UT Zero Waste, Resource Recovery – Internship Team Member

Job Title

UT Zero Waste, Resource Recovery – Internship Team Member

All hours will be scheduled at 10 hours per week. The internship is a non‑exempt, part‑time position that will begin immediately and is expected to continue until June 30, 2027. The internship is located in Austin, TX and open to all applicants, including work‑study and non‑work‑study candidates.

• Zero Waste Quality Control (4 students):

  Learn best practices for waste auditing, program maintenance, and data collection by evaluating campus waste streams and supporting waste diversion efforts. Responsibilities may include waste audits, compost quality control checks, Zero Waste Building System coordination, implementation and follow‑up, and supporting new waste reduction projects.

• Zero Waste Implementation & Engagement (4 students):

  Learn best practices for implementing and promoting zero waste programs across campus. Responsibilities may include supporting Zero Waste Events and Zero Waste Workplace programs, conducting consultations and trainings, managing various zero waste service requests, supporting the ZWEco Supply Store, and engaging building occupants through outreach and education.

• Social Media & Outreach (2 students):

  This position has a separate application – search “UT Zero Waste, Resource Recovery – Social Media & Outreach” in Workday to apply.

• Possess experience in sustainability and/or willingness to learn about the inner workings of recycling, composting, solid waste, and surplus.
• Communicate professionally and represent the department in a positive way when interacting with faculty, staff, and students.
• Consult with faculty and staff before waste events to provide guidance and support.
• Demonstrate punctuality, organization, adaptability, and comfort working outdoors.
• Be comfortable working independently but also enjoy being part of a team.
• Engage and educate peers and staff to motivate positive sustainability practices.
• Attend and participate in team meetings, both in‑person and remotely.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Must currently be a UT student.
• Show enthusiasm for sustainability practices and value waste reduction.
• Punctual, organized, and adaptable.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly and work outdoors.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

• Availability and interest in working for the full academic year (fall and spring). Full‑year candidates will receive priority consideration.
• Previous involvement in sustainability‑related coursework, employment, volunteer work, or student organizations.
• Comfort riding an electric bike.
• Possess a valid TX driver’s license.

• All weather conditions, extreme temperatures, chemical fumes, standard office, biohazards/chemicals, electrical/mechanical.
• Keyboard, manual dexterity, climbing of stairs and ladders.
• Lifting and moving. Exposure to adverse weather conditions and hazards such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and loud noises.
• Will lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds. May twist, grasp, pull, and bend.

10 hours – Monday‑Friday – 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Occasionally, project work may occur after 5:00 p.m. and on weekends with prior notice.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal‑opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Salary Range: $13.00+ depending on qualifications.