Associate Solid Waste Planner
Apply NowCompany: Oregon Metro
Location: Portland, OR 97229
Description:
Salary: $76,835.20 - $103,064.00 Annually
Location : Portland, OR
Job Type: Full Time
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-0344-WPES-3
Department: Property & Environmental Svcs
Opening Date: 04/08/2025
Closing Date: 4/22/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Position Summary
Hello, we're Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.
The Waste Prevention and Environmental Services (WPES) department is looking for an Associate Solid Waste Planner to support and help implement strategies to improve garbage and recycling services within the region. This position will join a team of planners that develops, coordinates, and manages complex waste reduction projects and initiatives that support the goals and principles of the and
This position will play a key role in supporting program development, strategic planning, engagement, and evaluation efforts to advance a variety of regional priorities including improving business food waste prevention and recovery, garbage and recycling services for underserved communities, and reuse and repair opportunities. This position will also collaborate with internal team and external partners to support policies and programs that will result in a more equitable solid waste system.
Metro's WPES department plans and oversees the region's garbage and recycling system - working with local communities, government and industry partners to protect the environment, conserve resources, and ensure that our garbage and recycling system works for everyone. WPES is committed to leading with equity in everything we do. We are guided by the 2030 Regional Waste Plan, which is focused on advancing racial equity, reducing the environmental and health impacts of products, maintaining and improving our garbage and recycling system, and rectifying the historic and ongoing inequities of that system on communities of color and others in our region.
This position is ideal for a team-oriented person that is passionate about waste reduction, project management and contributing to important public services. If you thrive in an environment that requires collaboration and partnership development with a broad range of stakeholders, this role is for you!
As the Associate Solid Waste Planner, you will
Attributes for success
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
At Metro, we strive to cultivate diversity, advance equity, and practice inclusion in all of our work. This means attracting and empowering a workforce that is inclusive of a broad range of human qualities. Workplace diversity is both a moral imperative and a business strength, essential to providing quality support and services to our region. Metro's goal is to hire, develop and retain highly skilled and talented individuals across all departments and programs who best reflect the diversity of our community.
TO QUALIFY
We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific in your application materials on how your background is relevant.
Minimum qualifications
If this statement is true for you, then you may be ineligible to apply
If you were terminated for cause during any employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, you may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.
Hybrid Telework
At this time, this position is designated as "hybrid telework." You will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. This position must report to work in person at the Metro Regional Center every Tuesday, with additional days as needed. This position must also attend all staff meetings and other required team gatherings in person. The manager will work with you to identify a schedule that balances the operational needs of the department and your needs. Employees must reside in Oregon or Washington to work at Metro
Like to have qualifications
You do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider them when identifying the most qualified candidates. Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience, including the military, or life experience that are relevant for this position.
SCREENING AND EVALUATION
The application packet: The application packet consists of the following required documents. Please ensure that you upload these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.
The selection process: We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows. The selection process is subject to change.
COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND REPRESENTATON
The full-salary range for this position is step 1. $76,835.20 to step 7. $103,064.00. However, unless a candidate's qualifications justify, based on the requirements and Metro's internal equity review process, the appointment will likely be made between step 1. $76,835.20 to the equity range step 4. $89,024.00.
This position is not eligible for overtime and is represented by AFSCME 3580. It is classified as an Associate Solid Waste classification.
Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific duties and responsibilities of the positions.
Questions?
Recruiter:Carrie Gundermann
Email:
Additional Information
Equal employment opportunity
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made, or any other status protected by law.
Accommodation
Metro will gladly provide a reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.
Veterans' preference
Under Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans' preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.
Hybrid Telework
Positions designated as "hybrid telework," meaning you will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. The designation of Hybrid Telework may be subject to change at a future time. All employees must reside in Oregon or Washington; Metro cannot support ongoing telework from other locations.
Pay equity at Metro
No matter who you are or where you work at Metro, you deserve to be paid fairly for the work you do.Every worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of your gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics. has established processes and conducts routine pay equity reviews as part of the hiring process to ensure compliance with the 2017 Oregon Pay Equity Act.
Online applications
Metro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.
How to Apply
For tips on how to apply and more information on what the application process looks like, visit Metro's page.
Government Jobs
For assistance with your account or to reset your password please visit GovernmentJobs page.
Metro
Led by an elected council, this unique government gives all residents of greater Portland a voice in shaping the future and provides parks, venues, services, and tools at a regional scale. We find solutions for our area's garbage and recycling that protect clean air and water; help plan land use and development to provide jobs and safe transportation; manage local venues that provide a connection to arts and culture and help keep the economy growing; protect 17,000 acres of parks and natural areas, and run the Oregon Zoo, to keep nature close to home.
As part of the Metro family, you play a vital role in serving the people of the greater Portland region.
Family members, including eligible spouses, domestic partners, and children, are covered under most of our benefits programs. Benefits vary depending on position and full-time, part-time, and variable hour status.
This is a budgeted, regular status position with a full-time schedule. The position is eligible for these benefits:
Metro also offers a variety of perks for all employees, including free admission to the Oregon Zoo (including ZooLights!), Oxbow and Blue Lake Regional Parks, membership discount at Lloyd Athletic Club, credit union eligibility and more. Employees also receive access to financial wellness and legal consultation services, as well as first-time home buying and ownership counseling.
Some positions are represented by a union and have additional benefits.
Location : Portland, OR
Job Type: Full Time
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-0344-WPES-3
Department: Property & Environmental Svcs
Opening Date: 04/08/2025
Closing Date: 4/22/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Position Summary
Hello, we're Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.
The Waste Prevention and Environmental Services (WPES) department is looking for an Associate Solid Waste Planner to support and help implement strategies to improve garbage and recycling services within the region. This position will join a team of planners that develops, coordinates, and manages complex waste reduction projects and initiatives that support the goals and principles of the and
This position will play a key role in supporting program development, strategic planning, engagement, and evaluation efforts to advance a variety of regional priorities including improving business food waste prevention and recovery, garbage and recycling services for underserved communities, and reuse and repair opportunities. This position will also collaborate with internal team and external partners to support policies and programs that will result in a more equitable solid waste system.
Metro's WPES department plans and oversees the region's garbage and recycling system - working with local communities, government and industry partners to protect the environment, conserve resources, and ensure that our garbage and recycling system works for everyone. WPES is committed to leading with equity in everything we do. We are guided by the 2030 Regional Waste Plan, which is focused on advancing racial equity, reducing the environmental and health impacts of products, maintaining and improving our garbage and recycling system, and rectifying the historic and ongoing inequities of that system on communities of color and others in our region.
This position is ideal for a team-oriented person that is passionate about waste reduction, project management and contributing to important public services. If you thrive in an environment that requires collaboration and partnership development with a broad range of stakeholders, this role is for you!
As the Associate Solid Waste Planner, you will
- Perform a variety of mid-level materials management planning and analysis activities to increase waste prevention, reuse, and recovery ensuring to incorporate equity considerations into all policy and program aspects.
- Provide technical and administrative support for materials management projects.
- Perform research and analysis, evaluate proposals and prepare reports.
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders on policy projects, program planning and legislative issues related to materials management.
- Liaise between Metro, industry, contractors, the public and city and county partners to provide and gather information related to materials management projects and priorities.
- Prepare reports and policy recommendations based on technical analysis of various materials management issues and present to internal and external partners.
- Manage contracts and review and process invoices for assigned contracts.
Attributes for success
- Strong project management, time management and organization skills, including ability to develop and coordinate projects.
- Knowledge of public policy development processes and practices.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong collaborative skills and a demonstrated ability to form and maintain partnerships and work effectively with others on a common task.
- Knowledge of materials management principles, methods, rules and regulations at city, county, regional and national levels.
- Ability to effectively communicate policy issues or regulations with a wide range of audiences including the public, industry, and government partners.
- Ability to work effectively and respectfully with people of different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives.
- Ability to work collaboratively to respond to issues, seek conflict resolutions and take ownership of mistakes, positive attitude, flexible in adapting to situations and people.
- Ability to promote a welcoming work culture; engage knowledgeably with people across cultures; understand and address power imbalances and be accountable for contributing to the delivery of inclusive and equitable services.
- Fulfill Metro's core competencies and demonstrate cultural humility, openness to change, effective communication, accountability, public service, and teamwork.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
At Metro, we strive to cultivate diversity, advance equity, and practice inclusion in all of our work. This means attracting and empowering a workforce that is inclusive of a broad range of human qualities. Workplace diversity is both a moral imperative and a business strength, essential to providing quality support and services to our region. Metro's goal is to hire, develop and retain highly skilled and talented individuals across all departments and programs who best reflect the diversity of our community.
TO QUALIFY
We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific in your application materials on how your background is relevant.
Minimum qualifications
- Two years of experience including research, analysis, and report writing or public policy development and
- A Bachelor's degree in science, public administration or related field; or
- Any combination of education, professional, volunteer and lived experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the classification duties and responsibilities.
If this statement is true for you, then you may be ineligible to apply
If you were terminated for cause during any employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, you may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.
Hybrid Telework
At this time, this position is designated as "hybrid telework." You will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. This position must report to work in person at the Metro Regional Center every Tuesday, with additional days as needed. This position must also attend all staff meetings and other required team gatherings in person. The manager will work with you to identify a schedule that balances the operational needs of the department and your needs. Employees must reside in Oregon or Washington to work at Metro
Like to have qualifications
You do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider them when identifying the most qualified candidates. Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience, including the military, or life experience that are relevant for this position.
- Knowledge and experience working on materials management projects and programs.
- Proficiency in project management tools and software, particularly Monday.com.
- Experience engaging with interested parties on policy efforts that impact a broad range of stakeholders.
- Experience analyzing procedures and policies with an equity lens and recommending improvements.
- Previous Experience working in the public sector.
SCREENING AND EVALUATION
The application packet: The application packet consists of the following required documents. Please ensure that you upload these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.
- A completed Resume that includes the details for each employer
- Name of employer, working title
- Dates of employment; including if the work was full-time or part-time your title,
- Number of employees supervised
- Summary of your responsibilities
- A cover letter addressing why you are interested in this position and explaining how your experience aligns with the qualifications and attributes for success listed in the job posting including any previous experience related to policy development and project management.
The selection process: We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows. The selection process is subject to change.
- Initial review of minimum qualifications
- In-depth evaluation of application materials to identify the most qualified candidates
- Consideration of top candidates/interviews
- Testing/assessments (if applicable)
- Reference check
- Background, driving records check for finalist candidate (if applicable)
COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND REPRESENTATON
The full-salary range for this position is step 1. $76,835.20 to step 7. $103,064.00. However, unless a candidate's qualifications justify, based on the requirements and Metro's internal equity review process, the appointment will likely be made between step 1. $76,835.20 to the equity range step 4. $89,024.00.
This position is not eligible for overtime and is represented by AFSCME 3580. It is classified as an Associate Solid Waste classification.
Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific duties and responsibilities of the positions.
Questions?
Recruiter:Carrie Gundermann
Email:
Additional Information
Equal employment opportunity
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made, or any other status protected by law.
Accommodation
Metro will gladly provide a reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.
Veterans' preference
Under Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans' preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.
Hybrid Telework
Positions designated as "hybrid telework," meaning you will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. The designation of Hybrid Telework may be subject to change at a future time. All employees must reside in Oregon or Washington; Metro cannot support ongoing telework from other locations.
Pay equity at Metro
No matter who you are or where you work at Metro, you deserve to be paid fairly for the work you do.Every worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of your gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics. has established processes and conducts routine pay equity reviews as part of the hiring process to ensure compliance with the 2017 Oregon Pay Equity Act.
Online applications
Metro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.
How to Apply
For tips on how to apply and more information on what the application process looks like, visit Metro's page.
Government Jobs
For assistance with your account or to reset your password please visit GovernmentJobs page.
Metro
Led by an elected council, this unique government gives all residents of greater Portland a voice in shaping the future and provides parks, venues, services, and tools at a regional scale. We find solutions for our area's garbage and recycling that protect clean air and water; help plan land use and development to provide jobs and safe transportation; manage local venues that provide a connection to arts and culture and help keep the economy growing; protect 17,000 acres of parks and natural areas, and run the Oregon Zoo, to keep nature close to home.
As part of the Metro family, you play a vital role in serving the people of the greater Portland region.
Family members, including eligible spouses, domestic partners, and children, are covered under most of our benefits programs. Benefits vary depending on position and full-time, part-time, and variable hour status.
This is a budgeted, regular status position with a full-time schedule. The position is eligible for these benefits:
- Medical, dental and vision health insurance
- Paid sick leave
- Paid vacation, holiday, and other leave
- Paid parental leave
- Full contribution to Oregon PERS retirement
- No-cost TriMet Hop Pass
- Employee Assistance Program
- Training opportunities
- Flexible schedules depending on position and department
- Hybrid/Telework living in Oregon /Washington depending on position and department
Metro also offers a variety of perks for all employees, including free admission to the Oregon Zoo (including ZooLights!), Oxbow and Blue Lake Regional Parks, membership discount at Lloyd Athletic Club, credit union eligibility and more. Employees also receive access to financial wellness and legal consultation services, as well as first-time home buying and ownership counseling.
Some positions are represented by a union and have additional benefits.