Recycling Manager

Special Instructions to Applicants This position is grant funded for one year with the potential of follow on funding for a permanent position. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). Job Summary The Recycling Manager is responsible for developing long term material testing strategies and outreach associated with Mississippi Polymer Institute’s (MPI) recycling and re-use activities, from compost ability to plastic re-use. This role is central to advancing our sustainability mission by demonstrating the efficacy of bioplastics as a feedstock for composting, diverting food waste, and reducing plastic pollution in commercial and industrial settings. The position requires the Recycling Manager to work independently to analyze complex data and make high level decisions that accurately reflect ROI for external companies. The Recycling Manager is actively involved in developing, implementing, managing, and educating across all program areas and must be proactive, resourceful, and capable of working effectively at all levels of the organization and with external businesses. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and large commercial equipment. Analyze large and complex datasets with statistical models and software. Operate and maintain the composting and polymer recycling lab facilities both as part of client projects and outreach activities. Produce professional technical reports for clients. Fluency in federal regulation regarding soil, compost, heavy metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Identify and conduct ISO accredited laboratory testing related to compostable materials. Spectrometry analysis of materials by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Chemical testing of materials by Total Organic Carbon Analysis and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen analysis Ecotoxicity testing method OECD 208 Total volatile solids testing of finished compost. Design, manage, and conduct informative outreach initiatives focused on sustainability: composting, bioplastics, recycling, and re-using. Includes assisting and teaching modules for Sustainability certificate courses offered by MPI. Research, develop, write, and submit grant proposals to secure ongoing funding for the MPI Recycling Program. Supervise student workers or volunteers. Perform other duties as assigned.