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Junior Scientist (Solid Waste Specialist)
Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MNTAP)

Minneapolis, MN

Duties/Responsibilities
This position at the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MnTAP) provides technical assistance to a variety of businesses in Minnesota, particularly regarding solid waste and manages the State's online business reuse network, the Minnesota Materials Exchange. MnTAP is an outreach and assistance program at the University of Minnesota that helps Minnesota businesses develop and implement industry tailored solutions that prevent pollution at the source, maximize efficient use of resources, and reduce energy use and cost.
Some important responsibilities of this position include:
  • Conduct technical assistance in assigned areas including site visits
  • Development of business resources to promote reuse opportunities
  • Provide training to business and community leaders
  • Manage, maintain, and coordinate the Minnesota Materials Exchange


    • Essential Functions
    Provide Technical Assistance (solid waste assistance to businesses) (25 percent)
    - Provide complete, accurate and easily understood information about managing solid waste (reuse, recycling, composting, etc.) to facilities through trainings, phone calls/emails, site visits (drive to site locations), and possible intern project supervision
    - Maintain working knowledge of relevant technologies and regulations as well as internal/external programs and their activities related to solid waste management
    - Maintain resources (fact sheets, case studies, reference lists, web pages, etc.) relevant to solid waste
    - Implement targeting campaigns relevant to technical assistance area to engage facilities and promote MnTAP's services

    Manage the Minnesota Materials Exchange (25 percent)
    - Provide program coordination and develop effective program promotional materials
    - Conduct outreach campaign to increase business participation and develop partnerships
    - Produce measurable impacts to meeting set annual goals - waste/materials reused and/or cost savings, correlated to successful exchanges

    Develop and Maintain Internal and External Contacts and Coordination (15 percent)
    - Work with MPCA and other appropriate parties (e.g. CISRR) to take advantage of opportunities to collaborate, promote and expand Materials Exchange and reuse knowledge, services, and opportunities
    - Utilize relevant trade and professional or business association(s) to contribute to various projects
    - Where appropriate, provide internal support in initiatives related to experience, expertise or responsibilities, including for example, exchange service, solid waste source reduction, and/or web-based outreach strategies or materials
    - Participate and contribute to MnTAP team meetings, all-staff meetings and committee and/or workgroups as appropriate

    Serve as interim coordinator for new state trade association for reuse sector (depending on funding) (35 percent)
    - Work with reuse trade association steering committee to achieve a self-sustaining organization with assured funding
    - Develop and implement an overall marketing strategy for recruiting members and highlighting reuse in the State that includes social media, media relations, online communications, and other strategies
    - Assist with coordinating and planning events as directed by steering committee

    Required/Preferred Qualifications Minimum Required Qualifications
    -A Bachelor's degree with specialization in environmental science or work experience related to environmental issues, particularly solid waste, totaling at least four (4) years in combination.
    - MN Driver's License and/or the ability to travel independently throughout the State of Minnesota on a regular basis for job related business.(Job related travel is reimbursed at UMN established mileage rates)

    **Successful completion of a background check is required for this position

    Selection Criteria:
    -Demonstrated skills in oral and written communication
    -Demonstrated skills in developing promotional materials and/or campaigns
    -Demonstrated analytical and problem solving abilities
    -Demonstrated experience in developing relationships and building grass-roots programs
    -Demonstrated project management skills
    -2-3 years or more experience in providing environmental assistance, particularly regarding solid waste issues

    Job Close Date: Open Until Filled

    For more information visit employment.umn.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=105334

    Posted: 8/16/12

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