Sustainability Specialist – Solid Waste

The City of Bloomington is seeking an individual to assist in the implementation, and coordination of the City’s solid waste program, with an emphasis on community engagement and education related to program initiatives that increase waste diversion, reuse, and waste prevention to meet the City’s goals and objectives.  

CITY VALUES & EXPECTATIONS

• Models and contributes to a positive work environment, culture of communication, engagement and safety
• Communicates effectively and respectfully with employees and the general public, including but not limited to those of diverse racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Works cooperatively as a member of a team; develops and maintains effective working relationships with diverse coworkers and community members; consistently brings a high level of self-awareness and empathy to all personal interactions
• Embraces the City’s shared values and contributes towards accomplishing the City’s vision and goals by being creative, innovative, continuously learning, and communicating clearly

Examples of Duties

Solid Waste Activities: 

• Assist with research, analysis, reporting, performance measurement, data documentation, presentations, policy development, and correspondence related to the solid waste program
• Assist with oversight of the city’s solid waste and associated ordinances to ensure requirements are met
• Assist with addressing and resolving issues, concerns, or complaints regarding solid waste collection activities and ensure communication between all parties
• Identify and apply for grants, funds, or other related support for solid waste initiatives

Special Projects:

• Lead work with multifamily and commercial properties to develop and increase recycling and organics collection and procure solid waste related grants
• Coordinate internal solid waste collection services and education at City facilities and parks
• Increase participation in the City’s residential organics recycling program through creation and implementation of community-based outreach and education
• Create and promote reuse and waste prevention activities and events, including components of the City’s Bulky Item Management Program

Education and Outreach:

• Develop, coordinate, and attend events, make presentations, and distribute information to groups or individuals, including City staff, about key topics in solid waste diversion initiatives, reuse and waste prevention
• Build relationships and trust with community members, especially those who have been historically underserved
• Work with staff and community partners to create population-specific engagement opportunities, print materials, videos, social media campaigns, surveys, and listening sessions to engage and educate different stakeholders
• Develop tools to track and evaluate the effectiveness of related outreach and education programs
• Provide community feedback and prepare written and oral reports, program descriptions, recommendations for action, and other communications to City staff, elected and appointed officials, industry groups, and the public

Other:

• Attend committee or task force meetings as assigned
• Keep supervisor informed and make recommendations on critical issues
• Assist in other areas of the department or in other departments as needed on projects

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Ability to maintain effective work relationships with supervisors, coworkers, residents, property owners/managers, community and advocacy groups, and other agencies
• Ability to plan and deliver community events
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends for community events
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills with people from all cultures and backgrounds
• Ability to ensure programs align with the mission, core values, and objectives of the City’s strategic plan
• Ability to manage multiple programs and projects in an efficient, effective, and cooperative manner
• Ability to collect, process, and analyze data
• Ability to present simple and complex information in a public setting and provide technical knowledge of the subject matter
• Ability to maintain up-to-date knowledge of solid waste management best practices, including recycling, organics recycling, waste prevention and reuse 
• Ability to adhere and comply with confidentiality and data practices
• Ability to work independently or in a team setting
• Obtain and maintain any needed training necessary for the duties assigned

Minimum/Desirable Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor’s Degree in environmental studies, sustainability, communications, public administration, public relations, or a related field; OR four years of experience in the above fields
• Three years of experience in community outreach, working in sales, or higher-level customer service
• Two years of experience in the coordination and delivery of community events
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, specific Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Valid driver’s license

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to speak a second language, in addition to English that has a recognized presence in the community. (Spanish, Somali, Vietnamese, Chinese Mandarin, Cambodian, etc.) 
• One year of experience in a similar position focused on solid waste programming
• Experience with ArcGIS
• Experience with the operations of city government and relationships to other levels of government
• Experience in concept, design, administration, and marketing of community-based social marketing programs
• Experience with relationship building and public engagement with communities who have been historically underserved

Supplemental Information

SUPERVISION OF OTHERS

This position does not supervise others.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $34.69 – $36.80 Hourly

2023 Full Salary Range: $34.69 – $46.25 Hourly

Full-Time; Non-Exempt; Non-Union; Benefits Eligible

The City of Bloomington is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse workforce that reflects the community we serve. Applicants who are black, indigenous or persons of color are encouraged to apply. We also encourage women, veterans, members of the LGBTQIA community, and individuals with disabilities to apply.