Waste management officer

Job description

Waste management officers work within local authorities and co-ordinate waste management procedures, whether in refuse reduction, recycling or clearance. Management officers ensure compliance with legislation regarding the safe handling and disposal of waste, act as consultants about recycling and waste management to numerous organisations, communities and local authorities, and head projects to tackle problems, improve disposal procedures and methods and to highlight the environmental and economical benefits of recycling.

Work activities

• Answering queries from the public, local authorities and production/industrial organisations.
• Devising strategies for new and existing refuse reduction/collection projects, and co-ordinating their implementation.
• Managing budgets and ensuring quotas and local, national and European targets are achieved.
• Liaising with other environmental experts and workers.
• Meeting with community representatives or industrial companies to tailor and modify strategies to their needs.
• Promoting recycling and safe waste disposal projects.

Work conditions

Travel: is required by some multinational companies.

Working hours: are generally 9 to 5 office hours, with the possibility of some weekend work.

Location: opportunities exist with authorities and agencies throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Typical employers

• Waste management agencies.
• Local authorities.
• Environmental agencies.
• Consultancies.

Entry requirements

A degree in an environmental, engineering or science subject is usually required for entry. Experience is project management is also beneficial.

Further information

The Waste Management Industry Training and Advisory Board (WAMITAB) is the awarding body for the waste industry in Northern Ireland.