Venor is proud to partner with Circular Materials in their search for an Operations Specialist to join their team based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The position is remote; however will involve frequent travel to a Material Recovery Facility located in Halifax. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organization at the forefront of modernizing recycling in the region.
Circular Materials is a national producer-led not-for-profit organization that supports producers in meeting their obligations under extended producer responsibility regulations across Canada. They are committed to building efficient and effective recycling systems to minimize waste and ensure materials are reused again and again. Through the support of their founders and member producers, Circular Materials is implementing a national harmonized approach focused on improving recovery rates, meeting the needs and expectations of consumers, and protecting the natural environment.
The organization is growing its team to support these critical operations. This role is primarily analytical in nature, with a strong focus on the post-collection processes. The Operations Specialist will spend most of their time at a new, highly automated Material Recovery Facility (MRF) currently under construction in Halifax — set to go live in June 2027 — monitoring operations, analyzing data, and ensuring performance standards are met.
What You’ll Be Doing:
Reporting to the Senior Manager, Transition – Atlantic, the Operations Specialist will be responsible for supporting a broad range of activities related to recycling operations across Atlantic Canada. Key responsibilities include:
- Monitoring and tracking operations across the region through site visits, inspections, data and contamination tracking, and volume analysis to support rationalization and inform Communications and Marketing efforts.
- Gathering and analyzing best practices across mainly the post-collection process network and making recommendations for continuous improvement.
- Collecting data, conducting analysis, and preparing accurate, timely, and data-driven reports that are actionable and results-focused.
- Supporting the development of performance requirements for collection and post-collection operations, including drafting statements of work and tender documents.
- Developing and implementing standard operating procedures, facility inspection protocols, and related documentation.
- Overseeing and participating in activities such as bale audits and waste composition studies to improve diversion performance across collection, transportation, processing, and materials marketing.
- Developing an understanding of material quality auditing processes and supporting Material Quality staff as required, including coverage during vacation periods.
- Developing a thorough understanding of both contractual performance requirements and the regulatory framework associated with Extended Producer Responsibility legislation in Atlantic Canada.
- Monitoring relationships with contracted service providers to identify risks and proactively anticipate and resolve issues.
- Collaborating with the National Operations team on continuous improvement initiatives.
- Supervising and supporting special projects as required, and attending events and third-party meetings as needed.
What We Are Looking For
The ideal candidate brings a combination of operational experience in recycling or waste management, strong analytical skills, and the ability to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. The following qualifications are being sought:
Education & Experience
- Post-secondary education in environmental studies, business or program administration, engineering technology, or related discipline, and/or equivalent experience.
- 4+ years of relevant experience. While waste management experience would be considered a strong asset, we will also consider candidates from industries with similar operational complexity. This may include ports and terminal operations, rail logistics, third-party logistics (3PL), warehousing and distribution, container transportation, intermodal operations, or other asset-intensive environments involving complex material movement, logistics coordination, and supply chain networks.
- Strong analytical and data management skills, such as Excel, are required.
- Direct experience or knowledge of PPP recycling programs, stewardship programs, or related fields is considered an asset.
Knowledge, Competencies & Skills
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to conduct detailed analysis and provide clear summaries and recommendations.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with external stakeholders, internal teams, and across all levels of the organization.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment where change, growth, and innovation are constant.
- Experience managing competing priorities within a complex, multi-faceted operational environment.
- Knowledge of waste management, materials management, commodity markets, and logistics or related operational business activities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, including Excel, SharePoint, and Teams.
- Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving, planning, and execution skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to effectively create and implement project plans.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel within Atlantic Canada for site inspections and partner meetings.
Working Hours & Conditions
- This is a full-time position working 40 hours per work week and not less than 37.5 hours per work week. Typical work hours occur Monday to Friday between 8 am and 5 pm within home time zone, with schedule flexibility required to provide for working across time zones and extended working hours to meet deadlines.
- This role will require coordinating and meeting with internal and external stakeholders in multiple Canadian time zones.
Remote and/or Field Work
- Remote and Field Work is required.
- Remote working environment with the ability to travel as needed.
Travel
- Requires travel within Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to meet with collection, transportation and processing partners and conduct site inspections.
- A valid driver’s license is required.
At Venor and Circular Materials, we embrace a culture of belonging in the workplace. No matter who you are, where you’re from, how you think, what you believe in, or who you love, we welcome your application. We all come from different backgrounds and different walks of life, bringing in unique perspectives and experiences. We encourage applications from 2SLGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC), women, newcomers to Canada, and people with disabilities.
Work Location: On the road
