CES Project Assistant, Community Environmental Services, Portland State University https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ERjUjoTvzyi0ZVcGdN5B5n_P_5EdUF1M-vdW8WNJF74/edit?usp=sharing (link need PSU student password)
Hiring: Ongoing
Application review and interviews begin immediately
Position Description
Community Environmental Services (CES, https://www.pdx.edu/ces/) a program of the Center for Public
Service (CPS) at Portland State University (PSU) is recruiting applicants to fill multiple hourly wage Project
Assistant positions. CES seeks highly organized, self-motivated students interested in gaining hands-on
experience working in sustainable materials management projects, including assessing materials to
recommend waste prevention strategies, outreach to businesses, and technical assistance to local
governments. For over 30 years CES has worked directly with governments, educational institutions, and
private-sector partners to develop and improve materials sustainability programs, through education,
technical assistance, and research.
The preferred candidate will be familiar with recycling and solid waste systems, have experience working in a
professional office environment and in the field, and is interested in improving sustainability practices. A high
level of dedication, rigorous hands-on fieldwork, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are all
crucial aspects of this position. Students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs such as urban
planning, community development, public administration, urban studies, environmental studies, or other
relevant fields are encouraged to apply. Applicants must maintain student status at PSU, with preference
given to applicants continuing their studies for one (1) year or more.
Compensation: Positions start at $15.00 per hour. Starting wage may be higher depending on experience.
Some projects may pay higher rates dependent upon performance and program continuation.
Hourly Commitment: Variable, approximately 5-20 hours per week, depending on project load.
Appointment Term: Minimum nine month commitment from start date (ex. October 2021 - June 2022).
Preference for students available for more than one year.
CES Projects
For a complete list of projects, check out https://www.pdx.edu/community-environmental-services/projects.
Hourly Project Assistants focus on:
● Metro Decal project - removing and replacing signs and labels at multifamily homes
● Rate setting field work - weighing materials for local governments
● Community outreach - communicating recycling information to businesses in Fairview and
Troutdale
● Material assessments - team waste audits for offices and other organizations
Responsibilities
● Execute on-site data collection and technical assistance (e.g. weighing single family waste carts,
updating signs and labels at apartment complexes)
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● Assist project coordinators with data entry, analysis, and reporting (e.g., record on-site information
on an ipad using an app or Excel spreadsheet)
● Conduct educational outreach and program promotion to businesses and organizations in the
Portland metro area (e.g. calling or visiting local businesses to provide promotional materials for a
business recycling program)
Requirements
● Must be enrolled in PSU undergraduate or graduate program currently and into 2022
● High competency with MS Word, MS Excel, Google Suite
● Able to commit to some weekend hours and early weekday morning shifts (e.g., at least once every
3 months, 6am - 9am shift)
Preferred Qualifications
● Competent working independently as well as on a team
● Strong communication and organization skills
● Ability to think critically about data, synthesize findings, and make recommendations
● Ability to conduct outreach and engage in conversations with community members
● Interest in engaging community through social and visual media (i.e. Instagram)
How to Apply:
Please complete the CES Project Assistant Application form.
Community Environmental Services Project Assistant Application: https://forms.gle/N6VLBf55yzHZtzUm9
If you have any questions, please contact Program Administrator, Hannah Carleson: cesadmin@pdx.edu.
Please put “CES Project Assistant” in the subject line of the email.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The deadline for applications is October 31, 2021.
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