Sustainability Lead / Zero Waste Lead

Job Title: Operation Lead

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Job Summary

We are seeking a hands-on Sustainability Lead / Zero Waste Lead to support daily waste management operations, recycling, composting, and food-waste reduction initiatives. The ideal candidate has leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for sustainability and environmental responsibility. This person will work closely with operations teams to improve waste-diversion practices, maintain compliance, and promote a zero-waste culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily waste management activities, including recycling, composting, and proper waste disposal.
• Conduct daily waste audits, track waste data, and prepare reports on waste generation and diversion.
• Coordinate food donation activities and support food-waste reduction initiatives.
• Maintain recycling and waste collection stations, ensuring supplies and equipment are available and organized.
• Coordinate with waste management vendors to ensure timely collection and proper disposal.
• Support sustainability audits, zero-waste certification efforts, and environmental compliance requirements.
• Identify operational issues and develop corrective action plans to improve waste diversion and reduce waste.
• Train employees and kitchen staff on proper waste sorting, recycling, composting, and sustainability procedures.
• Collaborate with the sustainability and operations teams to improve processes and operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to waste audits, recycling, composting, and food donations.

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience in a lead, supervisory, or team leadership role.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English, particularly spoken communication.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Basic proficiency with Google Docs and other standard workplace tools.
• Ability to train employees and encourage compliance with operational procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
• Ability to take ownership of tasks and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Cultural awareness and ability to communicate effectively with diverse teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• TRUE Advisor certification through GBCI.
• Experience supporting TRUE Zero Waste projects.
• Knowledge of waste-diversion tracking, waste audits, recycling, composting, and food donation documentation.
• Previous experience in sustainability, environmental services, food service, or waste management operations.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position, five days per week, with eight-hour shifts.
• Weekend availability is required.
• Regular days off are Wednesday and Thursday.