Polk County Conservation (PCC) is seeking an individual interested in the opportunity to assist in implementing a recently completed Sustainability Plan. This individual will work with PCC staff and partner organizations to complete action items within the Plan and further PCC sustainability initiatives.

This paid, contracted (W-9) position is $35/hour. Successful applicants will not be employees of Polk County and will not be eligible for any employee benefits provided by Polk County. This position reports directly to the co-chairs of the PCC sustainability committee. The position requires a commitment of approximately 25 hours/week (schedule negotiable according to availability), up to $24,000, with the potential to extend.

Direct questions to: Amanda Brown, PCC Ecologist, 515-323-5357, amanda.brown@polkcountyiowa.gov

Illustrative Examples of Work

Assist PCC administrative staff in tracking and reporting energy use and developing a benchmark system;
Facilitate completion of an energy audit on all PCC buildings/sites and prioritization of a maintenance and upgrade plan to meet energy efficiency goals;
Identify and prioritize locations for rainwater collection systems based on current and future water usage;
Work with PCC administrative staff and individual divisions to ensure purchase of sustainable goods and services and develop a plan to minimize generated waste;
Develop internal composting program for Equestrian Center horse manure as well as food waste from events and programs;
Conduct a vulnerability assessment based future climate change projections and other factors of all PCC critical infrastructure (roads, buildings, etc), determine high risk areas, anticipate future maintenance costs and develop a capital improvement plan based on these items;
Attend outreach events on an as needed basis;
Evaluate current PCC recycling efforts and create a sustainable program consistent across all managed areas;
Work with the PCC Environmental Education and Community Outreach departments to develop educational programing for internal staff and the public on the topics of sustainability and climate change as well as creation of marketing material;
Meet with various partner organizations to implement plan elements, identify involvement/collaboration opportunities, and develop new strategies for PCC; and
Update PCC sustainability committee co-chairs on progress of efforts on a regular basis.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Must have experience in project management and coordination.
Must have familiarity with data management.
Undergraduate/Graduate degree in the environmental field OR equivalent work experience in this field preferred.
Experience with GIS mapping and software is preferred.
Experience working with social media platforms is preferred.

Training and Experience

A criminal background check is required.
A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions.

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Sustainability Coordinator