Senior Sustainability Specialist - Waste Reduction​/Promotional

The County of San Mateo is hiring a Senior Sustainability Specialist - Waste Reduction to lead programs focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Candidates should have experience in solid waste management, project management, and working with diverse communities. The role requires strong communication skills and a commitment to public service. This is a full-time position based in San Mateo, CA, with a salary range of $9,802.00 - $12,258.13 monthly.
Position: Senior Sustainability Specialist - Waste Reduction (Open and Promotional)
Salary : $9,802.00 - $12,258.13 Monthly Location :
County of San Mateo, CAJob Type: Full-Time Job Number: J080KD
epartment:
Office of Sustainability Opening Date: 05/19/2025

Closing Date: 6/5/2025 11:59 PM Pacific Bargaining Unit: 02 Description Are you passionate about finding new ways to reduce the amount of edible food going into the landfill and exploring the different ways compost and mulch can be used around the community? Would you like to be part of a team of enthusiastic sustainability professionals and help the County of San Mateo develop and implement programs to address critical sustainability issues around waste reduction and diversion in the community?

The County of San Mateo's Sustainability Department is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Senior Sustainability Specialist - Waste Reduction. We want "sustainability champions" with experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We are looking for candidates with excellent project management and communication skills to lead initiatives and help our employees, community partners, and community members take meaningful actions on sustainability.

We are committed to building a diverse staff and strongly encourage candidates from varied backgrounds to apply.

If you're passionate about sustainability, waste reduction, and public service, join us on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 12 PM for a live informational session about the Senior Sustainability Specialist - Waste Reduction position.

During this Linked In Live session, Gordon Tong, Waste Reduction Program Manager, will discuss the responsibilities of the role, the challenges and rewards of advancing waste reduction initiatives within a government framework, and what the County is looking for in qualified candidates. You'll also hear from Arlene Cahill, Talent Acquisition Recruiter, who will provide insights into the recruitment and selection process.

Register today to secure your spot!

The Ideal Candidate will:

Have an extensive background in the areas of solid waste management, recycling and composting, sustainability, public administration, and public policy.

Have knowledge and experience implementing various state recycling and composting mandates.

Have extensive project management experience, and possess strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills. Have experience leading multiple projects at different stages simultaneously, including tracking project budgets and deadlines, and working with coworkers collaboratively to achieve project outcomes.

Have experience managing contracts and collaborating with contractors to achieve project outcomes. Have experience leading diverse project teams and managing high-profile, complex programs and projects.

Have worked effectively with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Have a strong commitment to public service and serving the local community. Have initiative, drive, and follow through to ensure all necessary tasks are completed on time with little supervision.

Have strong oral and written communication skills, including experience with developing public-facing communications.

Have the ability to effectively communicate with both internal and external project stakeholders, and ensure timely and effective communication. Be comfortable in a fast-paced, people-focused environment.

About the Sustainability Department Formed in July 2014, as a part of the County Executive's Office, the Sustainability Department strives to improve the sustainability of the County's operations and the greater community through work in areas of renewable energy and energy efficiency, resource conservation, active transportation, climate resiliency, affordable housing, and greenhouse gas emission reductions.

Here at the Sustainability Department, we:

Are passionate about protecting and saving the environment, while serving our community.

Are compassionate and empathetic to the needs of our colleagues, community members, and stakeholders.

Are committed to increasing racial equity, diversity, and inclusion through our work. Actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase equity in our programs.

Value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all.

Take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting and hiring.

We know work isn't only about what you do; it's also about who you work for and with! The Department has a fun and supportive work environment that supports a work-life balance, including:

Flexible, hybrid work schedule opportunities Wellness classes and resources to promote a healthy mind and body Generous benefits package

Subsidy of up to $150 per month to cover the costs of public transit, vanpooling, carpooling, and bike and scooter share, or up to $480 per year for walking, biking, or carpooling to work At least 20 hours of training provided annually

A competitive benefits package is associated with this position. For…