Waste Management and Recycling Student Specialist

Join Niagara Region's Waste Management Division as a Collection & Diversion Student for an exciting 3-month summer placement from June to August 2026. This full-time position offers valuable hands-on experience in environmental services and public education, working 40 hours per week across five days. You'll be based at the Recycling Centre with regular travel throughout the diverse Niagara region, providing direct support to Collection & Diversion Advisors, Contract Supervisors, and the Supervisor of Collection and Diversion Operations.

This role offers an exceptional opportunity to gain practical experience in waste management operations while serving as a front-line representative of Niagara Region to residents and stakeholders across urban and rural communities.

• Educate residents on proper waste sorting, recycling protocols, and collection procedures
• Provide comprehensive program information and guidance to community members during field visits
• Conduct door-to-door education initiatives to improve compliance and participation rates
• Develop and deliver presentations to community groups and organizations
• Create educational materials and resources for public distribution

• Monitor curbside collection contractor performance to ensure adherence to service standards
• Verify proper bin placement, tagging procedures, and collection limits compliance
• Ensure complete bin emptying and appropriate material handling by collection crews
• Oversee collection of scheduled bulk items and white goods
• Document and report contractor performance issues and non-compliance incidents
• Track problem locations and implement corrective measures

• Provide comprehensive field support to on-road staff and management team
• Conduct regular route inspections and quality assurance checks
• Assist with special collection events and community initiatives
• Respond to resident inquiries and complaints in a professional and timely manner
• Maintain detailed records of field activities and resident interactions
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve operational challenges

• Track and analyze collection data and performance metrics
• Prepare detailed reports on field observations and resident feedback
• Update databases and management systems with current information
• Monitor program effectiveness and suggest improvements

• Ontario High School Diploma (OSSD, SSGD, SSHGD, GED, or provincial/national equivalent)
• Current enrollment in relevant post-secondary program including Environmental Science/Management, Geography, Environmental/Urban Planning, Business Communications, Education, or related field
• Must return to full-time post-secondary studies in Fall 2026
• Proof of current enrollment and high school completion required

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for diverse stakeholder interactions
• Strong independent work capabilities with proven problem-solving skills
• Advanced multitasking, prioritization, and deadline management abilities
• Effective negotiation and persuasion techniques for resident education
• Professional handling of confidential and sensitive information
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Outstanding public relations skills to maintain Niagara Region's positive community image
• Demonstrated ability to work diplomatically with potentially frustrated or upset residents

• Valid, unrestricted Class "G" driver's license with clean driving record
• Authorization to operate regional vehicles and equipment
• CSA-approved, over-the-ankle work boots for safety compliance
• Flexibility to work varying shifts (6:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) including occasional evenings and weekends
• Physical capability to work in outdoor environments and various weather conditions

Niagara Region is committed to being an employer of choice, offering competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. As a student employee, you'll gain access to:

• Defined benefit pension plan participation
• Corporate wellness centre access
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) support
• Professional mentorship and comprehensive training programs
• Employee recognition initiatives and career development opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance
• Exposure to diverse municipal operations and environmental initiatives

Serving over 475,000 residents across urban and rural communities, Niagara Region collaborates with 12 local municipalities to deliver high-quality programs and services. Located between Lakes Erie and Ontario, our region features Canada's most fertile agricultural land, the world-famous Niagara Falls, and communities rich in history and cultural opportunities.

Our dynamic region boasts modern