Recycling Manager

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 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.

Minimum Qualifications Master’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 Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, 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.