Are you qualified auditor passionate about sustainable agriculture and environmental integrity?

Overview:

The Smartcane BMP (Best Management Practice) program is a leading accreditation program for on-farm best practice in the sugar cane industry. Independent, third-party auditing plays a vital role in upholding industry standards, protecting the reputation of certified growers, and supporting the sugar industry’s commitment to responsible land and water management.  

The program is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from suitably qualified and experienced professionals to join a pool of independent contractors available to conduct on-farm audits under the Smartcane BMP program. This engagement will support the continued delivery of independent certification against the Smartcane BMP standards, guided by ISO 19011:2018 auditing principles.This is a contractor-only engagement. Successful applicants will be engaged as independent contractors and will not be employees of Smartcane BMP. Contractors will be responsible for managing their own taxation, insurance, superannuation, and equipment.

Independent auditing is a cornerstone of the Smartcane BMP system ensuring that certification is credible, transparent, and free from bias. Contractors will be called upon on an as needs basis, to conduct on-farm audits of cane farming businesses, assessing compliance with the Smartcane BMP modules and standards. Independent auditors require a strong understanding of agricultural sustainability practices, stakeholder engagement, and audit processes.  

Key Responsibilities: 

• Independent contractors to join pool of Smartcane BMP auditors.
• Provide Specialist advice, as required from time to time, to the Smartcane Program and team.
• Assess compliance with Smartcane BMP standards, identify non-conformities, and provide clear, actionable feedback to the Smartcane Program Manager.
• Prepare accurate, and timely audit reports and maintain thorough documentation. 
• Participate in ongoing auditor training and calibration sessions as required. 
• Maintain high standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and integrity throughout the audit process; and 
• Adhere to the Smartcane BMP Code of Ethics.

Essential Criteria:

• Degree or equivalent experience (5+ years) in agriculture, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field. 
• Completion of ISO 19011 – compliant auditor training or certification is required.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in cane industry.
• Demonstrated knowledge of cane farming systems and agricultural best practices would be an advantage. 
• Demonstrated experience conducting audits or assessments in agricultural or environmental programs (e.g ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems, Agricultural Environmentally Relevant Activity (ERA) Standard for Sugarcane Cultivation). 
• Strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively. 
• Supply a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) and evidence of current public liability and professional liability insurance to cover the contractor’s work; and
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to rural areas for on farm audits. 

Desirable Attributes: 

• Familiarity with the sugar industry and Smartcane BMP framework. 
• Experience working with landholders, grower groups, or industry bodies. 
• Competence in digital data collection; and
• Excellent communication skills and pragmatic attitude.