Zero Waste Specialist II

Step into a role where your work directly shapes a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable Castro Valley. As a Zero Waste Specialist II, you’ll help bring CVSan’s award-winning Zero Waste vision to life by developing innovative recycling, organics, and waste-prevention programs that make a measurable community impact. From leading key initiatives aligned with the Zero Waste Strategic Plan to engaging residents, schools, and local businesses in hands-on education about the 4Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot—you’ll be part of a mission-driven team that turns big environmental goals into real-world progress.

This is a role for someone who loves variety and thrives on collaboration. One day you may be brainstorming a new direction for reusables or designing eye-catching educational materials; the next, you’re coordinating a high-energy public event like Recycles Day or working with contractors to improve service delivery across Castro Valley. Supported by a close-knit, values-driven agency that prizes innovation and teamwork, you’ll enjoy a dynamic blend of fieldwork, program coordination, community education, and problem-solving that keeps every day engaging and purposeful.

The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, adaptable professional who brings both creativity and analytical thinking to environmental work. They are energized by community engagement, passionate about sustainability, and skilled at transforming complex recycling and organics concepts into clear, compelling messages. Whether building partnerships with local businesses, supporting large scale community events, or developing educational tools and campaigns, this person thrives in a role where teamwork, initiative, and innovation are valued every day.

They’re equally comfortable in the field and at a desk, one moment conducting technical assistance or evaluating program performance, the next managing grants and tracking expenditures, preparing reports, or collaborating with contractors and regulatory partners. With strong communication skills and a solutions-oriented mindset, the ideal candidate will embody CVSan’s culture of service, integrity, and environmental stewardship while helping advance the District’s zero waste goals.

Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: One (1) year of experience in developing and implementing solid waste recycle programs or a field providing the required knowledge and skills, preferably in a public agency setting. Experience in developing print media using software programs such as Adobe Design Suite. Experience in an educational or communications setting is highly desirable.

Education: Graduation from a four (4) year college of university

with course work in environmental studies, business or public administration, natural science, or a related field to the work.

Certifications and Licenses: Must possess a valid California Class C driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record. Must possess or obtain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED, and First Aid certificates within a time specified by CVSan. Must register with the Department of Justice Livescan fingerprinting program within a time period specified by CVSan.