Waste Picker Coordinator

WHO WE ARE

The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) is a global network working towards a just and waste-free world without incineration. GAIA’s mission is to catalyze a global shift towards environmental justice by strengthening grassroots social movements that advance solutions to waste and pollution. We envision a just, zero waste world built on respect for ecological limits and community rights, where people are free from the burden of toxic pollution, and resources are sustainably conserved, not burned or dumped.

THE ROLE 

The Waste Picker Organizer is a new position with GAIA’s global team. As the Organizer, you will devote yourself to supporting and working with GAIA’s waste picker member organizations. Waste picker organizations are integral GAIA members, with a particular role to play in the establishment of inclusive zero waste. The Organizer will support waste picker engagement in two important global processes that are happening simultaneously, as well as movement-building and internal strengthening work.

Negotiations are currently under way to agree the world’s first, legally binding, multilateral treaty on plastics. Waste pickers have been recognized as a key actor in this sphere, and have won strong support for their demands for a just transition. This is policy-focused work involving international negotiations, building alignment among waste picker organizations and allies, and advocating for specific policy and finance proposals. 

In the climate context, there is renewed attention on landfill methane, and waste pickers are well positioned to provide solutions to organic waste through separate collection, composting, etc. This work calls for developing concrete projects and proposals. 

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Build and maintain strong relationships with leadership of the International Alliance of Waste Pickers and RedLacre. 
• Provide strategic direction to GAIA’s waste picker engagement work.
• Take the lead in alignment-building between waste picker and environmental groups.
• Provide a direct channel of communication between waste picker leadership and GAIA staff in multiple programs and regions.
• Accompany and facilitate delegations of waste pickers to international meetings, such as the International Negotiating Committee for the global plastics treaty.
• Support waste pickers in the development of policy positions and in policy analysis.
• Work with waste picker representatives to formulate projects and proposals to be financed as part of a just transition and the establishment of socially just material management systems.
• Work with waste picker representatives to formulate projects and proposals to reduce landfill methane emissions through organic waste management. 
• Represent GAIA in discussions with waste pickers, including the International Alliance of Waste Pickers,  and in international spaces.
• Support communications work, including both earned and social media. 
• Represent waste picker interests, as authorized.
• Contribute to and leverage GAIA research and member work. 
• Provide or coordinate translation support to waste picker leaders, as needed. 

WHO YOU ARE

Specifically, this hire will bring:

• At least 3-5 years’ experience working in social justice or environmental justice networks or coalitions
• Excellent English and Spanish oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to self-manage
• A track record of successful remote work
• Ability to travel internationally frequently
• Experience working with grassroots organizations
• Experience working with teams from diverse cultural backgrounds in a way that is sensitive to different communication styles and values community wisdom
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Comfort with online platforms and ability to quickly learn new digital tools
• Demonstrated commitment to environmental, climate, and/or social justice
• Ability to attend meetings  in multiple time zones including frequent early morning or late night meetings

We would prefer candidates who:

• Are experienced in leading through change and ambiguity
• Demonstrate flexibility and resourcefulness
• Demonstrate fluency in additional languages

COMPENSATION, LOCATION, AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Compensation depends on experience and location.

• This position will work closely with our Latin America, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions, and as such we ideally prefer someone be based within those regions. However, we will consider applicants with strong qualifications anywhere in the world.
• Frequent international travel is required (approximately 6 times per year). 
• Full COVID-19 vaccination is required for GAIA employees who travel and attend in-person meetings for GAIA.
• Work is performed both independently and collaboratively. Work is performed on a computer, requires almost constant use of a keyboard, mouse, or other pointing device and may be performed sitting or standing.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

We are committed to equal employment opportunity principles and providing all employees with a safe work environment free from discrimination and harassment. We welcome you regardless of your race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, age, physical ability, nationality, or any other status unrelated to the performance of the job and protected by law. GAIA practices affirmative action, and candidates from historically disadvantaged or marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

TO APPLY

Apply online at https://www.careers-page.com/gaia/job/L334X678 only. Please include a resume and cover letter. Position will be open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the first round of interviews will commence quickly.