Senior Planner - Solid Waste & Organics

HDR, Inc.; California, Walnut Creek (MO, CA); On-site; USD 124,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the waste management sector seeks a seasoned professional to lead planning and strategy development in California's waste marketplace. The role emphasizes project management, sustainability initiatives, and collaboration with regional leaders. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in recycling and environmental policies, and will be responsible for developing innovative waste management strategies while engaging with clients and stakeholders.

Benefits

Health Coverage

Retirement Plans

Professional Development

Qualifications

• 7+ years in recycling, composting, sustainability, or waste management.
• 10+ years in environmental consulting with project management experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist in business development activities and proposal writing.
• Develop long-term waste management strategies for municipalities.
• Lead project pursuits, including client engagement and proposals.

Skills

Sustainability

Project Management

Communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

Each role in our organization contributes to our ability to make a positive impact globally. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible in your community and beyond.

Position Overview

Our Northern California Solid Waste and Organics team seeks a candidate to lead planning and strategy development in the California Waste marketplace, collaborating with regional leaders. The role involves advancing waste practices across service lines, focusing on project management, planning, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The ideal candidate will support waste diversion, resource management, and planning projects across North America, with knowledge or experience in recycling, organics, zero waste, circular economy, and sustainability initiatives, especially in California. The candidate should be confident working independently and within teams, developing relationships, and engaging groups effectively.

Responsibilities

1. Assist in business development activities, including proposal writing, project engagement, and attending industry events.
2. Develop long-term waste management strategies for municipalities, researching and evaluating new technologies and programs.
3. Support planning and approval processes for waste management facilities.
4. Prepare reports, memos, and presentations tailored to diverse audiences.
5. Build and maintain client relationships, generate leads, and strategize future directions.
6. Participate in project teams, ensuring quality control and strategic positioning within California and the West Region.
7. Assess market opportunities and develop prioritized client targets.
8. Lead project pursuits, including client engagement, proposals, budgets, and negotiations.
9. Support EPR projects and develop new strategic clients and opportunities.
10. Expand projects in organics and recyclable materials markets.

Additional Activities

• Engage in project implementation and quality assurance.
• Contribute to strategic planning and market positioning.
• Collaborate across offices and with partners on projects.

Keywords

Solid Waste, Sustainability, Planning, Organics, Environmental, Municipal, Public Policy, Community and Regional Planning, Recycling, Environmental Justice, Technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7+ years in recycling, composting, sustainability, or waste management, preferably in consulting or municipal settings.
• Familiarity with environmental and municipal policies.
• Knowledge of current waste management trends like zero waste and circular economy.
• Active industry engagement, e.g., SWANA membership.
• Expertise in Circular Economy, EPR, Environmental Justice, or Composting.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning or related field.
• 10+ years in environmental consulting, with experience in marketing, project management, and client relations; advanced degrees may offset experience requirements.
• AICP certification preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, GIS, and report production.
• Strong leadership, communication, and travel readiness.

Our Values and Benefits

We believe in building an inclusive, supportive culture through employee networks and comprehensive benefits, including health coverage, retirement plans, and professional development. The position offers an annual salary range of $124,163 - $177,375, based on experience and location.

Location and Industry

Primary Location: Walnut Creek, California
Industry: Waste
Schedule: Full-time
Employee Status: Regular