Nomination Process

National Organic Standards Board Call for Nominations

Status: NOSB Call for Nominations is OPEN
Submission Deadline: Dec. 28, 2026 [60 days after FRN publishes] 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Organic Program (NOP) seeks applications of qualified individuals for three seats on the National Organic Standards Board (Board/NOSB) to begin in January 2027. 

Current openings:

  • One individual who owns or operates an organic farming operation or employee of such individual;
  • One individual who represents a public interest or consumer interest group; and 
  • One individual with expertise in the fields of toxicology, ecology, or biochemistry.

Member Duties and Time Commitment:

  • Serves a five-year term representing specific sectors of the organic community. 
  • Attends new member training at the beginning of their term (~1.5 days + travel time if in person).
  • Attends annual ethics training (Virtual, ~1 hour).
  • Participates in monthly subcommittee conference calls (~3 - 6 hours per month) + prep time before each call (variable depending on number of projects). Additional time if member chairs a subcommittee.
  • Reads and reviews petitions to amend the National List, and Technical Reports related to National List substances, to inform their voting. (Time commitment varies.)
  • Reviews –three to five substances each year that are due to sunset from the National List. (Time commitment varies depending on number of substances and complexity.)
  • Writes discussion papers and proposals on materials and other topics (e.g., new standards, clarification of existing standards). (Time commitment varies.)
  • Review and analyze public comments in advance of two NOSB meetings to prepare for presentations, discussion, and voting (8 - 24 hours per meeting).
  • Attends two public NOSB meetings per year, one virtual and one in-person, typically held at the end of April and October. Time commitment: Approximately 5 - 7 days per meeting. This includes two 5-hour virtual oral comment webinars, a 2-hour pre-meeting administrative meeting, a 3-day meeting + 2 travel days for in-person meetings. 
    • Travel expenses to attend in-person meetings (lodging, flights, and daily per diem) are covered by the USDA.

Applications for qualified candidates will also be accepted to fill unexpected future vacancies for any NOSB seats.

How to Apply:

Written applications must include:

Applications may also include:

  • Cover letter (optional)
  • Letters of reference (optional but encouraged). Reference letters will be accepted after application deadline.

Electronic submissions are preferred and should be emailed to Andrew.Malone@usda.gov. You may also mail your application materials: USDA-AMS-NOP, 1400 Independence Avenue S.W., Room 2642-S., Ag Stop 0268, Washington, DC 20250-0268. 

Additional information

The NOSB is a Federal Advisory Committee comprised of a varied group of individuals from the organic community that considers and makes recommendations on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and other issues that involve the production, handling, and processing of USDA certified organic products. Members are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture and in accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990. The Board shall be comprised of 15 members: 

  • Four shall be individuals who own or operate an organic farming operation, or employees of such individuals;
  • Two shall be individuals who own or operate an organic handling operation, or employees of such individuals;
  • One shall be an individual who owns or operates a retail establishment with significant trade in organic products, or employees of such individuals;
  • Three shall be individuals with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation;
  • Three shall be individuals who represent public interest or consumer interest groups;
  • One shall be an individual with expertise in the fields of toxicology, ecology, or biochemistry; and
  • One shall be an individual who is a certifying agent.

 

Additional Questions?
Contact: nosb@usda.gov