Solid Waste Planner II

Role Responsibilities

As a Solid Waste Planner II
, the role will involve:

• Supporting the development of long-term waste management strategies for municipalities, including research, assessment, and evaluation of alternative waste diversion and disposal technologies and programs.
• Assisting with planning and approval processes for various waste management facilities.
• Working with the New England Waste Sector Lead to grow HDR’s waste business through industry networking, project management, and strategic planning.
• Preparing project reports, memorandums, and presentations tailored to the needs and expectations of the target audience.
• Building and maintaining client relationships through marketing efforts and proposal development for new projects.
• Supporting strategic communications and stakeholder engagement across multiple project types.
• Leading and coordinating projects across the United States in collaboration with HDR offices, internal teams, and strategic partners.
• Managing project activities in line with HDR’s internal procedures and project management processes.
• Collaborating with HDR’s broader national Solid Waste team and contributing to new and diverse projects across the company’s network.

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Urban Planning, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in recycling, composting, sustainability, or waste management within a municipality, regulatory agency, service provider, or consulting environment.
• Knowledge of circular economy and Extended Producer Responsibility concepts.
• Understanding of environmental justice principles.
• Knowledge of solid waste management systems.
• Familiarity with environmental and municipal policy processes.
• Awareness of current waste management trends, including recycling, composting, reuse, circular economy, product stewardship, and their links to sustainable practices.
• Strong research, analytical, and interpretation skills for problem-solving.
• Knowledge of TRUE Advisor and/or SWANA Zero Waste would be an advantage.
• Understanding of New England’s waste systems and key stakeholders.
• Preference may be given to candidates located in the Mid-Atlantic region, including Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, DC.

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or a closely related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in planning and design.
• AICP certification is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong experience in graphics and report document production.
• Experience using GIS.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong leadership ability and capacity to work effectively in a team environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel when required.
• Commitment to actively contributing to an employee-owned workplace culture.