Senior Waste Manager

POSTED: 21/3/2025
STARTING DATE: As soon as possible
FULL TIME, ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

MISSION TO METRICS

The mission of The Ocean Cleanup is to develop and scale technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. Waste management is crucial of our projects. It is not enough to simply extract plastic—we must ensure that the collected waste is handled responsibly, recycled where possible, and disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. This is where the Senior Waste Manager plays a critical role.

From Extraction to Impact: The Senior Waste Manager ensures that every kilogram of plastic removed is accounted for, tracked, and managed in alignment with global sustainability standards. This includes developing waste management plans that prioritize recycling, upcycling, and responsible disposal, minimizing the environmental footprint of our operations.

THE ASSIGNMENT

The Senior Waste Manager plays a critical role in our river projects by leveraging their experience and expertise in waste management, in alignment with the Waste Management strategy led by the Head of River Waste Management. The Senior Waste Manager contributes knowledge, skills, and networks to support the success of our Clean Tech development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Developing and implementing detailed waste management plans for river projects to achieve responsible handling of extracted plastic and waste.
• Providing robust assessments and reports on local waste management practices, specifically tailored for city-based river projects.
• Facilitating collaboration with local stakeholders and partners to support waste management initiatives and share best practices.
• Developing and delivering knowledge-sharing sessions to enhance the waste management skills of team members and local partners.
• Leveraging expertise to contribute to the growth and success of clean-up projects in alignment with responsible waste management practices.

KEY DELIVERABLES & OUTCOMES

• Comprehensive waste management plans aligned with The Ocean Cleanup guidelines, best local practices, and partners capabilities to achieve responsible waste management solutions for river projects.
• Accurate desk assessments and field reports on local waste management practices for city-based river projects to consolidate our strategy in preparation for the scale up.
• Collection and dissemination of waste management best practices and lessons learned to strengthen the Waste Management team’s knowledge base.
• Stakeholders mapping and analysis to collaborate with other teams members on building effective partnerships with local communities, organizations, and authorities to enhance project outcomes.
• Monitoring reports regarding catch data and the compliance with responsible waste management standards to consolidate The Ocean Cleanup’s positions as an expert in the field of solving the plastic pollution problem.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Environmental Science, Waste Management, Environmental Engineering, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of work experience in waste management, including knowledge of waste handling practices, waste management strategies, and best practices in the field.
• Familiarity with international environmental regulations and policies, such as EU Waste Framework Directive, and national or regional waste management regulations and practices.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, practical implementation skills, and a hands-on approach to ensure the successful execution of waste management plans.
• Research, analysis, and reporting skills, including the ability to compile and present data, communicate findings effectively, and follow guidance from the Head of River Waste Management.
• Ability to assess environmental impacts, track waste metrics, and prepare detailed reports on performance and compliance.
• Experience in working in different geographies, preferably in Latin America, Asia, or Africa.
• Proven experience in managing waste management projects from strategy to implementation.

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong command of verbal and written English. Spanish is a big plus.
• Excellent communication and social skills including a strong cultural awareness and ability to communicate on all levels.
• A mindset of continuous improvement by learning from ongoing projects, identifying lessons learned, and staying updated with the latest developments in waste management.
• Ability to effectively work as part of a team and influence without formal authority.
• Willingness to travel abroad for site visits and working on slightly smelly work environments and dirty boots.
• Curious and open-minded, ready to let go of old ideas and embrace change.
• Self-starter with an analytical approach to problem-solving.
• Intrinsically motivated to work on our ambitious and meaningful goal.
• Thriving in a dynamic and evolving organizational environment.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Starting date As soon as possible.
• Location : The role is based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
• Please note: because we are a non-profit, our salaries reflect that of an organization fully reliant on donations rather than that of a commercial entity. Conducting a pre-employment check may be part of this recruitment process.
• At The Ocean Cleanup, we believe we are stronger together, while harnessing the uniqueness each individual brings. That is why we take a fair, equal opportunity, and transparent approach to hiring and welcome special needs requests.