Zero Waste Operations Specialist

University of Tennessee - Knoxville, TN

Part-time

Knoxville, TN

Educational Services

About the position

The Zero Waste Operations Specialist at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville plays a crucial role in advancing the university's sustainability initiatives, particularly in the area of zero waste management. This position involves collaborating closely with the Recycling Supervisor to identify and implement process improvements, develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), and effectively communicate changes to staff. The specialist will be responsible for creating educational content and conducting training sessions to onboard student workers, part-time employees, and AmeriCorps members, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to the university's zero waste goals. In addition to training, the specialist will assist the Recycling Supervisor in supervising team members and volunteers, providing guidance on safe equipment operation and maintenance procedures. A significant aspect of the role includes creating and distributing educational materials at sporting events to promote zero waste practices, thereby enhancing community engagement and awareness. The specialist will also develop and maintain partnerships with local organizations, such as Keep Knoxville Beautiful and Westrock, to further advance zero waste initiatives in the Knoxville area. This includes overseeing the reception of sustainable materials, ensuring effective waste diversion strategies, and coordinating with relevant personnel and equipment to achieve project goals. The role requires collaboration with various campus organizations to promote joint zero waste efforts and orchestrate successful 'Zero-Waste Game Days', which involves logistics planning and volunteer management. The position may also require the specialist to assist with quality control and the sorting and disposal of recyclable materials, as well as operating various truck features for waste collection. Overall, the Zero Waste Operations Specialist is integral to fostering a culture of sustainability at the University of Tennessee, ensuring that waste management practices align with the university's commitment to environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Recycling Supervisor to identify process improvements and develop SOPs.
• Create content and conduct training for onboarding student workers, part-time employees, and AmeriCorps members.
• Assist Recycling Supervisor in training and supervising team members and volunteers on safe equipment operation and safety standards.
• Create and distribute educational materials at sporting events to promote zero waste practices.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with community organizations to advance zero waste initiatives.
• Assist Recycling Supervisor with overseeing reception of sustainable materials and ensuring effective waste diversion strategies.
• Follow up with stakeholders to support the execution of work and ensure deliverables are completed on schedule.
• Collaborate with campus organizations to promote joint zero waste efforts.
• Help orchestrate 'Zero-Waste Game Days' as a driver or zone leader, including pregame setup and post-game operations.
• Coordinate waste collection and personnel for weekend and evening events.
• Assist with quality control, organization, sorting, intake, and disposal of recyclable materials.
• Operate truck features to collect, compact, and maneuver waste.

Requirements

• High School Diploma
• At least 1-year of experience operating heavy equipment
• Valid Driver's License
• Class B (or higher) Commercial Driver License with Passenger (P) endorsement or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment.
• Knowledge of recycling, Universal Waste, composting, and sustainability laws
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Strong time management and problem-solving skills
• Customer service skills
• Computer and smartphone skills for email and ordering parts
• Ability to perform moderately strenuous work activities, including lifting for multiple hours
• Ability to work independently for up to 8 hours
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with diverse audiences.