Role Responsibilities

As a Solid Waste Planner II, the role will involve:

Supporting the development of long-term waste management strategies for municipalities, including research, assessment, and evaluation of alternative waste diversion and disposal technologies and programs.
Assisting with planning and approval processes for various waste management facilities.
Working with the New England Waste Sector Lead to grow HDR’s waste business through industry networking, project management, and strategic planning.
Preparing project reports, memorandums, and presentations tailored to the needs and expectations of the target audience.
Building and maintaining client relationships through marketing efforts and proposal development for new projects.
Supporting strategic communications and stakeholder engagement across multiple project types.
Leading and coordinating projects across the United States in collaboration with HDR offices, internal teams, and strategic partners.
Managing project activities in line with HDR’s internal procedures and project management processes.
Collaborating with HDR’s broader national Solid Waste team and contributing to new and diverse projects across the company’s network.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Urban Planning, or a closely related discipline.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in recycling, composting, sustainability, or waste management within a municipality, regulatory agency, service provider, or consulting environment.
Knowledge of circular economy and Extended Producer Responsibility concepts.
Understanding of environmental justice principles.
Knowledge of solid waste management systems.
Familiarity with environmental and municipal policy processes.
Awareness of current waste management trends, including recycling, composting, reuse, circular economy, product stewardship, and their links to sustainable practices.
Strong research, analytical, and interpretation skills for problem-solving.
Knowledge of TRUE Advisor and/or SWANA Zero Waste would be an advantage.
Understanding of New England’s waste systems and key stakeholders.
Preference may be given to candidates located in the Mid-Atlantic region, including Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, DC.

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or a closely related field.
At least 5 years of experience in planning and design.
AICP certification is preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Strong experience in graphics and report document production.
Experience using GIS.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong leadership ability and capacity to work effectively in a team environment.
Willingness and ability to travel when required.
Commitment to actively contributing to an employee-owned workplace culture.