Innovation Program Lead

ABOUT THE ROLE The New York City Department of Sanitation, Resource Recovery Division (RRD) within the Bureau of Solid Waste Management, is seeking an experienced policy researcher to serve as an Innovation Program Lead. This role focuses on waste reduction, diversion programs, and sustainability goals, specifically supporting the implementation of the City’s 2026 Solid Waste Management Plan. The successful candidate will apply applied research, data analysis, and technology understanding to innovate towards a circular economy. Responsibilities include researching global waste management policies, managing waste composition studies, analyzing operational performance, and preparing comprehensive reports and presentations for program improvement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Research waste management policies and programs across the US and internationally to identify new innovations - Prepare documentation, statistics, and analyses for reporting and program improvements - Manage the execution of waste composition research studies, including field operations potentially in outdoor environments - Monitor and provide frequent updates and analyses of local, state, and federal circular economy and resource recovery policies - Prepare comprehensive presentations on the status of Bureau programs (including charts, graphs, and tables) and the results of research studies - Participate in the implementation and tracking of the city’s Solid Waste Management Plan - Support other Bureau functions as needed, which may require occasional evening or weekend work MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must meet the requirements for Assignment Level I or higher: - Assignment Level I: A master's degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, or environmental science, or in public health. - Assignment Level II and above: Candidates must have at least a master's degree in an appropriate field of specialization and at least two years of experience. Specific pathways include: - A doctorate degree in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental, or social science and one year of full-time experience in a responsible supervisory, administrative, or research capacity; or - A master's degree in an appropriate field and three years of responsible full-time research experience in the appropriate field of specialization; or - Education and/or experience equivalent to the above. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can be substituted for the required experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - No exam is required for this position - Appointments are subject to a minimum probationary period of one year - Possession of a New York State Motor Vehicle Driver’s License is preferred - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment, though exceptions may apply for employees with two continuous years of service who reside in specific surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange) - Preferred skills include strong communication, administrative, organizational, and data management skills, as well as proficiency in MS Word and Excel SELECTION PROCESS - No exam is required - Selection is based on qualifications and fit for the role HOW TO APPLY - Submit application through the designated channel for the Department of Sanitation Innovation Program Lead position (Reference ID: 21744) EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Full-Time position - Department: B W D Headquarters (Department of Sanitation) - Location: NYC-All Boros - Posted Date: 06/30/2026 - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment - Employees may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs (Public Service Loan Forgiveness) and state repayment assistance programs