The Internal Inspector is responsible for conducting thorough internal inspections of farms, production units, and collection centers to ensure strict adherence to Internal Control System (ICS) procedures and international organic certification standards, including USDA/NOP and EU 2018/848. This role is vital in maintaining the integrity of the organic supply chain by verifying production methods, estimating yields, and providing essential training and support to farmers and field staff to meet Fair-Trade and quality requirements.
Roles and Responsibilities
Internal Inspection
Perform internal inspections of farms, production units, and collection centers in line with the ICS procedures and organic certification standards- USDA/NOP and EU 2018/848.
Review and verify farm compliance with EU organic regulations, including production methods, field management, and harvesting practices.
Carry out yield estimation and balance verification exercises, ensuring data accuracy.
Ensure that all documentation, including checklists and reports, is accurately completed and submitted on time to the ICS data clerk.
Ensure that all internal inspections are carried out in accordance with the Kentaste Grower Group Quality Manual and the annual work plan.
Identify any non-compliance and provide guidance on corrective actions for all the farmers.
Accompany field officers during field visits and assist with monitoring and evaluation of farm activities.
Farmer Support
Work closely with field officers and farmers to educate them on organic and Fair-Trade standards and practices.
Support farmers in meeting the clients' coconut quality requirements by ensuring traceability of coconuts at farm level.
Provide on-site guidance to farmers on organic input requirements, proper harvesting methods, and other farming activities to meet Organic standards.
Training
Train field officers, buying clerks, receiving clerks and other staff on the inspection process and compliance requirements.
Participate in initial and ongoing training sessions on organic farming regulations and the ICS processes.
Keep up-to-date with changes in EU and USDA/NOP organic regulations and ensure compliance during inspections.
Documentation and Reporting
Prepare detailed reports after each internal inspection, including observations, compliance status, and any necessary follow-up actions for assigned farmers.
Ensure all inspection reports are submitted to the data clerk in a timely manner.
Maintain accurate records of farmer compliance status and provide updates for the Approved Farmers List (AFL).
Assist with compiling data and reports for external inspections and certification bodies.
Communication
Communicate inspection findings and compliance requirements to farmers and field officers.
Ensure that all updates and decisions from the ICS Approvals Committee are conveyed to farmers promptly.
Collaborate with the Sustainability and Compliance Manager (S&C Manager) to create and follow the annual internal inspection schedule.
Attend regular meetings to update the S&C Manager on inspection outcomes and potential issues within the group.
Compliance Monitoring
Evaluate members' ongoing compliance with the ICS and EU regulations throughout the year and report any non-compliance or violations immediately.
Provide recommendations for corrective actions and follow-up on their implementation.
Monitor the implementation of corrective actions by farmers and follow up on areas identified for improvement.
Assist in managing compliance with organic and Fair Trade standards during each stage of production and harvesting, collection, transportation, and holding.
Work closely with the Field officers, supervisors, and S&C Manager to ensure continuous improvement in farmer practices and performance.
Maintain impartiality during inspections and declare any potential conflicts of interest.
Ensure compliance with conflict-of-interest rules: inspectors cannot audit their own parcels of land or members they have personal ties with.
Other Responsibilities
Support the field officers in the recruitment and onboarding of new farmers.
Collaborate with the Field Officers to ensure smooth communication and workflow between farmers and the ICS.
Ensure inspections align with ICS manuals and procedures, including maintaining farm documentation (e.g., maps, input registers).
Be familiar with the group’s internal risk assessment and conduct inspections based on risk categorization.
Participate in any additional duties as required by the S&C Manager.
Update the office on external partners’ activities and engagement at the village level.
Key Skills and Qualifications
A Diploma in Agriculture.
Two years of relevant work experience.
Excellent knowledge and understanding of farming practices including Organic standards, Fair trade, and Climate smart farming techniques.
Computer proficiency: Moderate computer skills, particularly Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should go to the application portal at cdl.zohorecruit.com to apply.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the CDL Human Resource recruitment portal by visiting: https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1181171 which redirects to their Zoho recruitment platform.
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