FSC / PEFC / SBP / Rainforest Alliance Chain of Custody Auditors

Preferred by Nature is a non‑profit organisation that works for sustainable land use and climate‑friendly solutions. With 300+ staff around the world, our projects build capacity, raise awareness, conserve nature and streamline sustainability through innovation. Do you have a passion for forestry / agriculture and sustainability? Do you want to make an impact by ensuring businesses meet responsible sourcing standards and address environmental challenges? If so, you might be the right match for our requirements for supply chain auditors for FSC / PEFC Chain of Custody and also for Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) and Rainforest Alliance (RA) supply chain auditors. The role is based in United Kingdom and covers UK and Ireland with occasional European travel.

What you can expect:

• As an FSC / PEFC / SBP or RA agriculture supply chain auditor you will audit and verify the sustainability and legality of practices for our forestry and agricultural supply chain clients in the UK and Ireland.
• You will play an important role in ensuring that our certification services meet the highest quality standards and will have the opportunity to expand your role to include the day‑to‑day management of this portfolio of over 100 clients as part of a dedicated team.
• You will join an international, mission‑driven organization, gain deeper insights into sustainability certification, and have the opportunity to expand your expertise in certification schemes beyond FSC / PEFC / SBP / RA, and into other sustainability certification programs.

Your first year with us:

• Within three months, you will complete onboarding and familiarise yourself with Preferred by Nature's mission and role. You will receive on‑the‑job training to transition smoothly into your role as an auditor and task manager. If you don't have certification experience, we will provide the necessary training related to FSC and PEFC / Rainforest Alliance Standards and give you the skills needed to audit these schemes in accordance with our high‑quality standards. You will participate in supervised audits as an observer or audit team member, assisting with logistics, planning, and report preparation. Build working relationships with colleagues in the European Supply Chain team and begin handling basic client inquiries about certification processes.
• Within six months, you will lead smaller‑scale audits under supervision while refining technical auditing skills and ensuring accurate reporting. Manage a portion of your audit tasks independently, including planning, scheduling, coordinating auditors, and maintaining the audit calendar. Strengthen your understanding of certification requirements and customer service to prepare for managing your own portfolio.
• Within one year, you will operate independently as a Lead Auditor, managing a full client portfolio and overseeing the complete certification process from start to finish. Take on the role of Task Manager for assigned clients, ensuring consistent quality, documentation accuracy, including preparation of costings and contracts in compliance with Preferred by Nature protocols. Provide support within the region, including mentoring junior auditors, contributing to service improvements, and supporting market development.

Important that you:

• Have a college or university degree and 2 years of professional experience in the forest products sector (timber processing, paper / packaging / printing industry, forestry) or related industries, ideally coupled with an understanding of environmental management systems and processes OR High school certificate and 4 years of professional experience in the forest products sector.
• Have good verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Are self‑motivated and can work independently from a home office, without direct supervision.
• Are comfortable with regular travel within the UK / Ireland (and occasionally internationally).
• Demonstrate high integrity, professionalism, and the ability to balance customer service with independent auditing responsibilities.
• Have previous auditing experience with FSC, PEFC, or other relevant forestry and agriculture schemes (preferred but not required; training will be provided).
• Have experience of digital tools in your work (word processing, spreadsheet and presentations).
• Networking skills within the relevant industry and a strong customer service mindset.
• Potential to be able to sell our services and help with building networks and marketing efforts.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Salary: £36,000 - £44,000 gross per annum (depending on skills and experience).
• Global work culture.
• High degree of flexibility – manage your own workload, work from home.
• An in‑depth onboarding and professional training to prepare / enhance your skills and knowledge to thrive in this role.
• Excellent opportunities for growth and professional development.
• A friendly, international team of colleagues, with a highly inclusive and friendly work environment.
• 28 days of vacation leave per year + national holidays.

How to apply:

If you feel you meet the requirements of the role, please submit your CV and cover letter (in English), including salary expectations by 05th January 2026 via the application form below. Application pre‑screening will be conducted during the application period. Preferred by Nature wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.