Agricultural Auditor / Field Agricultural Auditor

About us: Our journey began in 1981 in the United States, rooted in the commodity inspection market. In 2008, we expanded into Canada, further strengthening our presence in the region. Since then, both offices have grown significantly, evolving to offer comprehensive services across the entire supply chain, including agricultural product inspections, agri-food certifications, logistics solutions, and collateral management. Essential Tasks for the Auditor: Compliance Assessment

• Examine company processes, documentation, and on-site practices to verify compliance with agricultural and sustainability certification standards.
• Conducts audits and inspections according to ISO19011 requirements, including:
• Initiating the audit/inspection.
• Conducting document reviews.
• Preparing audit/inspection activities.
• Executing on-site audits/inspections.
• Preparing, approving, and distributing reports.
• Conducting follow-ups to verify corrective actions.

Identification of non-conformities

• Detects deviations or non-compliance with the requirements of agricultural and sustainability schemes.
• Documents all non-conformities clearly and accurately to ensure client understanding and proper certification decisions.

Recommendations and Corrective Action Plans

• Provides feedback and recommendations for corrective actions to address identified issues.
• Evaluates the severity of non-conformities and ensures timely closure of findings through follow-up audits.

Audit Reporting

• Prepares clear, accurate, and detailed audit and inspection reports.
• Ensuring reports are distributed and maintained according to Control Union’s quality management system.

Market and Client Relations

• Maintains strong professional relationships with agricultural clients, ensuring transparency and clarity throughout the audit process.
• Inform management about potential opportunities, risks, and developments in the agricultural and sustainability sectors.
• Maintains regular contact with certification bodies and other relevant authorities.

Certification Process

• Confirms compliance of organizations with applicable agricultural and sustainability standards, enabling them to obtain or maintain certification.

Handling Complaints and Appeals

• Assists in handling claims, complaints, and appeals in accordance with Control Union’s procedures.

Knowledge and Competence

• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of certification requirements for:
• Agricultural and sustainability programs: ISCC, FSA, Commodity sustainability audits (i.e. Peanuts, Soy, Cotton, Barley, Wheat, Potato, etc.)
• Relevant ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001) as they apply to agricultural operations.
• Supply chain traceability systems and sustainability frameworks applicable to agriculture.
• Understands and applies normative documents, scheme manuals, and Control Union procedures effectively.
• Demonstrates strong competence in audit principles, risk assessments, interviewing techniques, and report-writing skills

None - Essential Tasks for the Auditor:

• Supporting Program Developers with technical questions and advise
• Participating in trade shows or conferences
• Assists in handling claims and appeals.

Minimum Requirements for the Auditor:

• University degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related field.
• Experience in agricultural operations, supply chain traceability, or sustainability certification audits.
• Strong understanding of auditing processes, risk assessments, and compliance evaluations specific to agricultural systems.
• Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time for client visits, audits, and industry events.
• Excellent skills in report writing, data analysis, and auditing documentation.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or valid work visa.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to interpret agricultural and environmental regulations and apply them effectively.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interacting with individuals at all organizational levels.
• Ability to work independently for extended periods and collaborate effectively with diverse teams and clients.
• Strong communication, critical analysis, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel.
• Operational Efficiency: Focused on optimizing audit workflows and resource allocation.
• Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge: Deep understanding of agricultural certification and accreditation requirements.
• Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making: Ability to align operational goals with Control Union’s business objectives.
• Customer-Focused Approach: Dedicated to delivering high-quality service and maintaining client satisfaction.

Preferred Requirements for the Auditor:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in auditing or certification in agriculture or sustainability programs.
• Knowledge of certification standards relevant to the programs, such as: ISCC, Rainforest Alliance (RA), RSPO, GlobalG.A.P., Bonsucro, and equivalent agricultural or sustainability schemes & ISO 9001 or ISO 14001.
• Familiarity with international agricultural and sustainability standards, accreditation bodies, and regulatory frameworks.
• Understanding of environmental management systems and sustainable supply chain frameworks.

Minimum level of Training for the Auditor:

• ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Training Course.
• Familiarity with audit software and digital reporting tools.

Preferred level of Training for the Auditor:

• Bilingual Spanish

The Control Union Agriculture Auditor plays a crucial role in inspecting, evaluating, and reporting on clients seeking agricultural certifications. The role ensures compliance with agricultural and sustainability standards, maintaining Control Union’s reputation as a trusted certification body. Professionalism, accuracy, and strong customer service are essential. The Auditor must stay informed on legislative changes, industry updates, and scheme requirements to provide accurate and up-to-date assessments. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job