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Circular Economy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Circular Services

Plant Associate I

Anniston, AL · On-site

Company Info Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the ...

Circular Services

Plant Associate I

Opelika, AL · On-site

Company Info Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the ...

Circular Services

Sorter

Taylor, TX · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the country. We help ...

RHI Magnesita

Business Developer - Recycling

York, PA · On-site

This role will focus on sourcing recyclable refractory materials, developing partnerships, supporting recycling operations, and driving growth within our circular economy portfolio. The ideal ...

Circular Services

Senior Accountant

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the country. We help ...

Circular Services

Senior Accountant

Normal, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the country. We help ...

Circular Services

Sorter

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

Company Info Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy infrastructure and services and the largest private recycling company in the U.S. with operations across the ...

Prolim Global

Lead Regulatory Engineer (EPR)

Wyoming, MN · On-site

$101K - $134K/yr

This role will lead cross-functional efforts to ensure compliance with evolving environmental laws while supporting sustainability and circular economy goals. Key Responsibilities: * Monitor and ...

V2Soft

Quality Engineer - Senior

Lake Angelus, MI

$86K - $116K/yr

The Senior Circular Economy (CE) Parts Recovery Analyst leads the identification, recovery, and monetization of service parts, cores, and production scrap across powertrain and non powertrain ...

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All JobsCircular Economy Jobs

Circular Economy information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do circular economy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for circular economy in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Circular Economy?

A circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and promoting the continual use of resources. Unlike the traditional linear model (make, use, dispose), a circular economy prioritizes recycling, reusing, repairing, and refurbishing products and materials. This approach reduces environmental impact, conserves natural resources, and creates sustainable economic growth. Businesses, governments, and individuals all play roles in transitioning to and supporting a circular economy.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Circular Economy roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Circular Economy roles often encounter challenges such as resistance to change within traditional business models, sourcing sustainable materials, and ensuring cross-departmental collaboration. Overcoming these challenges typically involves strong stakeholder engagement, continuous education on the benefits of circular practices, and fostering a culture of innovation. Building alliances with supply chain partners and leveraging data to demonstrate long-term cost savings can also help drive successful implementation of circular initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Circular Economy Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circular Economy Specialist, you need expertise in sustainability practices, systems thinking, and knowledge of waste reduction and resource management, often supported by a degree in environmental science, engineering, or sustainability. Familiarity with life cycle assessment (LCA) tools, circularity metrics, and relevant certifications such as LEED or ISO 14001 is valuable. Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills help drive organizational change and engage stakeholders. These skills are crucial for designing and implementing sustainable systems that reduce waste and promote long-term value.

What is the difference between Circular Economy vs Waste Management Specialist?

AspectCircular EconomyWaste Management Specialist
FocusDesigning sustainable systems to reuse and recycle resourcesManaging waste collection, disposal, and recycling processes
CredentialsEnvironmental, sustainability, or engineering degrees; certifications in sustainabilityEnvironmental or waste management certifications; technical training
Work EnvironmentCollaborative projects across industries, offices, and labsFieldwork, waste facilities, and treatment plants
Industry UsageUsed in sustainability planning, product design, and policy developmentApplied in waste collection companies, recycling centers, and municipal services

While both roles aim to promote environmental sustainability, Circular Economy professionals focus on creating systems that minimize waste and maximize resource reuse at a systemic level. Waste Management Specialists primarily handle the operational aspects of waste collection and disposal. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the sustainability industry.

More about Circular Economy jobs
What cities are hiring for Circular Economy jobs? Cities with the most Circular Economy job openings:
What states have the most Circular Economy jobs? States with the most job openings for Circular Economy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Circular Economy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Circular Economy jobs are:
Circular Economy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circular Economy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Manager, Sustainability and Circular Economy

Manager, Sustainability and Circular Economy

Airlite Plastics

Omaha, NE • On-site

$106K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Airlite Plastics rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 110 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Description
Airlite Plastics is a premier, privately held, family-owned manufacturer headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Our family style and personal culture is what makes Airlite an amazing place to grow and build a successful career. Airlite's company values of unquestionable integrity and respect and appreciation for each other are at the core of our success! These values set a strong foundation to build on where we can 'wow' our customers with innovative products and sustainable solutions, and continuously improve our processes and efficiencies.
Our product lines include rigid plastic containers and lids for food packaging and cosmetics, dry powder scoops, plastic drink cups, shipping containers, industrial strength insulated concrete forms (ICF) and sustainable permeable paving systems. As pioneers in our industry, focused on sustainable solutions, we strive to provide our customers with top-notch service and quality, which aligns with our award-winning products.
How would you contribute?
This role is a contributing member of our Airlite - Omaha team, located in Omaha, NE. As a Manager, Sustainability and Circular Economy you are a key to continued growth and success of Airlite. The Manager of Sustainability and Circular Economy is responsible for managing Airlite Plastics' commitment to sustainable solutions and advancing a circular plastics market within the injection molding industry. This high-impact, cross-functional leadership role will drive packaging innovation, ensure proactive compliance with rapidly evolving global regulations, and partner directly with customers to guide sustainable product strategies. This role is crucial for shaping our long-term sustainability strategy, maximizing the use of Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) materials, and maintaining absolute credibility by avoiding greenwashing.
Essential Duties:
  • Monitor, interpret, and ensure compliance with North American sustainability regulations, including extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws and state-specific fees (e.g., California, Oregon, Colorado). Advise on emerging federal and provincial (Canada) policies.
  • Develop and implement a roadmap for advancing circular economy principles, increasing PCR usage, and reducing environmental impact across the product lifecycle.
  • Position the Airlite family of brands as an industry leader by publishing white papers, speaking at conferences, and engaging with CPG clients, retailers and contractors on sustainability trends and solutions.
  • In collaboration with Airlite teams, partner with clients to design sustainable packaging solutions that meet retailer targets (e.g., recyclability, reduced virgin plastic use) and align with consumer demands.
  • Drive R&D for sustainable materials and processes, including advanced recycling technologies and potentially biodegradable alternatives, while ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness.
  • Collaborate with industry groups (e.g., Sustainable Packaging Coalition, Plastics Industry Association), regulators, and potential NGOs to shape policy and standards.
  • Establish KPIs for sustainability goals (e.g., % PCR content, carbon footprint reduction) and provide honest and transparent results to customers and stakeholders.
  • Ensure all sustainability claims are substantiated, compliant with industry standards to maintain credibility.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Do you have what it takes? Airlite Plastics is a versatile employer; complacency is not one of our strengths! We work hard each day to ensure that equipment efficiency and customer satisfaction never leave our line of sight. Successful candidates for the role will possess the following:
Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
  • Deep knowledge of plastics recycling, PCR materials, and sustainable packaging technologies.
  • Strong understanding of North American environmental regulations (e.g., SB 54/343, EPR frameworks).
  • Analytical mindset for developing KPIs, lifecycle assessments, and sustainability metrics.
  • Project management experience to lead cross-departmental initiatives.
  • Capability to solve complex problems, utilizing strong critical thinking and decision-making skills
  • Superior organizational skills and the ability to assemble resources needed to orchestrate multiple projects/activities and accomplish goals.
  • Model a collaborative leadership style with the ability to build partnerships and influence others into action.
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
  • Outstanding presentation and facilitation skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and consultative approach; tactful in dealing with people at all levels.
  • Strong sense of urgency, self-motivated and positive.
  • Flexible and adaptable; able to work in ambiguous situations.
  • Ability to actively lead change initiatives.
  • Display highest ethical standards.
  • Maintain the utmost level of confidentiality in dealing with sensitive information.
  • Detail oriented, with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Bachelor's degree in environmental science, materials science, sustainability, chemical engineering, or related field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.
  • Minimum, five (5) years of experience in sustainability, preferably plastics, packaging or CPG industry.
  • Proven track record in navigating EPR laws, recycling regulations, or circular economy initiatives.
  • Experience working with retailers, CPG brands, or regulatory bodies on sustainability goals a plus.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This role does not have personnel supervisory responsibilities; however, this role includes working with cross-functional teams in a matrixed organization.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; stand; walk; use hand dexterity to operate office equipment including computer keyboards; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the office work environment is typically quiet; when visiting the production floor, the noise level may be loud.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Our Core Values Drive Us!
  • Do you conduct yourself with unquestionable integrity?
  • Do you demonstrate respect and appreciation for those around you?
  • Are you innovative and strive to challenge the status quo?
  • Do you strive for continuous improvement and to deliver the "wow" factor?
  • Do you care about environmentally sustainable solutions?
  • Do you take meaning and pride in a job well done?

What's in it for you? As a Full-Time employee, you will be eligible for the following benefits:
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Company paid short term disability
  • Generous 401k match
  • Generous Time Off
  • Annual company activities

Apply