Recycling and Materials Management Intern

We are seeking an intern to support our recycling, organics, and waste reduction programs throughout North America. The type of work will vary but will frequently involve waste characterization studies and zero waste outreach. The ideal candidate will have an interest in recycling, organics, and waste reduction programs, as well as interest in quantitative analysis and problem-solving. Attention to detail and a commitment to team building are equally important qualities.

Specific duties of this role include:

• Collaboratively collecting and sorting (either visually or by hand-sort) desired waste, recyclable, and/or organic material as specified in a research study design.
• Writing emails, reports, memos, and other project-related documents.
• Performing data entry and collection both in the field and in the office using Cascadia’s cloud-based software and Excel.
• Conducting quantitative analyses in spreadsheets and databases.
• Conducting research (internet and telephone surveys) as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by the client(s) or Cascadia.

Required Qualifications

• Understanding of, and commitment to, Cascadia’s mission to “inspire and empower communities everywhere to protect and restore our world” in an equitable and inclusive way.
• Strong verbal and written communication, quantitative analysis, and problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt to diverse styles and perspectives, both in person and over the phone.
• Commitment to thinking critically about your own cultural lens; ability to provide equitable outreach, and communicate respectfully and effectively with people from a diversity of backgrounds.
• Basic to intermediate experience—and a willingness to expand skills—in producing documents with Microsoft Office 365 programs such as SharePoint, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Comfort working with technology, including tablets and computers.
• The ability to organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines with an attention to detail in a dynamic work environment, including efficiently carrying out administrative tasks.
• Commitment to working both in teams and independently to advance common goals, think creatively, collaborate with others to resolve issues, and create high-quality work products.
• Willingness and desire to take on new challenges and responsibilities.
• Interest in solid waste management, composting, and/or recycling.
• Valid driver’s license and comfort with driving (personal vehicle not required).
• Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to stand or walk on uneven surfaces for up to 10 hours per day.
• Ability to work outdoors, including in inclement weather.