Campus Waste, Recycling & Fleet Manager

Columbia University Facilities & Operations; New York (NY); On-site; USD 105,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The Operations department at Columbia University Facilities & Operations maintains campus facilities and grounds across Morningside Heights and Manhattanville. The Manager, Waste Recycle & Fleet oversees waste logistics, with campus-wide duties including turf and planting area management and coordination with Grounds for high-quality landscapes.

This role requires NYC-certified pesticide applicator/technician status, strong administration skills, and the ability to work flexible hours for

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree is required.
• A minimum of 4 years related experience required.
• Minimum of five years of experience in waste logistics, and/or horticultural training is required.
• NYC-certified pesticide applicator or technician required.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours and shifts, including availability for weather‑related emergencies (e.g., snow), weekends, and holidays.
• Demonstrated experience in general administration, including fiscal responsibility, workflow, resource and inventory management, and personnel development.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• In‑depth knowledge of plant care in an urban university environment.
• Knowledge in long‑term landscape development and habitat protection.

Responsibilities

• Oversee waste and recycling management in both academic and residential sites along with the snow removal strategy for the entire campus.
• Work closely with the Manager of Grounds in the care of lawns and landscapes, ensuring compliance with New York City and State regulations and codes.
• Assign and supervise daily tasks performed by the Grounds and Waste Management staff.
• Review staff performance and manage departmental record‑keeping, including payroll, overtime, and purchasing.
• Establish and maintain standards, policies, and procedures for staff work, ensuring adherence to University standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the NYDOS and assist with special events on campus.
• Work closely with the Director of Custodial Services to manage all waste routines.
• Support and manage special events on campus.
• Supervise the application of New York State restricted and non‑restricted pesticides as a NYS DEC Certified Pesticide Applicator or Technician (Categories 3(a) and any other categories deemed applicable to waste operations)
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Word & Excel

Waste logistics

Pesticide applicator

Staff supervision

Budget management

Resource management

Landscape knowledge

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Operations department at Columbia University Facilities & Operations maintains campus facilities and grounds across Morningside Heights and Manhattanville. The Manager, Waste Recycle & Fleet oversees waste logistics, with campus-wide duties including turf and planting area management and coordination with Grounds for high-quality landscapes.

This role requires NYC-certified pesticide applicator/technician status, strong administration skills, and the ability to work flexible hours for