Waste Diversion Coordinator

Career Guide

A Waste Diversion Coordinator helps an organization reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill by improving recycling, composting, and reuse programs. The role blends on site coordination, vendor management, staff education, and reporting to meet waste reduction goals and support sustainability commitments.

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Key Responsibilities

Audit waste streams and identify opportunities to increase diversion
Set up and improve recycling and organics collection systems
Coordinate waste and recycling vendors and service schedules
Train employees and tenants on correct sorting practices
Create clear signage and communication materials for waste stations
Track diversion performance and prepare simple reports for stakeholders
Investigate contamination issues and implement corrective actions
Support events and special projects with zero waste or low waste plans
Ensure compliance with local waste rules and site policies
Manage small budgets for bins, signage, and program supplies

Top Skills for Success

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Project Coordination

Problem Solving

Data Tracking

Vendor Management

Training Delivery

Waste Auditing

Recycling Program Management

Organics Program Management

Contamination Reduction

Waste Regulations Knowledge

Safety Practices

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Sustainability Specialist

Environmental Compliance Specialist Facilities Manager

Zero Waste Program Manager

ESG Analyst

Transition Opportunities

Sustainability Manager Environmental Health and Safety Specialist Operations Manager

Corporate Sustainability Program Manager

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Diversion ReportingWaste Audit PlanningContract ReviewBehavior Change CommunicationComposting Operations BasicsRecycling Market AwarenessSpreadsheet Proficiency

Development SuggestionsBuild comfort with basic reporting, learn how to plan and run a waste audit, and practice clear training and signage. Strengthen vendor and contract fundamentals, and learn local recycling and organics rules to reduce contamination and improve diversion results.

Market Intelligence Report

Waste Diversion Coordinator is part of the Business Operations category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 40,000 to 55,000

Mid LevelUSD 55,000 to 75,000

Senior LevelUSD 75,000 to 95,000

Growth Trend

Steady growth driven by corporate sustainability goals, city and state waste policies, and rising disposal costs. Demand is strongest in large facilities, campuses, and commercial property portfolios.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Waste ManagementRepublic ServicesClean HarborsAramarkSodexoCBREJLLCushman and WakefieldUniversities and CollegesCity and County Governments

Industry Sectors

Waste and Recycling ServicesFacilities ManagementCommercial Real EstateHealthcareHigher EducationManufacturingHospitalityLocal Government

Recommended Next Steps

Run a baseline waste audit and document top materials by volume

Create a simple diversion dashboard with monthly tons and contamination notes

Standardize bin labels and signage across all waste stations

Schedule quarterly training sessions for frontline staff and building users

Meet with haulers to confirm what is accepted and update guidance

Pilot an organics collection program in a high volume area like a cafeteria

Document procedures for event waste setups and cleanups

Pursue an entry level sustainability or waste certificate relevant to your region