Sustainability Specialist

The City of Renton is accepting applications for the position of Sustainability Specialist in the Public Works Sustainability & Solid Waste section. This position is part-time working 20 hours per week within the Monday-Friday workweek and is telework eligible (up to 2 days working from home).

The Sustainability Specialist performs analytical and administrative tasks in the support of sustainability and solid waste management programs. The Public Works Sustainability & Solid Waste section sets sustainability and carbon solution goals through planning, project implementation, partnerships, and community engagement. The section has a broad mandate that includes promoting and supporting projects that address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, reductions, zero waste of resources, renewable energy use, resource conservations and stewardship, and sustainable infrastructure. Our team works collaboratively within Public Works and across City Departments to advance change.

Working for the City of Renton comes with an excellent benefits package pro-rated for regular part-time employees, including:

• Deferred compensation with the City contributing 3% of the employee‘s salary.
• VEBA Plan with the City contributing 1% of the employee‘s salary.
• Medical, dental, vision and life insurance at affordable rates
• Paid leave for vacation, sick, eleven holidays and two ‘personal‘ holidays a year
• State of Washington Department of Retirement Systems Public Employee Retirement Systems (PERS) plan enrollment

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Develop strategies, plans, and programs for enhanced and improved innovations that address sustainability and climate resiliency across subject areas.
• Identify, plan, and organize public works projects that focus on, and support sustainability, environmental conservation, and climate resiliency.
• Coordinate and promote education/outreach programs, activities and events related to sustainability; implement program goals and objectives.
• Create or maintain plans or other documents related to sustainability projects.
• Coordinate engagement with internal and external stakeholders to develop program and project awareness; align strategies, plans, and actions to create buy-in and drive outcomes.
• Research new programs and activities related to sustainability.
• Assist in the design and production of education and outreach materials such as brochures, flyers, posters and reports.
• Facilitate efforts to improve City and community environmental practices including waste prevention and materials management, water and energy conservation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other conservation programs.
• Respond to questions and concerns from local agencies, organizations, and community members; meet with residents, professional associations and community groups as needed.
• Represent the City at various community events to promote waste reduction, recycling and other sustainability initiatives.
• Assist in the development and implementation of communication plans and strategies that provide public education and convey the City‘s commitment to sustainability, resilient infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.
• Collect, interpret and analyze data used to manage and evaluate sustainability programs; prepare reports and make recommendations for improvement and innovation.
• Assist in negotiation and management of contracts (programs, consultant services, etc.).
• Prepare correspondence, agenda bills, ordinances, resolutions, agenda bills and related documents for administrative and legislative review.
• Research, analyze, and implement local, state, and federal rules and regulations.
• Conduct field inspections as needed, prepare required reports; assure permit and other requirements are in compliance; resolve customer complaints.
• Interact with appropriate federal, state, local and private agencies as necessary.
• Contribute to an environment of teamwork and respect.
• Foster a culture of equity and inclusion by recognizing the diverse needs and perspectives of groups and individuals.
• Remain current with relevant technological advancements as it relates to field.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• May be assigned to support critical city priorities during disasters or other emergencies.

To review a complete job description please review: Class Specifications | Sustainability Specialist | Class Spec Details (governmentjobs.com)

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:

• 2 years of college-level course work in environmental studies or a related discipline.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in sustainability education/outreach.
• Or 3 years relevant education and experience.
• Valid driver‘s license.
• Successful passing of a required driving record check.
• Successful passing of a required background check.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Drive to offsite locations to perform essential functions.
• Move throughout City facilities and buildings.
• Operate a computer and other office equipment.
• Communicate with City employees and residents.
• Lift or move items weighing up to 20 pounds on occasion.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed in an office environment and outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Work evening and/or weekend hours as needed.
• Noise level in the office is moderately quiet and out in the field is moderately loud.
• Night meetings may be required.

Telework Program:
The City of Renton supports workers performing in a hybrid capacity (partial telework/in-office) where job responsibilities can be performed remotely. This position may be eligible for a telework arrangement, up to 2 days remote, based on the operational needs of the City and specific Department. Regardless of job title or telework arrangement, City of Renton employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.