jobs to complete an application. Then you can send your resume via email.