Project Certification Expert

6 September 2024 Job vacancy

We are looking for a Project Certification Expert - Construction with Forest and Tree-based Material to join our Standards and Integrity team in a contractor relationship to revise the PEFC requirements for project certification.

PEFC chain of custody certification for specified projects, or ‘project certification’, enables construction companies to gain independent verification of the use of certified timber in a one-off project with a limited duration. Chain of custody certification is not always the most efficient option for short-term projects involving different, uncertified contractors. With PEFC project certification, companies can clearly and reliably demonstrate their decision to build with PEFC-certified timber.

Currently, the requirements for PEFC project certification are aligned with the former 2013 version of the PEFC Chain of Custody standard. The Project Certification Expert will play a critical role in revising the PEFC project certification requirements to bring them in line with the latest version of the PEFC Chain of Custody standard. 

These revised requirements will form part of a wider PEFC campaign to promote demand and uptake of PEFC project certification globally. 

Deadline for applications: 10 October 2024 

Responsibilities

1. Assess and analyse the current demand for, and engagement in, PEFC Project Certification by construction project managers worldwide.
2. Assess the understanding of PEFC project certification requirements by certification bodies worldwide. 
3. Engage with construction project managers and certification bodies to assess their needs, in order that an appropriately revised set of requirements that align with the current chain of custody requirements, which are implementable and auditable, and which will grow demand for project certification, can be produced. 
4. Carry out a gap assessment between the current PEFC project certification requirements and other existing initiatives for project certification. 
5. Provide a report and presentation on the findings from the first four activities above and provide recommendations for the revision of PEFC project certification requirements. 
6. Develop an initial draft proposal for the revised project certification requirements.
7. Coordinate project certification discussions with internal PEFC working groups and further develop the proposed revised requirements based on their input.
8. Liaise with the PEFC Construction Taskforce and other relevant groups within the PEFC alliance, as required, to gather their feedback and keep them updated on the process.
9. In collaboration with the PEFC Market Engagement team, help prepare communication and marketing materials and content and other communication tools, such as webinars.
10. Once the revised project certification requirements are finalised, develop training materials for various stakeholders to assist in the implementation of the requirements.

Profile

The ideal candidate would be possessing the following:

• A university degree in a relevant subject.
• A sound understanding of PEFC chain of custody and project certification, or other similar project certification schemes.
• International experience of working within the construction sector. 
• Excellent English language skills (written and verbal), other languages desirable.
• Good team player, excellent interpersonal skills with a proactive problem-solving approach to work and time-management skills.
• High level of precision and attention to detail, sense of responsibility, and flexibility while maintaining ability to work to a tight time schedule.

Formal conditions/requirements

• Workplace: remote, worldwide. Trips to Geneva (PEFC HQ) as required
• Regular availability and significant overlap with Switzerland, Geneva working hours.
• Remuneration to be agreed in line with the contractor’s proposal.

For questions please contact: technical@pefc.org

For applications, please use this link: https://podio.com/webforms/29862454/2480085 

Deadline for applications: 10 October 2024 

Only applications using the link above will be considered. Applications by email will not be considered.

Selection Process

Following initial applications, a call may be held to allow questions and clarifications.

Candidates who are deemed to meet the requirements will then be invited to submit an outline proposal with description of approach, outline timelines and outputs, associated costs and any required resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

PEFC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation, bringing together unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that drive innovation and success. We welcome and value individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our hiring decisions are based on competencies, qualifications, and organisational needs, ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all applicants and employees. We are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

About PEFC

PEFC is a leading global alliance of national forest certification systems. As an international non-profit, non-governmental organisation, we promote sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification. PEFC provides forest owners, from the large to the small, with a tool to demonstrate their responsible practices, while empowering companies to buy sustainably. The PEFC label enables consumers to recognise products originating from a PEFC-certified forest - a forest managed in line with the strictest environmental, social and economic requirements.