OMRI is Hiring an Inspections Operations Supervisor

About OMRI

Have you ever wondered how organic farmers and producers find trustworthy products that meet organic standards? That’s where the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) steps into the picture. OMRI is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and maintaining the integrity of the organic industry. We operate an internationally recognized evaluation program that reviews and lists input materials for use in producing, processing, and handling organic food and fiber.

The OMRI Listed® seal signifies that the product is permitted in organic operations certified by the USDA National Organic Program or the Canadian Organic Standards. It serves as a stamp of approval, allowing certified organic producers a simple way to responsibly choose input products.

OMRI is actively engaged in diversifying its workforce, creating an equitable workplace culture, and creating an inclusive workplace environment. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every one of the qualifications listed. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet every one of our qualifications listed. Read our full IDEA Policy and Vision here.

Location: Though our office is in Eugene, Oregon (Learn more about the City of Eugene), this position is open to being in person, remote or hybrid in Eugene or completely remote from the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Who We’re Looking For

The Inspections Operations Supervisor (IOS) plays a key leadership role in advancing OMRI’s mission to uphold organic integrity by conducting and monitoring annual inspection activities, supervising a team of assistants, and enhancing the tools and practices that support OMRI’s inspections program. Additionally, the IOS is a strategic contributor to the Inspections Program by reviewing progress, proactively identifying potential issues, and working to resolve them.

As an Inspections Operations Supervisor, you will oversee a team of Inspections Administrative Assistants (IAA) and manage daily administrative operations and annual activities. You will directly support the timeliness and efficacy of OMRI’s inspections program by determining appropriate surveillance methods, updating records, and monitoring progress. This role requires effectively balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day support and activities.

Starting salary: $51,805 to $56,805 per year (dependent on education and experience); 40 hours per week; flexible work hours; generous PTO

This total pay range takes into account various factors that influence compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, skills, experience, training, location, licensure, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed pay range estimate has not been adjusted for any geographical differences related to the location where the position may be filled. At OMRI, it is uncommon for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the posted pay range for their role. Compensation decisions are based on the specific facts and circumstances of each situation.

Core Responsibilities

Inspections Program Coordination

• Coordinate risk-based, for-cause, and random surveillance activities to identify and protect against fraud and ensure compliance with regulatory guidance and OMRI standards.
  • Identify the most effective surveillance methods for the situation, maximizing the evidence and information obtained relative to the cost of each method.
  • Compile periodic data and analyze cumulative results to evaluate the effectiveness of the surveillance activities and inform program improvements.
  • Stay updated on inspections and review processes to identify and address trends, knowledge gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

Workload & Capacity Management

• • Oversee, monitor, and optimize workload distribution to ensure surveillance activities are conducted in a timely and efficient manner.
• Collaborate effectively with the inspector supervisor to ensure training and recruitment needs are met, while proactively monitoring inspector capacity and performance to resolve and prevent scheduling conflicts.
  • Manage contracted laboratories to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements, contract obligations, competitive pricing, and the availability of robust testing methodologies.
  • Ensure accurate and timely invoicing for inspected clients, contracted inspectors, and laboratories.

Leadership & Team Development

• • Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture within the Inspections Administration team.
  • Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and support to team members to achieve their individual and team goals.
  • Effectively conduct regular one-on-one check-ins and performance evaluations, establish goals and development plans for direct reports, focusing on technical skills and behavioral competencies.
  • Actively support the professional growth of team members through structured goal setting and development opportunities aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Empower team members by promoting autonomy and decision-making appropriate to their roles while ensuring accountability to organizational standards and policies.
  • Ensure clear, consistent communication across the team, including cascading organizational updates and facilitating two-way feedback between staff and leadership.
  • Identify staffing needs, assist in recruitment, and support effective onboarding of new team members.
  • Ensure that team operations run efficiently by addressing workflow barriers, adjusting priorities as needed, and collaborating with cross-functional partners.

Performance Management & Quality Assurance

• • Establish or communicate clear performance expectations, including productivity goals, quality targets, improvement initiatives, and client communication standards.
  • Monitor and review team performance, leveraging quantitative and qualitative data to provide actionable feedback.
  • Respond quickly and develop strategies to address underperformance and recognize high-performing individuals.
  • Ensure team adherence to OMRI’s Quality System and Client Standards of Care.

Client-Centric Communication & Support

• • Serve as a knowledgeable, reliable, and responsive point of contact for internal and external clients, guiding them through service requests with clarity and professionalism while reinforcing OMRI’s standards and service expectations.
  • Ensure a positive client experience by communicating in a timely, courteous, and accurate manner, keeping clients well-informed and engaged.
  • Achieve client satisfaction through timely and helpful responses, empowering clients with the information they need to navigate OMRI’s processes.

Collaboration & Team Dynamics

• • Contribute to a positive team and organizational environment that emphasizes shared goals, trust, and constructive problem-solving.
  • Model and reinforce constructive conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and inclusive behavior across the team and organization.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to adapt to changing tasks and take on additional responsibilities as needed, showing readiness to step outside of defined roles for the greater good of the team or organization.

Confidentiality & Data Security

• Adhere strictly to OMRI’s technology practices and network security guidelines, safeguarding client and organizational information.
  • Protect the integrity of sensitive information, maintaining compliance with OMRI’s confidentiality policies and data security standards, while maintaining transparency and trust with clients and stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience beyond the requirements below may be considered as a substitute for the degree requirement. Degrees in a relevant field (e.g., Agriculture, Chemistry, Biology, Business, Communication, Education, Environmental Science) preferred.
• 2 years of experience managing and developing employees preferred, ideally in a regulatory, technical service, or policy-based environment.
• 2 years of experience in project management, process improvement, or operations management is preferred.
• 2 years of experience with organic inspections preferred.
• IOIA certification required, or ability to obtain

Skills and Competencies

• • Proficiency in standard office software and database management.
  • Superior written and oral communication skills, able to convey complex information clearly and concisely, emphasizing client service across various channels and audiences.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a dynamic team, embracing change, continuous learning, and professional growth.
• Familiarity with organic agriculture, food systems, and compliance standards (e.g., ISO 17065)
• High-level attention to detail and the ability to process complex information and instructions effectively.
• Demonstrates cultural awareness and a commitment to inclusion.
• Effective project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective public speaking and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrates strategic thinking by aligning team efforts with organizational goals, anticipating challenges, and identifying opportunities for growth.
  • Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development and employee engagement.
  • Lead with emotional intelligence by practicing self-awareness, empathy, and composure, and by fostering trust and psychological safety within the team.
  • Proven ability to manage performance and drive results within a fast-paced, client-oriented environment.
  • Makes timely, informed decisions and ensures that the team is accountable for meeting expectations, quality standards, and deadlines.
  • Proactive and adaptable, with a demonstrated ability to lead change initiatives.
  • Guides others through change with clarity and confidence, building buy-in for new initiatives and supporting the team in adapting to evolving priorities.
  • Ability to build positive relationships and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to make and communicate decisions clearly and delegate work as required.

Additional Requirements

• • Ability to work occasional nights and weekends for inspections-related travel.
  • Ability to occasionally travel domestically (internationally, preferred) to shadow or perform inspections.
  • Ability to provide annual motor vehicle reports and proof of auto insurance.
  • Physical requirements to shadow or perform occasional inspections:
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Standing for long periods of time
  • Walking long distances
  • Maneuvering through challenging terrain or awkward production environments

OMRI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

OMRI is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming work environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, performance and business needs.

If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 541-343-7600 or hr@omri.org

Benefits

• • Full-time position with a competitive salary
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental and vision plan
  • 50% employer contribution to dependent medical, vision and dental plans
  • 100% employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability and short-term disability
  • Retirement plan
  • Health and Dependent Care FSAs
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • 13 paid holidays
  • 501c3 non-profit organization eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  • Opportunities for flexible scheduling
  • Opportunities for training and professional development
  • Bike-friendly business and support for remote work and alternative transportation options
  • Small nonprofit organization with an established team and a leading role in the organic industry
  • Casual, fun work environment
  • For more detailed information, please visit our Description of Benefits