Recycling Manager
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Recycling Manager.
Position Details
Location
Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
Mississipi Polymer Science Institute
Position Type
Staff
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
Yes
Pay Grade
E12
Posting Close Date
July 24, 2026
Special Instructions to ApplicantsThis 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 theUnited States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. TheUniversity will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Recycling Manager isresponsible for developing long term material testing strategies and outreachassociated with Mississippi Polymer Institute's (MPI) recycling and re-useactivities, from compost ability to plastic re-use. This role is central toadvancing our sustainability mission by demonstrating the efficacy ofbioplastics as a feedstock for composting, diverting food waste, and reducingplastic pollution in commercial and industrial settings. The position requires the RecyclingManager to work independently to analyze complex data and make high leveldecisions that accurately reflect ROI for external companies. The RecyclingManager is actively involved in developing, implementing, managing, andeducating across all program areas and must be proactive, resourceful, andcapable of working effectively at all levels of the organization and with externalbusinesses.
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.
Minimum QualificationsMaster's degree from an accredited college or university in Science, Technology Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or a related field. Three (3) years of experience in commercial operations, conducting federal requirements for certification, and community engagement. One (1) year of experience in grant writing. One (1) year of experience in designing and implementing training programs. One (1) year of experience in sustainability and data management. One (1) year of experience with accredited laboratory methods and management. Must have a valid driver's license.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong ability to plan, organize, and oversee programs from concept to execution, including managing staff, volunteers, and timeline
- Ability to design educational content, workshops, and outreach materials for diverse audiences, including students, industry and community members
- Demonstrated experience building partnerships with organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to diverse groups, facilitate workshops, and engage stakeholders
- Working knowledge of federal regulations regarding FDA, ASTM, and ISO.
- Proficiency in researching funding opportunities, writing grant proposals, and managing grant reporting requirements
- Ability to track program outcomes, analyze data, and use results to improve programming and demonstrate commercial and university impact and ROI
- Independent contributor with ease managing multiple projects, maintaining accurate records, and meeting deadlines
- Ability to work in dynamic environments and adapt programming based on community needs and available resources
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of SouthernMississippi has remained dedicated to preparingstudents for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 studentsin Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across theMississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Weare a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one ofthe nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work inpolymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringinglanguage to children with communication disorders. We are also a nationalleader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enterfields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs suchas computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation ofbusiness leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages byproducing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition ofexcellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nationaccredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, ourstudent-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion andpersistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.