Organic Food Certification Associate

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

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. Customer service skills, ability to manage data, and work within a regulatory environment are required. 

JOB DESCRIPTION: 

* 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 (related degrees include food technology, nutrition, microbiology). Experience and/or education in food processing or handling is a plus.
* One or more years experience in a professional office environment.
* Education, training, or work experience in sustainable agriculture/organic processing desired. (Experience on an organic farm may be considered equivalent.) 
* IOIA 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 a plus. 

Compensation:  Salary is dependant upon experience with base range: $33,000 - $38,000 per year depending upon capacity to perform inspections. Full medical, dental and vision benefits. Vacation and sick time as well as a matching Simple IRA retirement contribution. 

TO APPLY:

Position open until filled. Applications will be reviewed between March 23rd and April 2st, 2007. Submit cover letter and resume to CCOF Certification Services by email or fax, attn: Jody. No phone calls please. You will be contacted only if an interview is requested.