Recycling Coordinator

City of Chattanooga•Chattanooga, TN

2d•$55,085 - $66,549•Onsite

About The Position

Incumbents will play a critical role in planning, implementing, and monitoring the City’s recycling programs. This position is responsible for overseeing the operation of recycling centers, managing education and outreach initiatives, coordinating special event recycling services, implementing sustainable programs, and reducing contamination in the recycling stream. The ideal candidate will be passionate about sustainability, have strong project management skills, and demonstrate a commitment to serving the public with integrity.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Public Administration, or any combination of training in related fields with a minimum of one (1) year of experience in solid waste, recycling, sustainability, or public service program management; or any combination of equivalent experience and education.
Valid Driver’s License
Knowledge of recycling systems, contamination issues, and community engagement strategies.
Ability to work collaboratively with internal departments, contractors, and the public.
Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
Familiarity with waste auditing, MRF operations, or composting programs.
Experience working with GIS, Routeware, or other solid waste data platforms.

Responsibilities

Oversee the daily operations and staffing of the City’s five recycling centers and three refuse centers.
Monitor site compliance with City policies, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
Coordinate logistics and recycling services for special events at parks and public venues.
Work closely with contractors, vendors, and internal departments to ensure service continuity.
Handle other administrative duties as assigned within the division.
Develop and implement citywide public education campaigns to increase recycling participation and awareness.
Conduct presentations, workshops, and community events focused on recycling, composting, glass, and zero-waste practices.
Partner with schools, neighborhood associations, and advisory committees to build grassroots recycling champions.
Monitor recycling contamination trends through site inspections, audits, and resident feedback.
Support the City’s code enforcement team by assisting with “oops” tag protocols, bin removal procedures, and educational interventions.
Utilize data from third-party audits (e.g., Westrock) to adjust outreach and operational strategies.
Track and report key performance indicators, including recycling tonnage, participation rates, and contamination levels.
Maintain accurate records and generate monthly reports for departmental leadership and City stakeholders.
Assist with budgeting needs for recycling equipment, staffing, and program expansion.
Support the implementation of the City’s Recycling Strategic Plan and Climate Action Plan goals.
Identify new opportunities for material recovery, composting, and circular economy partnerships.
Recommend policy updates and participate in long-term sustainability planning.
Must meet regular attendance requirements.
Must be able to maintain good interpersonal relationships with staff, co-workers, managers and citizens.
Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.
Performs other duties as assigned.