Technical Specialist I, SPO

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Perform certification audits both onsite and remotely in accordance with RSPO standards, certification criteria, and relevant ISO auditing guidelines.

• Complete the assigned audits within the specified timelines and program protocols.

• Conduct technical evaluations, data verification, document assessments, and risk analyses.

• Assist in the creation of audit plans, risk assessments, and verification strategies.

• Generate precise audit reports that include standards interpretations, technical findings, and supporting documentation.

• Record, communicate, and resolve audit findings, including corrective action requests and follow-ups.

• Engage in witness audits and calibration activities.

• Carry out technical research and interpret relevant standards.

• Provide certification services in line with SCS quality, accreditation, and certification standards.

• Take part in both internal and external accreditation audits and facilitate corrective actions.

• Keep records of competencies, training logs, calibration activities, and technical qualifications.

• Stay updated on RSPO standards, EUDR requirements, certification changes, and industry best practices.

• Support the SCS Quality Management System and adhere to documentation standards.

• Assist in the technical review of audit reports and certification documents.

• Contribute to the development and enhancement of program templates, guidance documents, and quality management tools.

• Participate in technical training, calibration, and continuous improvement efforts.

• Communicate effectively with clients, auditors, international affiliates, and internal stakeholders.

• Advise clients on certification requirements, audit expectations, and necessary documentation.

• Assist in audit planning, client preparation, and project management.

• Address routine technical and certification questions while escalating complex issues as needed.

• Foster collaborative relationships to ensure quality service delivery and prompt project completion.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in natural resources, sustainability, environmental studies, or a related discipline.

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in professional auditing or quality assurance within a manufacturing environment.

• Familiarity with the third-party certification process.

• Professional experience in the palm oil industry, including palm oil mills, refineries, crushers, oleochemical producers, biodiesel, food manufacturing, home and personal care products, animal feed, and/or cosmetics.

• Experience with HCV and HCS assessments, social auditing, or involvement in human rights initiatives.

• Proven understanding of the most recent RSPO Certification Systems.

• Completion of the RSPO Supply Chain Lead Auditor certification course or a commitment to undertake courses and training offered by SCS.

• Completion of the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor course or a commitment to take the ISO course provided by SCS.

• Willingness and ability to travel for audits up to 50-75% of the year.

• Proficient in English with strong professional and technical verbal and written communication skills.

• Excellent organizational and prioritization capabilities with outstanding attention to detail.

• Competent in MS Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).

• Ability to learn, adapt, and utilize both internal and external database systems.

• Strong communication and customer service abilities.

• Demonstrates initiative, sound judgment, and the capacity to work independently under pressure in a dynamic environment.

• Master's Degree in natural resources, sustainability, environmental studies, or a related area (preferred).

• Proficiency in another language such as French, Spanish, Portuguese, etc. (preferred).

🏝️ Benefits

• Remote, home-office based position.

• Flexible working arrangements.

• Opportunities for local, domestic, and/or international travel.

• Equal employment opportunities.