Associate, Sustainability - SCS Global Services
Emeryville, CA 94608
About the Job
Job Overview
The Associate is responsible for field audits, desk audits, and providing technical expertise towards the development and continued improvement of standards, program materials and procedures for pre-existing programs. The Associate participates in the development of new certification and/or auditing programs. Further responsibilities may include research and development for new business opportunities and attendance at trade shows, conferences and trainings.
Relevant Services/Schemes
- Non-GMO Project
- USDA NOP Organic Certification
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The position has a primary focus on the Non-GMO Project Verification program and/or USDA NOP Organic Certification program. The Associate supports other programs and new program development as needed.
Auditing
- Conduct field audits of production and processing sites
- Conduct desk-based audits including the review of audit reports completed by staff auditors and regionally-based auditors
Communications
- Ensure communications between SCS auditors, other third-party auditing organizations, and clients are carried out in a timely fashion
- Attend trainings, trade shows, conferences, and meetings, as necessary
- Work with clients on audit-related issues
Technical Support
- Provide guidance and support to auditors and other partners via email and telephone with auditors and other third-party organizations
- Prepare written guidance updates for third-party auditors and provide technical support to clients on an as needed basis
- Develop, translate, and edit program materials, reports, and report templates
- Develop and deliver training programs and related materials for third-party auditing organizations
Program Development
- Carry out research in support of new program development
- Develop program materials, workflows and procedures related to preexisting programs or programs under development
Operations
- Assist Director and Manager with managing contract auditors, if applicable
- Ensure program compliance with SCS quality system
- Support and, if needed, represent the program for internal initiatives, such as ISO accreditation, etc.
- Additional tasks as requested by the Director and Manager
The above description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.
Qualifications
- Excellent technical writing, observation and data management skills required
- Strong communication abilities and demonstrated abilities in critical analysis preferred
- Ability to complete time-sensitive projects and to provide realistic deadlines
- Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail required
- Initiative and ability to work independently; responsive and adaptive to team environment
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field (e.g. agriculture and/or international development related), graduate degree preferred
- 2 – 3 years audit work experience or food technology work experience in the food or agriculture industry is require
- ISO 9001, ISO 19011 or equivalent audit training preferred
- Experience with third party auditing, certification systems, ISO 9001:2008 quality systems, or other applicable industry standards
- Verbal and written proficiency in Spanish strongly desired
- Experience in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
Physical Requirements
Sit or stand 6+ hours per day. Keyboarding 6+ hours per day. Must be able to lift and carry 20 pounds. Must be able to speak and listen in person and on the phone.
Work Environment
Office environment when not performing audits for clients. Must be able to speak and listen in person and on the phone. Auditing may require international travel and extensive hours in the field. Must be able to walk and hike on rugged terrain and work in varying climates and outdoor environments.
Agricultural field and food facilities during audits, and auditor assessment activities:
- Open agricultural fields and orchards
- Working close proximity to moving tractors, farm machinery, forklifts, and processing equipment
- In and around pesticides and other processing and sanitation chemical storage facilities
- Under temperature/weather extremes of high heat/cold, dusty and/or windy conditions
- Travel with/in client vehicles to factory/farm often in rural areas
EEOC Statement:
SCS Global Services provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. SCS Global Services complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training