ZERO WASTE COMMUNITY OUTREACH INTERN
DEPARTMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE
CITY OF WORCESTER
The City of Worcester seeks applicants for the position of Zero Waste Community Outreach Intern for the Department of Sustainably and Resilience. Under the direction of the Zero Waste Coordinator (ZWC), the Zero Waste Community Outreach Intern will work on the Zero Waste Program to expand public engagement efforts, develop educational materials, and facilitate meaningful conversations about sustainability with a focus on waste-related topics. The intern will regularly attend community events to distribute information, engage with residents, and support outreach initiatives related to Zero Waste Program and the Zero Waste Master Plan (working independently most of the time). Additionally, this individual will assist other DSR staff with sustainability content research and writing. This position is part-time and temporary and will take place during the summer of 2025. The schedule will include evening and weekend shifts to attend community events.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:
- Independently represent DSR at community events (8-20 hours per week) during the summer, such as farmer’s markets, Out-to-Lunch, and National Night Out. About 20-30% of the time events will take place in the evenings and/or on weekends.
- Receive training from the Zero Waste Coordinator and other DSR staff.
- Set up and break down tables and tents; set out outreach materials.
- Engage residents in discussion on sustainability, particularly trash and recycling, with table activities and informational brochures.
- Assist with the distribution of the city’s Trash and Recycling Guide to different municipal locations, community organizations, and more.
- Assist the ZWC with community engagement for the Zero Waste Master Plan.
- Help coordinate and implement zero waste events, which includes deliver and set up of recycling/compost bins.
- Monitor bins to minimize contamination and remove recycling/compost bins after event.
SECONDARY ELEMENTS:
- Assist with organizing community cleanup events with the City Manager’s Clean Team.
- Assist with DSR’s online content which includes review and content edit for the Green Worcester dashboard.
- Draft blog posts for the Green Worcester dashboard related to Sustainability and Zero Waste.
- Develop project summary documents.
- Support other DSR initiatives as needed.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Understanding of and strong interest in the values of the Green Worcester Sustainability and Resilience Strategic Plan.
- Knowledge of the principles of circular economy and interest in sustainability.
- Ability to effectively communicate and engage with community members and diverse populations.
- Strong time management skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain professionalism under all circumstances.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to work outdoors under different weather conditions.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary.
- Ability to travel to events and transport materials to and from events.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and internet.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Working toward obtaining or having a Bachelor’s Degree.
- One (1) year of experience in environmental studies, zero waste, community planning, or other related fields.
- One (1) year of experience working directly with the public.
- Proficiency with Canva or similar digital content design software.
- Proficiency with Constant Contact or other outreach channels.
- Worcester resident.
SALARY: $17.50 hourly, part-time, temporary position.
To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2025, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.