Forest Management Contract Auditors

Preferred by Nature is an international non-profit organization that works for sustainable land use and climate-friendly solutions. With 360+ staff around the world, our projects build capacity, raise awareness, conserve nature and streamline sustainability through innovation. We focus our work on forest and climate impact commodities and related sectors. Preferred by Nature’s US office is based in Richmond, Vermont. 

Contract Auditor Role:

We are seeking Forest Management Contract Auditors to be based in the US. Ideal locations include the Southeastern or Midwest United States, or California. (Other locations will be considered.)

Forest Management (FM) Auditors perform third-party audits according to Preferred by Nature certification policies/procedures and the requirements of the applicable Forest Stewardship Council ® (FSC®), Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI), and/or other forest management standards.

Contract auditors are responsible for conducting confidential stakeholder outreach, planning audit site visits, collecting and interpreting objective evidence, observing management activities in the field, and interviewing auditee staff and stakeholders. Contract auditors deliver reports to Preferred by Nature based on audit findings after the on-site work.

As representatives of Preferred by Nature, contract auditors are expected to uphold the highest standards of quality, integrity and professionalism. Contractors are responsible for staying up to date on standard requirements and attending occasional trainings and meetings. Completion of assigned work deliverables within established timelines is essential.

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in forestry, Natural Resource Management, Forest Ecology, or related field required, master’s degree a plus

· Professionals with 5+ years of field experience in the field of forestry, forest management, forest ecology and/or the forest products industry and understanding of associated management systems and programs preferred. Silviculture and harvesting experience a plus; experience in Forest Carbon and/or Sustainable Biomass projects also a plus.

· Previous auditing experience and/or ISO training preferred

· Willingness to attend auditor and ISO training (if needed)

· Knowledge of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certification preferred

· Experience integrating economic, environmental and social aspects of forestry

· Understanding of forestry and environmental laws and regulations

· Fluency in English required, with strong verbal and written communication skills preferred

· Strong computer skills (word processing, databases, spreadsheets)

· Ability to work with a wide variety of people

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

· Ability to take initiative, be resourceful and dependable

· Field auditing may require exposure to difficult terrain and hot, dry, cold or inclement weather

· Valid driver's license

· Willingness to travel (local and nationally)

Audits are awarded and performed on a contract basis. Contractors are paid at an agreed upon daily rate, including travel expenses. Contractors are required to provide their own equipment.

Please note: Only applicants legally eligible to work in the United States will be considered. Ability to work in both US and Canada a plus.

Preferred by Nature wishes our auditors to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of personal background.

For questions, please contact:

Randy Coots, Forestry Specialist

Email: rcoots@preferredbynature.org