Program Education Specialist; Waste Reduction

Waste Reduction Coordinator

The purpose of this job is to administer waste reduction policies and support compliance while delivering education and outreach to students, residents, and businesses. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, implementing waste reduction policies and ordinances, coordinating compliance efforts, leading education and outreach initiatives, and performing additional tasks as assigned.

Bachelor's degree in the environmental field, public relations, education, journalism, or marketing with two years of related work experience required; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position. Must possess a valid driver's license. Must have or have the ability to complete appropriate waste reduction training (SWANA, TRUE, or other) within the first six (6) months of employment.

The following duties are normal for this job. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Administers and ensures compliance with the Commercial Recycling Ordinance Material Management Policy for all Governmental Buildings and Facilities and Public Spaces, and Glass Bottle Reduction Program.

Collaborates with the Planning Department during plan reviews to support Commercial Recycling Ordinance compliance.

Works with ACC Code Enforcement to complete recycling violation transmittals and support enforcement actions to ensure appropriate and timely processing within the court system.

Works closely with permitted downtown event organizers, food vendors, and contractors to ensure compliance with event waste reduction requirements and proper implementation of composting and recycling practices. Provides education, technical assistance, and guidance on acceptable materials, contamination prevention, and sustainable event practices.

Coordinates collection bins for special event permit holders and maintains event bins, signage, compostable service ware guidance materials, and related supplies to support successful event waste diversion efforts.

Coordinates with the Collections Division to ensure timely delivery, placement, servicing, and removal of recycling, composting, and landfill collection containers for permitted special events.

Communicates operational needs and event logistics to support efficient collection and processing of materials generated during events.

Conducts post-event waste sorts and contamination audits to evaluate proper material separation, identify opportunities for improved education or operational processes, and implement improvements as needed.

Works with private haulers, attends permitted hauler meetings, and coordinates truck ride-alongs with Collections staff to assess compliance with the Commercial Recycling Ordinance.

Maintains documentation, records, and data related to education and outreach programs, including updates to relevant sections of the website, and prepares and submits monthly and quarterly reports to leadership and advisory groups.

Coordinates and provides technical assistance to Departmental Material Management Coordinators, including organizing quarterly meetings and sharing updates on waste-related issues.

Assists Waste Reduction Coordinator in developing advertising and outreach campaigns, including media releases, newsletters, social media, website updates, and other public relations efforts.

Assists with revising and updating policies and ordinances related to commercial recycling, material management, and waste reduction programs.

Coordinates and assists with special projects and events (e.g., UGA Ditch the Dumpster, Twilight, Move Out Day Collection, etc.)

Assists with public education and outreach efforts related to the Solid Waste Department's waste reduction programs (reduce, reuse, recycle, and composting in both the residential and commercial sectors) including tours, classroom lessons, workshops, and presentations.

Provides waste reduction infrastructure support to local schools.

Exercises functional supervision over recycling Waste Reduction Division interns, in the absence of the Waste Reduction Coordinator.

Assists with preparing budget proposals, grant applications, and award submissions related to the Waste Reduction Division's educational programming, and supports research efforts such as surveys, polls, and focus groups.

Assists Waste Reduction Coordinator with tours of solid waste facilities (recycling, CHaRM, composting, and landfill facilities) for school groups, college classes, and the general public.

Assists Waste Reduction Coordinator with the ACC Green School program and school recycling programs.

Attends conferences, seminars, and classes to remain abreast of current developments in waste reduction/public relations.

Presents at professional conferences, seminars, and workshops to highlight and promote the work of the Solid Waste Department and Waste Reduction Division.

Assists with research (focus…