Job Title: Operations Specialist
Location: Carlsbad, California (Hybrid: Office + Fieldwork)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $65,000/annual
Position Overview
We’re seeking an Operations Specialist to support daily waste and recycling operations at client properties. This hybrid role combines fieldwork and office-based responsibilities, with an emphasis on coordination, reporting, equipment management, and client communication. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that waste management programs run smoothly and meet sustainability goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Field Operations:
- Conduct site visits at commercial properties including shopping centers, office parks, and industrial complexes
- Inspect waste and recycling areas; take photos and detailed notes
- Install recycling signage and basic monitoring equipment
- Heavy lifting/maneuvering required (up to 50lbs or more)
- Educate businesses on waste laws and best practices
- Maintain and occasionally transport small quantities of hazardous waste
- Technology & Container Management:
- Monitor and troubleshoot waste tracking technology
- Coordinate replacement or repair of broken containers
- Schedule extra pickups and address service issues (e.g., missed pickups, overfilled dumpsters)
- Reporting & Administration:
- Prepare written reports summarizing site inspections and client waste data
- Update databases, upload images, and maintain accurate service records
- Communicate with clients, vendors, and internal team to schedule services
- Additional Duties:
- Conduct evening waste audits with team members (occasionally)
- Travel outside the region or state as needed for special projects or audits
- Represent the company at client events or industry conferences
Who You Are
- Detail-oriented and organized
- Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- A strong communicator who enjoys working with people
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to create reports, case studies, slide decks, presentations, memos, and emails.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently
- Passionate about sustainability and committed to zero waste principles
- Comfortable navigating both fieldwork and administrative tasks
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree or similar education preferred
- 3+ years of experience in waste management
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
- Good writing and organizational skills
- Interest in sustainability, project management, logistics, or occupational safety
- Familiarity of zero waste strategies and circular economy principles
- Clean driving record
- Ability to pass a background check
- Willingness to travel occasionally, including locally or overnight, for field research, conferences, waste audits, and other related activities.
Benefits & Perks
- Starting salary of $65,000 with opportunity for annual raises based on performance
- Flexible hybrid schedule with 2 in-office days; 2 field days; 1 work-from-home day (Friday) per week
- 100% company-paid medical insurance. (Please note: vision and dental coverage are not included at this time.)
- Partially paid parental leave: Primary caregivers are eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave; Secondary caregivers are eligible for up to 6 weeks of paid parental leave; and Flexible return-to-work options are available
- Personal Time Off (PTO), with extra vacation days added based on tenure: 14 days of vacation and personal time; 7 sick days; and 12 paid holidays
- Paid professional development (conferences, certifications, workshops)
- Collaborative, mission-driven team culture
- Be a part of something great: a 1% for the Planet member company, giving 1% of revenue to environmental nonprofits, a certified Green Business in California (Innovator Level), active member of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, member of CRRA, member of USGBC, and member of Surfrider Foundation San Diego Chapter.
- Fun team activities such as team birthday lunch celebrations, holiday dinner, Earth Day volunteering, and conferences.
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Waste Not Consulting is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, valuing diverse perspectives and life experiences. Waste Not prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Waste Not will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.