Job Description

Posting number: 25-2600142

Department: Office of Operations

Division: Collections

Job classification: Director of Waste Management Operations

Posting type: Open or Regular

Categories: Administration, Sanitation, Waste Management

Summary

Under the general direction of the Director of Operations or designee, performs advanced administrative, operational, and supervisory work overseeing the City’s Solid Waste Division. Responsibilities include managing scalehouse operations, collection services, and disposal/haul-away activities ensuring efficient, compliant, and customer-focused delivery. This role also supports sustainability initiatives and continuous improvement efforts. Serves as primary liaison to the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) on behalf of the Director ensuring regulatory compliance, coordinating joint initiatives and representing the City interests in matters involving waste management and water quality protection. Plays a critical role in implementing operational strategies, monitoring performance metrics, supporting budget oversight and enhancing overall service delivery.

Supervision Received: Works under the general direction of the Director of Operations or designee.

Supervision Exercised: Provides direct supervision to scalehouse staff, collection personnel and other assigned employees; may also provide functional oversight to contractors and vendors.

Examples of duties

• Oversees daily operations of the Solid Waste Division including collection, recycling, scalehouse, and disposal activities.
• Supervises staff, assigns work, and ensures compliance with safety protocols, operational standards and regulatory requirements.
• Monitors operational performance, service delivery, and route efficiency; implements improvements to enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensures proper operation and coordination of scalehouse functions including accurate fee application, revenue collection, reconciliation and reporting.
• Maintains proper internal controls related to billing, fee schedules and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations (e.g. EPA, DEEP).
• Serves as liaison to WPCA, coordinating administrative and operational activities as directed ensuring alignment with City policies and operations.
• Identifies opportunities to improve coordination between wastewater and solid waste operations where appropriate.
• Supports compliance related to wastewater regulations and collaborative operational initiatives.
• Responds to public inquiries, complaints and service issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Coordinates with City departments, vendors and contractors to resolve operational issues.
• Supports public education and outreach efforts related to waste reduction and environmental programs.
• Leads process improvements initiatives and evaluates service delivery models for operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develops and manages the department’s annual budget; monitors expenditures and identifies costs efficiencies.
• Supports and promotes sustainability initiatives, including recycling, composting and waste diversion programs.
• Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of municipal solid waste operations, recycling systems and environmental services.
• Thorough knowledge of applicable environmental laws, regulations and compliance requirements dealing with solid waste, recycling and hazardous waste.
• Knowledge of the public health aspects of solid waste collection and processing.
• Ability to assign, supervise and evaluate the work of subordinate employees.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret operational and financial data.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, employees and the public.
• Ability to plan, develop and conduct educational workshops and programs on recycling.
• Ability to make oral and written presentations in a clear, concise and understandable form.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices, waste diversion strategies and environmental programs.
• Ability to implement process improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational/reporting systems.

Supplemental information

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Environmental Science, Business Administration, or a related field and eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in waste management, environmental services or public works, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory capacity; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays as required.

> Within one year of appointment, must obtain the following certifications:

1. State of Connecticut Solid Waste Landfill and Transfer Station certification,
2. Hazardous Waste Management Certification
3. CT DEEP Solid Waste Facility Operator Certification

SCOPE EXAMINATION: The examination will consist of an evaluation of the applicant’s education, training, and experience as submitted on the application and Training and Experience Questionnaire. The evaluation will be based on the relevance and depth of the applicant’s background as it relates to the duties and minimum qualifications of the position.

There will be no written examination for this position. Applicants are therefore advised to provide complete and detailed information regarding their education, work history, and any specialized training or certifications relevant to the requirements of the position.