ZERO WASTE COORDINATOR

ZERO WASTE COORDINATOR
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Zero Waste Coordinator for the Sustainability and Resilience Department. Under the direction of the Director of Sustainability Projects, the position assists with implementation of Zero Waste goals of the Green Worcester Sustainability and Resilience Strategic Plan (GWP). This position will also work closely with the Department of Public Works & Parks.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Coordinate the development and implementation of a Zero Waste Master Plan to promote waste prevention, materials reuse, and diversion of food waste, as well as construction and demolition waste.
• Prepare public educational and outreach materials on the topics of zero waste actions in different formats and platforms. Attend community events to educate the public about the city's zero waste initiatives.
• Initiate and/or expand new programs to divert waste and increase awareness of recycling requirements to ensure compliance with state and local laws, in collaboration with residents, public schools, institutions, businesses and community groups.
• Pursue applicable MassDEP and other grant opportunities to advance GWO zero waste goals.
• Prepare and submit required annual MassDEP reports on solid waste, recycling rates, etc.
• Organize and participate in waste collection events.
• Lead student projects on topics of interest, including developing and piloting behavior change campaigns to promote waste reduction and reduce contamination of recyclables.
• Review and propose changes to the policies, practices, ordinances and laws governing the collection, recycling and disposal of household solid waste.
• Attend training, conferences, seminars, and meetings to remain knowledgeable of sustainable resource management practices.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles, practices and objectives of different aspects of waste reduction and management
• Ability to read, interpret, understand and apply laws, rules and regulations, policies, procedures, specifications and guidelines related to integrated solid waste systems and programs
• Ability to understand and communicate complex data analysis and complex sustainability issues in a simple manner to garner credibility and support
• Proven strong project planning and management, organizational, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work and communicate with diverse populations, maintaining professional and helpful attitude while educating stakeholders on resolving issues
• Ability to examine data from different primary and secondary data sources and create meaningful analyses and determine solutions
• Willingness and ability to learn and think creatively
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Ability to travel to off-site locations
• Regular on-site attendance is required

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate's Degree of Environmental Science, Sustainability, Natural Resources, Public Health, or related discipline, or equivalent education.
• Three (3) years of experience in the field of waste management or coordination of a similar program.
• Two (2) years of experience in public outreach or educational campaigns of a related nature.
• Strong computer skills and knowledge of standard productivity software (MS-Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, etc.)
• Valid Driver's License

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree of Environmental Science, Sustainability, Natural Resources, Public Health, or related discipline, or equivalent education.
• Five (5) years of experience in the field of solid waste management or coordination, or a similar program.
• Relevant work experience in the New England area.

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2025, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.