Part Time Program Assistant

Part Time Program Assistant

Job Description

Position: Part Time Program Assistant          

Reports to: Director, Solid Waste

Department     Engineering and Public Works

Hours per Pay Period: ~18-20 hours per week

Pay: $18/hour

Purpose of Job

The purpose of this position is to perform administrative tasks in support of the Knox County Solid Waste Department, perform public outreach at Knox County recycling facilities, and plan and support waste reduction and zero waste community events.

Essential Functions

• Perform waste reduction duties and provide logistical support during all stages of events, including planning, setup, event support, and dismantling. 
• Maintain knowledge of applicable policies regarding recycling and waste disposal within Knox County, local institutions, and surrounding areas. 
• Address questions and concerns from the public via phone, email, or face-to-face interaction. 
• Enter data and maintain databases used for measuring waste totals and departmental data. 
• Assist with coordination and support of department programs such as Adopt-a-Road, Bicycle Recycling, and Mercury Light Bulb Collection. 
• Assist with promoting programs and events on social media, websites, and through local media releases. 
• Assist with planning, development, and coordination of several environmentally focused events involving collaboration among multiple agencies and organizations. 
• Visit waste and recycling facilities in the field to interact with facility users, answer questions, provide recycling education, and report incidents as noticed. 
• Recruit and coordinate volunteers for public events. 
• Assist the Solid Waste Department in improving operational efficiency and delivery of services. 
• Answer telephones, provide information, respond to inquiries and questions, and make referrals or forward calls to appropriate individuals, departments, or agencies. 
• Pick up and deliver supplies for events and department programs. 
• Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours. 
• Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional, or central office supervisors as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Health Department. 
• Perform other duties as required. 

Additional Job Functions

N/A

Minimum Training & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required. 
• Bachelor's-level students, post-graduate students, or recent graduates in Environmental Science, Public Administration, Economics, Business, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field preferred. 
• Must be 18 years of age or older. 
• Must possess and maintain a valid Tennessee driver's license. 

Specialized Knowledge Competencies

• Ability to solve routine problems. 
• Ability to communicate with a variety of constituencies. 
• Ability to use computer equipment and Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. 

Physical Requirements

This position requires the following physical abilities:

• Frequent periods of moderate physical activity and occasional periods of heavy physical activity. Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 30 pounds without assistance. 
• Ability to operate a variety of standard office equipment, including a computer, printer, telephone, copier, fax machine, and scanner. 
• Ability to speak clearly to convey or exchange information. 
• Ability to read informational documents, directions, instructions, methods, and procedures. 
• Ability to write using proper format, punctuation, spelling, grammar, and all parts of speech.