Zero Waste Specialist

Position Overview The Zero Waste Specialist will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of George Washington University's zero waste and circular economy initiatives. This role is responsible for managing campus-wide waste diversion, reuse, composting, recycling, and materials management programs while supporting the university's broader sustainability and operational goals. The position will oversee strategic planning and operational execution of key initiatives, including Green Move-Out and Reuse Market, while serving as a primary liaison between the Office of Sustainability and campus operational partners, such as Facilities, Custodial Services, GW Dining, Campus Living & Residential Education, Grounds, and external community organizations. The Specialist will also supervise a team of student employees and oversee the day-to-day work of a Sustainability Coordinator. This role requires strong program management, operational coordination, stakeholder engagement, student and staff supervision, and data tracking capabilities to support GW's sustainability commitments and long-term zero waste goals. Key Responsibilities Zero Waste Program Operations Lead coordination and execution of GW's Green Move-Out and Reuse Market programs, including volunteer recruitment and planning timelines for collections, logistics, collection locations, communication, and operational workflows. Lead the management and implementation of GW's composting program in partnership with external vendors and campus partners. Lead the development of campus-wide standards for waste management and implement uniform bins and consistent signage. Lead e-waste, cardboard, and other recycling programs in partnership with external vendors and campus partners. Coordinate reuse, donation, and waste diversion activities in partnership with campus departments and external community organizations. Monitor program operations during peak periods and resolve day-to-day operational issues. Staff and Contractor Supervision Supervise the day-to-day work of a Sustainability Coordinator overseeing custodial-related initiatives. Supervise, train, and coordinate student employees supporting Zero Waste, Green Move-Out, composting, and Reuse Market activities. Manage student schedules, task assignments, and day-to-day oversight. Support onboarding and knowledge transfer for returning and new student staff. Support contractors and external vendors with program coordination and data tracking. Stakeholder and Partner Coordination Lead monthly meetings with and serve as a point of contact for internal partners, including Facilities, Custodial Services, GW Dining, Campus Living & Residential Education, Grounds, and more. Coordinate with external partners and vendors who may be contracted to support waste management on campus. Manage complex schedules and optimize collection routes with external nonprofit and community partners supporting donation and reuse efforts. Communicate program logistics and expectations to relevant stakeholders to ensure seamless program execution. Design and lead regular training for front-line staff related to waste management and diversion. Data Tracking and Reporting Track participation, diversion weights, and operational KPI's related to all programs and provide quarterly and annual impact reports. Maintain organized records and documentation to support reporting, program evaluation, and continuity. Administrative and Program Management Lead purchasing, inventory tracking, and coordination of supplies and equipment required. Oversee outreach and communications related to Green Move-Out and Zero Waste initiatives, including updating and deploying signage and informational materials. Scope and propose budgets for the operation of zero waste programs. Perform other related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position. Minimum Qualifications Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 5 years of relevant professional experience, or, a Master's degree or higher in a relevant area of study plus 3 years of relevant professional experience. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Preferred Qualifications Experience in sustainability programs, waste management, program coordination, or campus operations. Demonstrated experience coordinating projects with multiple stakeholders. Experience supervising or coordinating student employees or volunteers. Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills. Reliable, proactive, and responsive. Ability to adapt and be flexible while completing assigned tasks. Ability to work independently and manage high-volume activity during peak operational periods. Experience working in higher education sustainability, campus operations, facilities management, or environmental programs. Familiarity with zero waste strategies, circular economy principles, composting systems, recycling operations, and materials management programs. Experience managing or supporting large-scale operational programs involving multiple stakeholders and vendors. Knowledge of sustainability reporting frameworks such as STARS or other higher education sustainability benchmarking systems. Experience working collaboratively with custodial, dining, housing, procurement, grounds, or facilities operations teams. Experience developing and implementing waste reduction, reuse, or behavior change initiatives. Experience supervising student employees, interns, volunteers, or program staff. Experience creating program budgets. Experience supporting sustainability-related communications, outreach campaigns, or educational initiatives. Familiarity with operational data tracking, diversion metrics, and sustainability performance reporting. Desired Skills & Attributes Strong leadership and relationship-building skills with the ability to work effectively across operational and student-facing environments. Strong project management and organizational skills with attention to detail. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to navigate complex operational environments and manage competing priorities. Collaborative, adaptable, and solutions-oriented approach to program implementation. Passion for sustainability, waste reduction, circular economy initiatives, and campus engagement. Ability to work independently while contributing to a highly collaborative team environment. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and communicate program performance data. Comfortable working during high-volume operational periods and supporting occasional evening or weekend activities during major campus programs or events. Hiring Range $77,171.81 - $100,287.24 GW Staff Approach to Pay How is pay for new employees determined at GW? Healthcare Benefits GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit Job Details Campus Location: Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C. College/School/Department: Division of Safety and Operation Family: Safety and Facilities Sub-Family: Sustainability Stream: Individual Contributor Level: Level 3 Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time Hours Per Week: 40 Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm Will this job require the employee to work on site?: Yes Employee Onsite Status: Hybrid Telework: Yes Required Background Check: Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search Special Instructions to Applicants: Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status Internal Applicants Only?: No Posting Number: S014424 Job Open Date: 08/25/2026 Background Screening: Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire. EEO Statement: The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr George Washington University