MISSION TO METRICS

The mission of The Ocean Cleanup is to develop technology to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. To intercept plastic in rivers before it can reach the ocean, we develop Interceptor technologies to be deployed in rivers around the world.

The Catch Management team is responsible for what happens with the waste after it has been extracted from rivers. The goal is to maximize the value of our catch while preventing it from going back to the environment. The job of the River Waste Valorization manager is to look for opportunities to create revenue streams for the waste to ensure financial viability of the Interceptor operations (executed by our partners). The locations where we operate often lack adequate waste management infrastructure, so suitable solutions need to be developed. By executing pilot projects, the River Waste Valorization Manager will develop strategies and methodologies that are scalable to our projects globally.

“We are looking for a River Waste Valorization Manager who understands the challenges of the local context of our River projects and is able to translate this into pragmatic waste valorization solutions that are technically feasible and financially viable.” - Stella van den Berg, Catch Management Director

RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and execute River Waste Valorization pilot projects with the goal of generating revenue streams to ensure financial viability of our partners' Interceptor operations by;
- Propose solutions following our Waste Management guidelines, including the Waste Hierarchy;
- Build a network of technology providers for waste sorting & recycling;
Develop business models for River Waste Valorization;
Develop a portfolio of plug & play solutions for River Waste Valorization;
Develop a toolbox for River Waste Valorization, including waste composition dashboards, market price database, and valorization dashboards;
Develop methodologies, tools, and templates to be used by the Waste Managers in the River projects.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

At least 5 years of relevant work experience in plastic sorting and/or recycling projects
Understanding of the international waste management landscape, including the availability of recycling technologies, regulations, trends, and players;
A general understanding of waste sorting operations and small-scale equipment configurations would also be beneficial.
Proven experience in project management and financial modeling of business cases
Academic-level thinking and communication skills
Ability to manage and lead a pipeline of opportunities from ideation to successful delivery
Relevant international experience (preferably Asia, Latin America, and/or Africa)
Proven track record in creating/managing planning and budget control
A degree (BSc/MSc) in a relevant field (environmental sciences, environmental engineering, environmental economics, sustainable business).

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

You are a self-starter with an analytical and data-driven approach to problem-solving;
You are always ready to improvise, pragmatic, and bring plans on track when they face adversities;
You can work on a strategic level as well as get things done on the ground;
You have excellent communication and social skills, including a strong cultural awareness and ability to communicate on all levels;
You are curious and willing to travel (abroad) for site visits regularly. A driving license B is required;
You have a strong command of the English language, verbal and written. Spanish is preferred;
You are accurate and have an eye for detail;
And above all: an intrinsic motivation to work on our ambitious and meaningful mission.

Please note: because we are a non-profit, our salaries reflect that of an organization fully reliant on donations rather than that of a commercial entity. Conducting a pre-employment check is part of our recruitment process.

Curious to hear how it is to work at The Ocean Cleanup? Listen to our team members explain their work in our podcast.

Starting from:: July 2023
Work permit needed:: European Union; A valid European Union work permit is highly preferred for this position. However, feel free to send an open application so we can contact you if an opportunity arises in your country.