Outreach Field Specialist

West Valley Recycles, a Waste Connections company, is looking for a full time Outreach Field Specialist to join our team in San Jose, CA.

The Outreach Field Specialist plays a key role in supporting West Valley's commercial and multi-family diversion goals by engaging directly with customers in the field. This individual will focus on customer education, contamination reduction, and site-level service assessments. This is a growth-oriented role ideal for a go-getter who’s eager to learn the industry, contribute to sustainable outcomes, and take on increasing responsibility over time.

Starting wage $40.50 per hour, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the company. Being out in the field is expected about 90% of the time. The schedule will depend on the season, but will be daytime Monday through Friday.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Conducts in-person visits to commercial and multi-family properties to provide education on proper recycling and organics separation.
• Identifies and reports contamination, overflow, and improper set-out issues in the field; provides customer guidance or recommends operational changes.
• Completes data collection and documentation from field visits using company software or mobile devices.
• Communicates with site contacts to ensure understanding of local and state recycling mandates (e.g., SB 1383, AB 341, AB 1826).
• Supports outreach campaigns by delivering materials, posting signage, and conducting follow-ups.
• Works closely with operations, customer service, and education teams to support cohesive customer experience and service optimization.
• Builds positive relationships with customers and community members through professional, respectful, and solutions-oriented interactions.
• Attends and assists with community events, site audits, and workshops as needed.
• Follows all company safety protocols and maintains field readiness, including proper use of PPE.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Frequently required to walk, stand, and carry outreach materials outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and navigate apartment complexes, parking lots, and business centers.
• Comfortable working independently in the field for extended periods.
• Ability to drive daily to customer locations throughout the West Valley service area (mileage reimbursed if using personal vehicle).

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ year experience in customer service, education, environmental outreach, or field work.
• Bilingual preferred.
• Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to engage respectfully and effectively with diverse communities.
• Highly self-motivated and dependable with strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Comfortable learning and using mobile apps, Microsoft Office Suite, and/or Salesforce platforms.

Education / Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Communication, Public Policy, or related field preferred—but not required if candidate has relevant experience.

Why Join Us?

This is more than just a job, it’s a steppingstone to a growing, mission-driven industry. As part of the West Valley outreach team, you’ll help shape the future of waste reduction and resource recovery in your community. You’ll have the chance to grow your skills, make an impact, and learn alongside a team that’s passionate about doing good work (and having fun while doing it).

We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future".

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.