Zero Waste Project Coordinator

545 3rd Street near Route 13, Ithaca NY

Description

Zero Waste Project Coordinator Ithaca Farmers Market Nature of this position: The individual hired for this position will be responsible for facilitating a zero waste project for the Ithaca Farmers Market at their Steamboat Landing location (Third St). This is a part-time temporary position starting in March 2022 to the end of November 2022 requiring flexible hours most of which will be logged on weekends (accommodation can be made for a weekend off when needed). A total of about 500 hours will be required during this 8 month project (about 62 hours per month, 48 of which will be at Sat/Sun markets – or approx. 12 hours per week). Compensation depending on experience ranging from $17 to $20 per hour. This position is not benefits eligible. The position is supervised by the Ithaca Market Manager and will work in close collaboration with the members of the IFM Sustainability Committee as well as project partners: Dish Truck, CCE Tompkins Compost Education Program, and with the Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management Program. The Zero Waste project has the following goals: -understand the composition of waste generated at the IFM -research and trial strategies known to reduce waste in other public venues such as Dish Truck, Festival composting, CRT stations managed by volunteers -provide information to food vendors on best options for recyclable or compostable packaging -implement a set of procedures and educate customers and vendors on how to comply -set an example in the community of how to move towards zero waste -have a fully functional waste reduction system in place that is understood by vendors and customers The Project Coordinator will be responsible for: -conducting research on options for sustainable take away food packaging for food service (either recyclable or compostable), including plastic containers (1, 2 or 5) recyclable at the Tompkins County Recycling Center; and presenting this information, along with costs, to market food vendors; -implementing pre- and post-consumer composting strategies as directed by the CCETC compost educator and work with Master Composter Volunteers in the implementation of the composting project; -working with Dish Truck and food vendors to implement a pilot project where reusable washable food containers and utensils are provided to food vendors who give them to customers buying ready to eat food at market, and where customers return containers to a washing station; -monitoring implementation of waste management strategies and for make adjustments as needed; -recruiting volunteers and seasonal youth workers to assist with customer education and to help track the amount of waste diverted; -developing educational initiatives that help customers follow instructions related to recycling and composting, including signage, media outreach, and other such efforts that raise awareness of the importance of proper recycling and composting as strategies to reduce waste; -preparing monthly summaries of progress including the amount of waste diverted. Qualifications desired: -interest in waste reduction as a strategy for environmental protection -evidence of personal commitment to waste reduction -proficient at researching product information and presenting the pros and cons of each -experience recruiting and managing volunteers and teen workers -strong interpersonal communication skills that motivate vendors and customers to do the right thing -experience developing educational messages and print materials in a way that is easily visually comprehended -experience working with guidance from committees or seeking expertise when needed -ability to work on weekends and flexible hours -ability to lift up to 30 lbs on occasion; some accommodation can be provided (for example, a wagon to move waste bins, etc) -ability to stand and walk easily within market structure Apply: -submit a short resume (1-2 pages) describing relevant experience along with a cover letter that states what motivates you to help IFM achieve its Zero Waste Goal -deadline: February 13, 2022 -interviews: Week of February 20, 2022 -start date ASAP