Zero Waste Specialist (Working Title)

Job Summary

Performs administrative and operational duties of average to difficult complexity in support of all facets of the City's zero waste program and projects including outreach field work, technical assistance, inspections, on-site education, data gathering and analysis, report writing, and working at community recycling events.

Note: The actual title of this classification is Zero Waste Assistant. The working title of Zero Waste Specialist is pending City Council and Personnel Board approval tentatively scheduled to be effective July 1, 2024.

Representative Duties

Performs responsible administrative assignments in the development, implementation, and monitoring of City zero waste programs and projects. Compiles information and conducts research, analysis, and special studies.

Collaborates, develops, and disseminates community outreach, public participation, and special event materials to inform residents, businesses, and schools about recycling, composting and zero waste programs and initiatives. Conducts public education and outreach activities, including frequent field appointments and inspections.

Participates in the development and implementation of zero waste education programs, related community events, and a public awareness plan for use throughout the community.

Responds to inquiries, complaints, and requests for information regarding program activities and policies. Provides assistance and direction to residential, commercial, school, and multi-unit building customers. Makes referrals to appropriate resources, as necessary.

Interprets and applies rules, regulations, and policies. Prepares and maintains a variety of records, reports, letters, press releases, and other correspondence.

Liaises with external government agencies and internal divisions and departments within the City to discuss and share information and evaluation of all phases of recycling.

Serves as a point of contact with outside agencies, businesses, community groups, and schools on assigned programs and projects.

Keeps abreast of current developments, trends, and practices in the field of zero waste and resource recovery and recycling. Researches and reports proposed legislative changes that are of interest to the City to department and division staff.

Provides instruction and coordination to volunteers, temporary staff, and contract staff assigned to support programmatic and project activities.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Knowledge of:

Principles of public relations

Public outreach techniques

Effective customer service techniques

Business writing techniques

Basic principles and practices of public administration

Basic quantitative and management analysis techniques

Principles of program development, implementation, and evaluation

Applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations, including solid waste reduction laws in California

Ability to:

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Prepare and present effective oral and written presentations

Make oral presentations to a variety of customers, including large groups of people

Conduct public education and outreach events

Provide exemplary customer service

Gather data, provide summary and analysis, and make recommendations

Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports

Develop informational and educational materials

Interpret and explain policies, rules and regulations, and applicable laws

Organize and coordinate multiple tasks

Lead and coordinate the work of others

Learn and keep abreast of current developments in area(s) of specialty

Act as a resource for departmental concerns

Exercise good judgment and perform job functions independently with minimal supervision

Skill in:

Using a personal computer and applicable software applications

Maintaining effective, collaborative, and positive working relationships with City employees and the general public

Working effectively with individuals from diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications

Option A:

Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in environmental science, environmental studies, environmental sustainability, zero waste, or a related field.

Experience: One year of recent, paid experience in zero waste or solid waste programs with an emphasis in community outreach and/or education.

Option B:

Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Two years of recent, paid experience in zero waste or solid waste programs with an emphasis in community outreach and/or education.

Option C:

Education: An associate degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Three years of recent, paid experience in zero waste or solid waste programs with an emphasis in community outreach and/or education.

Desirable Qualifications:

Bilingual in English and Spanish

Licenses and Certificates:

Possession of a valid class C driver license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.

Supplemental Information

How to Apply:

Applicants must submit a completed on-line City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline. If you do not submit your on-line application by the filing deadline, you will not be considered for this position.

Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process.

If you would like for your education to be considered, you must attach a copy of your college level transcripts or diploma to your online application. Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts.

All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than the filing deadline. Failure to do so may result in your application being evaluated without the education being considered.

Selection Process:

All applicants must submit clear, concise and complete information regarding your work history and qualifications for the position. All applicants will be reviewed and only those applicants determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process.

Testing may consist of a combination of any of the following and is subject to change as needs dictate:

Training and Experience Evaluation

Oral Interview

If three or more qualified City employees apply and pass the examination, a promotional list will be established in addition to an open-competitive list. If fewer than three qualified City employees pass the examination, the appointing authority, in accordance with the City's civil service rules and regulations, can decline to use a promotional list, in which case a promotional list will not be established for this position.

Inclusion & Diversity Statement

The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a highly talented workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact.

The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us!

Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only).

Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination.