OMRI is Hiring a Product Review Coordinator

About OMRI

The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a leading nonprofit organization working to strengthen the organic industry.  OMRI runs an internationally recognized evaluation program that reviews and lists products for use in producing, processing, and handling organic foods and fiber.  OMRI Listed products are deemed appropriate to be used in operations that are certified as organic under the USDA National Organic Program.

Overview of position

We are looking to fill a key position on our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to review applications and assist in the product review program. The review program assesses which input products or ingredients are allowed for use in organic agriculture and food processing. 

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

  • 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 Program 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 tradeshows of appropriate technical societies and trade associations.
  • Regular administrative duties including: monthly staff reports, staff meetings, etc. 

Qualifications

  • Outstanding customer service skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and organize information.
  • Passion for organic food and farming.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Familiarity with MS Office, including Access databases.
  • BS in agriculture, biology, chemistry or food science. Preference for graduate degree in a related field.
  • Those with significant related work experience also encouraged to apply.

Desired qualifications

  • Two or more years of project coordination.
  • Experience in sustainable agriculture and/or natural food processing.
  • Experience handling confidential business information.
  • Knowledge of organic industry and applicable regulations.
  • Work in organic certification or similar experience.
  • Familiarity with standardized procedures such as ISO 65.
  • Spanish  fluency strongly preferred.

Benefits

  • Full-time position with competitive salary ($33-35,000)
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision plan
  • Retirement plan
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Opportunities for flexible scheduling
  • Opportunities for training and coursework
  • Small nonprofit organization with established team and demonstrated commercial success
  • Possible travel
  • Casual, fun work environment

Deadline

May 24, 2013, 5pm PST

How to apply

Submit your resume (or CV) and cover letter in English to: job@omri.org referencing Product Review Coordinator in the subject line.
Only candidates who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

No Phone Calls, Please.

EOE M/F/D/V