Plastics Director

Role Overview 

This position will lead high-impact technical evaluations and analysis that will support CAA strategy to meet plastic recycling targets as defined in legislation. The Director will collaborate closely with executive leadership to identify areas for operational improvement, guide investments in technology, and deliver actionable insights. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Oversee comprehensive technical evaluations of both existing and emerging plastic recycling technologies, including mechanical and chemical recycling.
• Serve as CAA’s lead expert on independent and peer-reviewed scientific studies related to chemical recycling technologies, assessing their feasibility and potential applications
• Identify opportunities for improvement in current recycling operations, focusing on throughput efficiency, waste minimization, and energy reduction.
• Stay current on global trends, scientific advancements, and best practices in plastic recycling and sustainability.
• Lead the collection, synthesis, and analysis of technical data to support strategic decision-making around technology adoption and process optimization.
• Use data-driven insights to recommend operational enhancements and cost-saving initiatives that align with legislative goals and environmental standards.
• Prepare and present technical findings, recommendations, and updates to the VP of Material Services and other CAA executives.
• Support executive communications with external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, industry partners, and community organizations.
• Contribute to policy development by translating complex technical data into actionable policy and program recommendations.
• Other job-related duties as assigned

Skills & Competencies 

• Demonstrated expertise in chemical recycling technologies and lifecycle assessments.
• Proven track record of leading complex technical evaluations and communicating results to senior leadership.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of Environmental Regulations: Familiarity with local, state, and federal waste management and recycling laws and policies.
• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders, including government officials, service providers, and the public.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical skills to assess program performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Uses professional and effective judgment and decision-making skills rooted in logic and sound reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternate approaches, solutions, or conclusions.  
• Demonstrated ability to work in a dynamic environment where change, growth and innovation are a constant. 
• Experience working in a complex, multi-faceted environment with several competing priorities. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, including SharePoint, Teams, Monday.com, WorkDay, and Salesforce.
• Excellent attention to detail, with analytical, problem solving, planning, and execution skills. 
• Effective communications skills which can build relationships with communities, and internal CAA teams at all levels of the CAA organizational structure. 
• Team player with a professional, disciplined, and self-directed approach.   

Education and Experience 

• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Materials Science, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in plastics recycling, waste management, or a related technical field

Compensation & Other Information 

• Location: Initially Fully Remote 
• Salary range is based on a variety of factors in accordance with applicable law, including the successful candidate’s relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and work location. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefits, life insurance, retirement, and paid time off. 
• Reports To: VP of Material Services

Circular Action Alliance is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you require accommodation as part of the application process, please contact careers@circularaction.org listed below.