Zero Waste Coordinator

Southern New Hampshire University is a team of innovators. World changers. Individuals who believe in progress with purpose. Since 1932, our people-centered strategy has defined us — and helped us grow a team that now serves over 180,000 learners worldwide.

Our mission to transform lives is made possible by talented people who bring diverse industry experience, backgrounds and skills to the university. And today, we're ready to expand our reach. All we need is you.

The opportunity

Who is an Eco Rep and what will my role provide?

Eco Reps are student leaders who support the Office of Sustainability's mission by promoting sustainable practices, engaging in the campus community, and contributing to sustainability programs and initiatives. This position provides hands-on experience in project management, communication, leadership, and problem-solving while supporting students to build valuable professional skills and advance sustainability efforts at SNHU.

Job Responsibilities

Program Implementation & Outreach

• Lead and support zero waste campaigns (e.g., recycling education, composting awareness, waste audits)
• Facilitate peer-to-peer engagement through tabling, workshops, and classroom/club presentations
• Develop inclusive, accessible educational materials aligned with campus and local waste guidelines
• Promote behavior change strategies that encourage reduction, reuse, and proper sorting

Event Support & Waste Reduction

• Coordinate zero waste efforts at campus events (e.g., waste stations, signage, volunteer support)
• Partner with event organizers to implement sustainable practices (reusables, composting, donation)
• Track and report waste diversion outcomes from events

Data Collection & Impact Tracking

• Assist with waste audits and data collection on recycling, compost, and landfill streams
• Maintain simple tracking tools (spreadsheets, dashboards) to measure program impact
• Contribute to reports highlighting participation, diversion rates, and engagement metrics

Collaboration & Leadership

• Collaborate with campus partners (Dining, Facilities, Student Organizations, ERGs) to expand zero waste initiatives
• Support recruitment and coordination of volunteers for sustainability events
• Serve as a visible ambassador for sustainability, modeling zero waste behaviors

Qualifications

• Enrolled in SNHU classes
• Current student in good academic standing
• Interest in sustainability, environmental studies, or related field
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Organized, reliable, and comfortable engaging with diverse audiences
• Familiarity with recycling/composting practices (or willingness to learn)
• Able to support colleagues with attending or working at other events is mandatory- this includes Good Stuff (Winter and last three weeks of classes/week after classes end), Arboretum After Dark in October, Campus Race to Zero Waste

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with event planning, outreach, or peer education
• Knowledge of local/state waste guidelines (e.g., NH recycling/composting practices)
• Experience with data tracking tools (Ex: Excel, Google Sheets)
• Driver’s license or ability to get one

Learning Outcomes

Through this role, the student will:

• Develop skills in program coordination, facilitation, and peer education
• Build competency in behavior change strategies and sustainability communication
• Gain experience with data tracking, reporting, and impact measurement
• Strengthen leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills

Zero Waste Eco Rep Learning Goals

By the end of this position, this student leader will be able to:

Waste Diversion & Resource Management

• Explain the principles of waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and circular economy practices.
• Identify common waste streams on campus and recommend strategies to improve diversion and reduce landfill waste.
• Assess waste management practices and recognize opportunities for operational improvement.

Data Collection & Evaluation

• Collect, track, and analyze waste diversion data using established procedures.
• Interpret waste audit findings and use data to support recommendations and decision-making.
• Communicate waste reduction metrics and program outcomes to stakeholders.

Environmental Education

• Educate peers about proper waste sorting and sustainable consumption practices.
• Design and deliver engaging educational outreach that increases awareness of zero-waste initiatives.
• Apply behavior change principles to encourage participation in waste reduction programs.

Program Operations

• Support the planning and implementation of recycling, composting, surplus, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Demonstrate an understanding of logistics involved in campus waste management programs.
• Maintain organized records, inventories, and program materials.

Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking

• Evaluate contamination issues and propose solutions to improve diversion rates.
• Apply systems-thinking approaches to understand the connections between purchasing, consumption, waste generation, and disposal.
• Develop recommendations that balance environmental impact, operational feasibility, and community engagement.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate effectively with Facilities, Dining Services, Residence Life, student organizations, and other campus partners.
• Build professional relationships that support sustainability goals and program success.
• Facilitate conversations that promote shared responsibility for waste reduction.

NACE Competency Alignment

This position supports development in:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Critical Thinking
• Leadership
• Professionalism
• Equity & Inclusion
• Technology
• Career & Self-Development

Work Schedule/Hours

10 hours a week

Typically M-F, some nights and weekends depending on events running in the office

Team meeting every other week

Additional Information

Resume-Ready Outcomes

Students in this role will gain experience in:

• Sustainability program implementation
• Waste audits and environmental data collection
• Recycling and composting operations
• Public speaking and peer education
• Event sustainability planning
• Program assessment and reporting
• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management
• Project management and problem-solving

We believe real innovation comes from inclusion - where different experiences, perspectives and talents are celebrated. So if you're wondering whether SNHU is right for you, take the leap and apply. You might be just the person we're looking for.

Compensation

The hourly pay range for this position is $13.00 - $15.00. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations.