Recycling and Program Specialist I

About the role

As a Recycling and Program Specialist I with the City of Corona’s Utilities Department, you'll play a key role in supporting and advancing residential and municipal recycling and waste reduction efforts. Under guidance, you’ll assist in developing and implementing recycling programs and policies, conduct research on current trends and best practices, and prepare educational materials and grant documents that drive community awareness and engagement. You’ll also provide critical support during outreach events, respond to public inquiries, and conduct regular site visits to ensure compliance with recycling and waste regulations. By maintaining recycling program data, preparing reports, and aiding in staff and volunteer training, you’ll help lay the foundation for Corona’s growing sustainability initiatives. This entry-level position provides an exceptional opportunity to grow your expertise in environmental programs while contributing to a cleaner, greener city.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and implementing recycling programs and policies.
• Conduct research on current trends and best practices in recycling and waste reduction.
• Prepare educational materials and grant documents to promote community awareness and engagement.
• Provide support during outreach events and respond to public inquiries.
• Conduct regular site visits to ensure compliance with recycling and waste regulations.
• Maintain recycling program data and prepare reports.
• Aid in staff and volunteer training related to recycling and sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education

• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade, supplemented by specialized training in waste management, sustainability, environmental science, public administration, or a related field.

Experience

• One (1) year of experience in recycling, waste management, or a related field is desirable.

Licenses and Certifications

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License, to be maintained throughout employment.

About the Department

The Utilities Department is dedicated to providing high-quality water, reclaimed water, sewer, and electric services to the community. With a strong commitment to public health and environmental sustainability, the department ensures reliable infrastructure and innovative solutions for water efficiency. Residents benefit from customer-focused programs, including rebate initiatives and conservation efforts designed to enhance resource management.

About the Organization

The City of Corona is a General Law city operating under a Council-Manager form of government. Policy making and legislative authority is vested in the City Council, consisting of a Mayor and four Council Members. The City is organized into multiple departments, including Community Services, City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal and Risk Management, Police, Planning & Development, Public Works, and Utilities.

The City's total operating budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is $422.7 million with a General Fund operating budget of $231.3 million. Corona employs 935 dedicated staff who provide high-quality services to residents and visitors.

About the Community

A city with a heritage spanning more than 125 years, the City of Corona is located in Riverside County, California, and encompasses approximately 40 square miles. It has a vibrant, culturally diverse population of approximately 170,000. Residents enjoy a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities that provide a first-rate quality of life. Within an hour's travel time, outdoor enthusiasts can access winter activities such as snowboarding and skiing, as well as summer activities including surfing, boating, or relaxing on world-class beaches.

Corona’s economy is strong, with over 84,000 people employed locally. The city continues to expand its retail, commercial, housing, and office development sectors.

Physical and Mental Demands

For details on physical and mental demands, as well as the work environment, refer to the provided job description.

This position is FLSA Non-Exempt and eligible for overtime compensation.