Waste Management Coordinator

Job Purpose

The Waste Management Coordinator is responsible for developing and implementing waste management strategies throughout the project lifecycle. This includes ensuring that waste is minimized, properly segregated, recycled, and disposed of in compliance with sustainability goals and regulatory standards. The Waste Management Coordinator will collaborate with contractors, project teams, and stakeholders to ensure that the project adheres to best practices for waste reduction, recycling, and disposal, ultimately helping the project meet its environmental sustainability targets.

Key Responsibilities

Waste Management Strategy Development:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive waste management plan that aligns with the project's sustainability goals.
• Identify opportunities for waste reduction, reuse, and recycling across all phases of the project, from design through to construction and operation.
• Set clear waste management targets, ensuring they align with local and international waste management standards.

Waste Segregation and Reduction:

• Promote waste segregation at the source, ensuring different waste streams (e.g., recyclables, hazardous waste, general waste) are properly separated.
• Implement measures to reduce the volume of waste produced during the construction process by optimizing material usage and improving construction methods.
• Ensure that waste reduction strategies are communicated and understood by all team members and contractors.

Waste Recycling and Disposal:

• Oversee the recycling and disposal of materials according to environmental best practices.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding waste disposal and recycling.
• Work with waste management contractors to ensure waste is properly recycled or disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner.

Waste Tracking and Reporting:

• Track and monitor waste generated on-site and report on quantities, types of waste, and recycling rates.
• Maintain accurate waste tracking records and provide regular reports to the Sustainability Manager and other stakeholders.
• Prepare waste management reports for project certification processes (e.g., LEED, BREEAM) and ensure all necessary documentation is in place for audits and compliance.

Collaboration with Contractors and Teams:

• Coordinate with contractors and subcontractors to ensure proper waste management practices are followed on-site.
• Provide training to project teams on best practices for waste reduction, recycling, and safe disposal.
• Advise contractors on sustainable procurement practices to reduce material waste during the construction phase.

Sustainability and Compliance:

• Ensure that waste management efforts align with the project's sustainability certifications and goals (e.g., LEED, BREEAM).
• Stay up-to-date on local waste regulations, sustainability certifications, and industry best practices to ensure compliance and continuous improvement in waste management efforts.
• Ensure the project complies with environmental standards and regulations related to waste management and disposal.

Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate risks related to waste management, such as improper disposal or contamination of recyclable materials.
• Develop contingency plans for handling hazardous waste and other challenging waste streams.

Continuous Improvement:

• Evaluate the effectiveness of the waste management plan and suggest improvements based on lessons learned during the project.
• Work with other departments to identify new technologies and practices that can improve waste management and sustainability efforts.
• Promote a culture of sustainability by encouraging innovative approaches to waste management across the project.

Skills

Required Qualifications:

Academic Credentials:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Sustainability Management, or a related field.
• Additional certifications in waste management or environmental management (e.g., ISO 14001) are a plus.

Professional Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in waste management or environmental sustainability roles, preferably in construction, infrastructure, or large-scale projects.
• Experience in managing waste streams, recycling initiatives, and waste reduction strategies.
• Familiarity with sustainability standards, waste management certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM), and environmental regulations.

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of waste management practices and technologies.
• Ability to track and report on waste data, with experience in preparing detailed waste management reports.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to train and guide teams on waste management best practices.
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to address challenges related to waste diversion and recycling.

Required Certifications and Accreditations:

Waste Management and Environmental Certifications:

• ISO 14001 - Environmental Management System Certification.
• LEED Green Associate or LEED AP - Certification in sustainable building practices.
• Waste Management Certification - Certification from a recognized waste management body (e.g., SWANA, UK Waste Management Certification).
• BREEAM Assessor - Certification for assessing sustainability in buildings, including waste management practices.

Other Relevant Certifications:

• Certified Sustainability Professional (CSP) - Certification for sustainability professionals.
• Hazardous Waste Management Certification - Certification for handling hazardous waste in compliance with regulations.

Additional Duties

• Continuously monitor industry developments in waste management technologies, recycling methods, and environmental regulations.
• Support in the development of sustainability reports for clients and regulatory bodies.
• Advocate for the reduction of construction waste through innovative design and construction methods.