Zero Waste Program Manager

Develop and manage comprehensive zero waste programs for municipalities, universities, sports venues, and corporate campuses to achieve zero waste to landfill through waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting initiatives. Conduct waste characterization studies, design behavior change campaigns, manage vendor relationships, and track diversion metrics. Engage stakeholders across the organization to build a culture of waste reduction and circular resource use.

Median salary: $88,000. Projected growth to 2033: 10% (faster than average) - driven by zero waste mandates and corporate sustainability commitments. Typical education: Bachelor's Degree.

At a glance

Median salary: $88,000
Entry-level: $55,000 - $70,000
Senior: $130,000+
Growth by 2033: 10% (faster than average) - driven by zero waste mandates and corporate sustainability commitments
Demand: Growing
Remote: Hybrid
Hours per week: 40-50 hours/week
Stress: Low

What you'd do

People interaction: Extensive
Team vs solo: 65% Team / 35% Solo
Client facing: Frequent
Impact visibility: High

How to get there

Minimum education: Bachelor's Degree
Licensing: No
Years to mid-career: 3-5 years
Years to senior: 7-10 years
Career switching: Easy
Typical student debt: $25,000 - $50,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

Zero Waste Certification Program Management (TRUE / LEED)
Waste Characterization Study Methodology
Composting & Organics Diversion Program Design
Recycling Market & Commodity Management
Behavior Change Campaign Design
Waste Diversion Metrics & Reporting

Soft skills

Program Management
Community Engagement
Written Communication
Stakeholder Facilitation
Change Management

Technical complexity: Moderate

Typical career path