Lead Specialist, Environmental Sustainability; Zero Waste

Lead Specialist, Environmental Sustainability (Zero Waste)

Position Title:

Lead Specialist, Environmental Sustainability (Zero Waste) (Full-Time Regular) (Classified)

Requisition #: req
8278

Department:
Environmental Services

Location:

222 LAPORTE

Benefit Category:
Classified (Non-CBU) View Classifications & Benefits

Employment Type:

Full-Time Regular

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Annual Salary Range: $68,402. (Salaries are paid biweekly)

Annual Anticipated Hiring Range: $84,000. (Salaries are paid biweekly)

Selection Process:
Final date to receive applications is 3:00 p.m. MT on 1/16/2026.

The City of Fort Collins is a bias‑conscious employer. We ask that you please avoid the use of photos when submitting a resume and/or an application for employment. You will receive an email acknowledgment when you have successfully submitted an application. Your completed application will be forwarded to the hiring manager. You will be notified if you are selected for further testing or interviews.

Please keep your contact information up‑to‑date. The status of your application will be updated in your applicant profile. Post‑offer background check required (Background checks are considered in relation to the responsibilities and requirements of the position).

While the City of Fort Collins offers many remote and/or hybrid positions, all remote or hybrid work must be performed in the state of Colorado.

• Medical, dental, vision (for self, spouse, children) – eligible on the 1st of the month following date of hire
• Paid vacation, paid holidays, sick leave, and additional one‑time bank of 40 PTO hours for new, full‑time, Classified and Unclassified Management hires
• Retirement + company contributions – after 6 month probation period and immediate vesting
• Flexibility spending:
  Medical expenses FSA, dependent FSA or both
• Employee Assistance Program: counseling, legal, financial assistance
• Life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability
• Wellness program, workout facilities
• Employee/family onsite health clinic
• Learning and development opportunities at all levels in the organization with opportunities for career mobility

The Environmental Services Department seeks an experienced project manager with a proven track record in waste reduction, recycling, and composting to join a dynamic team of sustainability practitioners within the Sustainability Services Area. The role requires a commitment to environmental stewardship, resilience, and Zero Waste strategies pragmatically delivered as part of the Service Area’s integrated purpose to create and transform human‑centered systems, support basic needs, create meaningful value, and progress toward a thriving and engaged community.

With particular emphasis on implementing Zero Waste strategy and supporting municipal sustainability and adaptation initiatives, this Environmental Sustainability Lead Specialist position is expected to lead interdepartmental and cross‑functional teams to support policy development and strategy to advance City Council’s adopted goals and priorities. Additionally, this position manages sustainability planning, implementation projects, and reporting processes by fostering collaboration across the City organization and engaging with the Fort Collins community.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively facilitate community and staff engagement and must be able to simplify technical information for diverse audiences. Extensive experience with data management and processing, including data assessment, analysis, interpretation, and storytelling to inform decision‑making is preferred.

• Develops plans and policies regarding environmental sustainability and collaborates with other staff and consultants regarding issues.
• Develops and manages complex projects.
• Supports the development and implementation of equitable public outreach and engagement.
• Prepares Council agenda materials; participates in City Council meetings regarding resolutions, ordinances, and programs.
• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepares data and annual reports and may conduct periodic…