Sustainability Program Assistant
Passionate about sustainability? Join us for hands-on in-person experience in energy efficiency, solid waste reduction and recycling, water conservation, climate adaptation and carbon sequestration, and community outreach. Shape a greener Martinezapply today and make an impact!
Under the direction of the Community and Economic Development Department, the position will provide experience in the growing area of municipal sustainability programs. The candidate will assist with coordination, outreach, and research relating to implementation of the City's Climate Action Plan ("CAP") and sustainability programs.
Flexible hours up to 20 hours per week. Maximum 1,000hours per fiscal year. This position is not eligible for City benefits.
Tentative Interviews (in-person): Monday, August 17, 2026
Representative Duties
This position supports a range of sustainability programs, with primary emphasis on planning and implementation of ongoing grant-funded recycling projects, including the award-winning Martinez School District Recycling Program.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting in the planning and implementation of recycling and waste reduction initiatives funded through grants;
- Researching greenhouse gas emissions reductions strategies, and providing CAP implementation recommendations;
- Supporting public outreach efforts to residents, businesses, and schools by staffing community events, creating educational materials (flyers, articles, social media content, and press releases), and conducting site visits;
- Assisting with grant administration, including planning, development, tracking progress, and supporting reporting requirements;
- Identifying and researching potential funding opportunities related to the City's CAP goals;
- Coordinating with regional groups and partners such as New Leaf Collaborative, Sustainable Contra Costa, and Contra Costa County, and attending meetings as necessary;
- Assisting with planning and execution of public sustainability workshops;
- Responding to inquiries received from the public by phone, email, and in person;
- Assisting with updates and enhancement of sustainability/conservation-related topics on City's website; and
- Performing other duties as assigned pertaining to sustainability and implementation of the City's CAP.
Qualifications/Education/Experience
Minimum: Recent college graduation or current college student status with at least two years of college-accredited coursework; proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Power Point (experience with web content management software, Canva, and/or creating printed materials is preferred); possession of a valid CA driver's license; ability to successfully pass background check.
Knowledge and Abilities: Knowledge of modern office procedures and equipment; knowledge of correct English usage, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary; ability to perform arithmetic calculations; ability to follow written and oral instructions; ability to communicate with and serve the general public; ability to work effectively with fellow employees; general understanding of environmental issues and sustainability. General familiarity with energy efficiency, waste reduction, and other sustainability best practices.
Supplemental Information
Application Screening: Applications, resumes, supplemental questionnaire and/or other required documentation will be evaluated on a comparative basis. Those individuals whose materials best indicate possession of the stated requirements, may be invited to continue to the next step in the selection process.
Supplemental Questionnaire: All applicants are required to complete the questionnaire. This questionnaire will be used throughout the examination process to assist in determining each applicant's qualifications and acceptability for the position.
Important Dates:
Recruitment closing: Sunday, August 2, 2026
Tentative Interviews (in-person): Monday, August 17, 2026
Disabled Applicants: The Human Resources Division will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate disabled applicants. Please advise the Division of any special needs in advance of the examination.
Verification of Employment Eligibility: As mandated by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all candidates offered employment after November 6, 1986, must provide written proof that establishes identity and eligibility to work in the United States. This is accomplished by completing the Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) and producing acceptable documents including but not limited to, United States Passport; State-issued Driver's License; Social Security Card; Birth Certificate; other acceptable documents that establish identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
The City of Martinez has adopted Ordinance 1057 C.S. which provides employees with a smoke-free working environment. The information contained herein is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or an implied contract. The City of Martinez is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disabilities in conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.