Sustainability Specialist

Overview

TITLE: Sustainability Specialist

RESPONSIBLE TO: Manager of Sustainability

DIVISION/DEPART: Member Advancement/Donated Goods Retail (DGR)

SUPERVISES: N/A

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

Open to local and remote applicants!

NOTE: This position is funded by grants awarded to Goodwill Industries International, Inc. (GII). The position’s establishment and continuance may be dependent upon on-going grant funding.

Responsibilities

Goodwill Industries International, Inc. (GII) is seeking a talented Sustainability Specialist to support a variety of projects, programs, and activities across the Goodwill network to scale positive environmental impact.
 
BASIC FUNCTION:
1. Support the GII Manager of Sustainability to catalyze sustainability across the Goodwill network and at GII

2. Advance network-wide sustainability projects by coordinating research and collaborations and offering first-class support to local Goodwills

SPECIFIC DUTIES:
A. Primary responsibility during first two years will focus on managing a textile circularity project in close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders

B. Drive GII’s efforts to assess, test, and scale opportunities that result in positive environmental impacts

C. Support GII partner relationships that foster sustainability within the Goodwill network

D. Coordinate peer-to-peer learning and experimentation opportunities across the Goodwill network

E. Facilitate and provide support to local Goodwills to foster and stimulate business practices and opportunities that advance sustainability goals

F.  Support GII Manager of Sustainability in managing projects and day-to-day tasks

G. Collaborate with GII team members to undertake pilots to advance GII’s sustainability strategy

H. Liaise with relevant third party supports as assigned

I.  Other duties as assigned

RELATIONSHIPS:
Internal: Daily contact with GII team members to coordinate projects and support activities

External: Frequent contact with external partners

Local Goodwills: Frequent contact with Goodwill CEOs and senior staff

Qualifications

SKILLS NEEDED:
A. Outstanding project management, organizational, and analytical skills

B. Ability to implement and oversee projects from inception to evaluation

C. Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively in a variety of forums, both verbally and in writing

D. Ability to prioritize amongst competing needs and opportunities

E. Outstanding interpersonal skills with diverse people and cultures

F.  Flexibility, open-mindedness, and agility to pivot and think outside the box

G. Must be well-versed in creating spreadsheets and other project management platforms as needed

H. Travel as necessary (15-20%) to carry out duties and responsibilities

EDUCATION:

Minimum of bachelor’s degree or combination of education and experience in one of the following areas: environmental science, environmental studies, or sustainable business.

EXPERIENCE:
Three or more years’ experience in a sustainability-related role in a professional setting.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple demands and projects.

Specific project management experience preferred.

DECISION MAKING:
Decision and recommendation making for developing systems, appropriate responses to identified needs, and consultative guidance to improve performance.

SUPERVISION:
Moderate with latitude given to the position in carrying out work assignments. Work is checked for accuracy and completeness.

PHYSICAL EFFORT:
Sedentary with lifting 10 pounds maximum and occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles or files. Walking and standing are required occasionally; long hours sitting at a desk and using a computer.

EMOTIONAL EFFORT:
Work environment usually hectic with periods of high stress. Must demonstrate a positive attitude in meeting daily challenges.