Certification Specialist (Processing/Handling Scope)
Full-time, Remote position

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**The Organic Certification Specialist (Processing/Handling Scope) is a full-time remote staff position for Baystate Organic Certifiers. Primary duties entail technical review of applications for organic certification of certified organic food processing operations, working in a collaborative environment with other remote employees, and potentially inspection of certified organic food processors.

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Duties:** _ _
Technical review (Primary Duty):__
• Review certification applications as assigned to determine the applicants' adherence to organic practices, use of approved inputs, and compliance with recordkeeping protocols.
• Complete review forms and checklists as required.
• Review labels and packaging to verify accuracy of organic content representation and compliance with the labeling requirements as defined by the organic standards.
• Other duties as deemed necessary.

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Inspection (Potential Future Secondary Duty):
• Conduct onsite inspections of new and renewing certified processing facilities, recordkeeping, management practices, and procedures to verify and report on the operation's compliance with the organic standards.
• Collect sample collection for residue testing and/or unannounced inspections as assigned.
• Submit comprehensive and accurate report writing for all inspections in a timely manner. **_

Qualifications:_**
• Competency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• General computer fluency.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Previous experience working with clients and customers in developing working relationships and building rapport.
• Reliable cell phone and internet connection.
• Able to travel for training as needed (1-3 times a year initially; additional travel may be necessary in the future)
• Food Production/Processing experience or education.
• International trade knowledge is preferred but not required.

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Requirements:_
• B.A./B.S. degree or higher in an applicable field, or relevant and equivalent work experience.
• Previous experience or understanding of regulatory programs and/or the organic industry.
• Understanding of the USDA NOP National Organic Standards (Handling scope preferred)

This is a full-time staff position; hourly wages will be determined based on the candidate's level of experience and qualifications. Additional IOIA Organic Inspector training and on-the-job experience will be provided to the qualified candidate for this position. Baystate employees' benefits include competitive compensation, career growth and advancement opportunities within our agency, a collaborative working environment, paid vacation, personal, and sick leave, and 401k retirement plan option.

Baystate Organic Certifiers is operated by Massachusetts Independent Certification, Inc. (MIC). MIC is a non-profit business incorporated in the state of Massachusetts, dedicated to sustainable agriculture and food certification, organized as a 501(c)3 ****

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corporation. MIC provides affordable certification services to farms using sustainable agriculture practices and to food processing and handling operations that produce sustainable agriculture products. Through its Baystate Organic Certifiers program, MIC provides affordable and timely organic certifications to farmers primarily in the eastern United States, and to processors and handlers in the continental United States. Baystate Organic Certifiers certifies farms that use organic agriculture practices and certifies food processing and handling operations that produce organic agriculture products.

This position will remain open until filled.

MIC (Baystate Organic Certifiers) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital and family status. MIC strives to attain a diverse workforce, ensure equal opportunity, support civil rights and create a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. In support of this policy, equal employment opportunity and civil rights for all contractors, employees and clients are an essential part of all programs administered by MIC.