Job Description

Recycling Manager

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Recycling Manager.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States Division Mississipi Polymer Science Institute Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade

E12

Posting Close Date July 24, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants
This position is grant funded for one year with the potential of follow on funding for a permanent position.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the
United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The
University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).


The Recycling Manager is
responsible for developing long term material testing strategies and outreach
associated with Mississippi Polymer Institute’s (MPI) recycling and re-use
activities, from compost ability to plastic re-use. This role is central to
advancing our sustainability mission by demonstrating the efficacy of
bioplastics as a feedstock for composting, diverting food waste, and reducing
plastic pollution in commercial and industrial settings. The position requires the Recycling
Manager to work independently to analyze complex data and make high level
decisions that accurately reflect ROI for external companies. The Recycling
Manager is actively involved in developing, implementing, managing, and
educating across all program areas and must be proactive, resourceful, and
capable of working effectively at all levels of the organization and with external
businesses.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and large commercial equipment.
2. Analyze large and complex datasets with statistical models and software.
3. Operate and maintain the composting and polymer recycling lab facilities both as part of client projects and outreach activities.
4. Produce professional technical reports for clients.
5. Fluency in federal regulation regarding soil, compost, heavy metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
6. Identify and conduct ISO accredited laboratory testing related to compostable materials.
7. Spectrometry analysis of materials by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
8. Chemical testing of materials by Total Organic Carbon Analysis and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen analysis
9. Ecotoxicity testing method OECD 208
10. Total volatile solids testing of finished compost.
11. Design, manage, and conduct informative outreach initiatives focused on sustainability: composting, bioplastics, recycling, and re-using. Includes assisting and teaching modules for Sustainability certificate courses offered by MPI.
12. Research, develop, write, and submit grant proposals to secure ongoing funding for the MPI Recycling Program.
13. Supervise student workers or volunteers.
14. Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong ability to plan, organize, and oversee programs from concept to execution, including managing staff, volunteers, and timeline
• Ability to design educational content, workshops, and outreach materials for diverse audiences, including students, industry and community members
• Demonstrated experience building partnerships with organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to diverse groups, facilitate workshops, and engage stakeholders
• Working knowledge of federal regulations regarding FDA, ASTM, and ISO.
• Proficiency in researching funding opportunities, writing grant proposals, and managing grant reporting requirements
• Ability to track program outcomes, analyze data, and use results to improve programming and demonstrate commercial and university impact and ROI
• Independent contributor with ease managing multiple projects, maintaining accurate records, and meeting deadlines
• Ability to work in dynamic environments and adapt programming based on community needs and available resources

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern
Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing
students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students
in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the
Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We
are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of
the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in
polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing
language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national
leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,
nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter
fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such
as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of
business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by
producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of
excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation
accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our
student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and
persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.