Livestock Certification Lead - Organic Compliance

Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association; New Hampshire; Remote; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Parental leave

Paid time off

Holidays

Sabbatical after seven years

Job summary

The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) Certification Services is seeking a Certification Specialist to provide high quality customer service and expert review of organic system plans, inspections, and audit activities.

The role emphasizes collaboration with staff, inspectors, and program managers, with travel within the service territory of Maine, New Hampshire, and parts of Massachusetts.

Qualifications

• Education or experience in organic certification or regulatory compliance, including inspections and auditing.
• Knowledge of USDA-National Organic Program standards, especially as it applies to crop, livestock/dairy, and processing.
• Working knowledge of organic or sustainable crop and livestock farms, dairies, and food processing.
• A demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, especially in writing.
• Excellent organizational skills
• Proficiency in computer software, including databases and collaborative platforms.
• Strong interpersonal skills that welcome collaboration and constructive feedback.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle
• A commitment to MOFGA’s mission and values.
• IOIA training and prior organic inspection experience a plus
• College degree in agriculture or related field a plus
• Must be able to travel to attend meetings, training workshops and conferences.
• Participate in MOFGA’s Common Ground Country Fair as needed.

Responsibilities

• Performs certification activities for clients including these specific activities.
• Perform technical reviews of organic system plans, primarily within the livestock and dairy scope. Communicates according to policy with producers about the results of these reviews.
• Review inspection reports for these same clients. Communicates according to policy with producers about the results of these reviews.
• Assists applicants by explaining the organic standards and the certification process, encouraging them to take advantage of the technical services offered by MOFGA.
• Pursues adverse actions with clients in accordance with MCS policy and in coordination with colleagues/supervisors.
• Keeps track of clients; assures that auditable files are in good order.
• Conduct annual, investigative and/or unannounced inspections or residue sampling as time allows.
• Performs material review of products as needed and in conjunction with other MCS staff and agency affiliates.
• Investigates complaints to protect the integrity of the organic label. Pursues adverse actions, as necessary.
• Participation in MCS internal audits and NOP accreditation audits.
• Other duties and responsibilities as deemed necessary to carry out MOFGA’s certification program and maintain accreditation with USDA.

Skills

Written communication

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Driver's license

Education

College degree in agriculture or related field

Job description

The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) Certification Services is seeking a Certification Specialist to provide high quality customer service and expert review of organic system plans, inspections, and audit activities.

The role emphasizes collaboration with staff, inspectors, and program managers, with travel within the service territory of Maine, New Hampshire, and parts of Massachusetts.