Zero Waste Campaign Associate

About the Role

CALPIRG is hiring a Zero Waste Associate to drive campaigns focused on breaking the waste cycle and moving towards a circular or zero waste economy. The role involves addressing issues of consumption, disposal, resource waste, and pollution.

Key Responsibilities

• Educate and mobilize public support through online and in-person outreach.
• Build powerful coalitions by reaching out to diverse organizations and constituency groups.
• Earn traditional and social media attention by organizing news conferences and writing opinion pieces.
• Organize events and work with volunteers, including webinars, community events, and public meetings.
• Engage in direct advocacy by meeting with decision-makers.
• Research and write reports, cataloging and analyzing data relevant to campaign goals.
• Recruit new team members, including volunteers, interns, and full-time staff.
• Run a grassroots campaign office each summer, including door-knocking for fundraising, building the organization, and securing grassroots support. This may involve meeting fundraising goals and managing paid staff, and may require flexibility to relocate for the summer.
• Participate in organizational projects and trainings, potentially assisting other teams on priority campaigns and tactics. Travel for regional and national trainings and projects may be required.
• This is not a standard “9-5” or “clock in, clock out” position.

Campaign Focus Areas

• Phase out fast fashion.
• Reduce needless plastic waste.
• Protect individuals from microplastics.
• Build support to reduce single-use plastic waste in preparation for the LA28 Olympics by establishing reusable foodware systems.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ability to travel regularly.
• Motivation to work when needed, including evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Leadership experience is ideal.
• Top-notch writing and public speaking skills are desirable.
• Eagerness to learn.
• Readiness for a challenge.
• Organizing experience, including building campus or community groups, is valued.
• Training on advocacy and organizing skills will be provided.
• Oversight will be provided by an experienced advocate.

Compensation and Benefits

• Target annual compensation: $40,000 in the first year.
• Benefits package includes:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents.
• Time off.
• Commuter benefit program.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Parental leave.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• May include needs-based student loan assistance.
• Excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.