Sustainability Coordinator

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

Part of the Division of Student Affairs, University Housing consists of nearly 2.8 million square feet of facilities and is home to more than 9,000 students. The department employs 220 full-time staff members, 21 graduate assistants and 565 undergraduate student workers. As a self-supporting auxiliary, University Housing operates a $59 million budget derived only from student housing fees and other non-state sources.

In support of its mission to provide comfortable, affordable and secure housing options where the academic success and personal growth of residents are encouraged and supported, University Housing engages staff members in competency-based training and students in curriculum-based engagement focused on community building, interpersonal skills, social awareness and responsibility, and well-being.

Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Some after hours and weekend work possible

Priority consideration will be given to those who complete the application process by April 18, 2025; however, screening will continue until the position is filled.

We are unable to offer a work visa sponsorship for this position. You must be authorized to work in the U.S. to apply.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

Experience in program administration, coordination and implementation of a variety of sustainability initiatives in a college or educational environment will be given strong consideration.

The sustainability coordinator is responsible for coordinating social, environmental, and economic sustainability initiatives within University Housing for students and staff. The primary function of this position is to direct and implement the sustainability strategic plan as it relates to programming, facilities, and training.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Sustainability Planning and Program Development

* Refine and coordinate a department-wide sustainability plan that includes annual sustainability priorities for the department, identifies annual expected outcomes and utilizes indicators of sustainability that enable assessment of performance.
* Develop, implement and support environmental sustainability training and education efforts for students and staff within the department.
* Plan and implement annual sustainability events for University Housing, including move-in recycling collection, energy and water conservation competitions and an end-of-the-year landfill diversion program.
* Research areas to improve business and operational practices and remain current on advances in the environmental/sustainability movements.
* Review and assess department policies and procedures for sustainable practices. Recommend and implement new or revised policies and procedures relating to sustainability practices.
* Assist in the development and management of programming and operational budgets.

Stakeholder Collaboration and Communication

* Respond through personal contact with students, staff, faculty, administrators and other stakeholders to resolve problems, answer questions and provide information on environmental sustainability services and initiatives.

* Coordinate sustainability related assessment in terms of student and staff needs and opinions and incorporate results into programming strategies and planning efforts.

* Collaborate with housing units (Facilities, Residential Programs and Services, and Administrative Services and Communications) to infuse sustainability principles into short- and long-range planning and operations.

* Work with public relations coordinator to promote departmental sustainability initiatives on the University Housing website, via social media, within the residence halls and via educational print materials.

Student Staff Supervision

* Select, train and advise the EcoReps, a group of student volunteers with a focus on fostering a culture of sustainability within their communities.
* Supervise one or more Office of Sustainability interns.

Administrative Tasks

* Identify, seek and secure grant funding, corporate partnerships and other savings programs to leverage department resources and further propel our sustainability efforts.
* Serve on departmental and University committees and task forces and participate in other professional development activities.
* Prepare timely, thorough and accurate reports as required.
* Perform other duties consistent with the purpose of the position as assigned.