Department of Civil Service

Description:

The Food Waste & Compost Program Assistant will assist the Organics Reduction and Recycling section. Potential tasks include, but are not limited to:
* Researching and analyzing the accessibility of composting opportunities for New York State residents, especially in environmental justice communities.
* Researching opportunities for partnerships with New York States farming community in regards to organics recycling and the use of compost on agricultural lands
* Updating NYS Food Donation & Food Scraps Recycling law business database
* Research and develop guidance for starting a food scraps drop-off program

Background Information:
The Organics Reduction & Recycling section works to divert organics (food waste, yard waste, biosolids, etc.) away from landfills and instead to beneficial use. They accomplish this through
- Regulatory oversight and technical assistance of organics recycling facilities (composting, anaerobic digestion, land application etc.)
- Legislative Advocacy
- Development of funding programs
- Outreach and education

They are also charged with implementing the NYS Food Donation & Food Scraps Recycling law which will require businesses that generate 2 tons of wasted food per week or more to donate as much as they can and recycle the remaining food scraps if they are within 25 miles of a food scraps recycler (compost, anaerobic digestion, etc.).

This is a remote internship from May 12 - August 12 (start date, end date, and hours required are flexible). Typical work hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 - 4:30pm. Required hours should be completed during that time. Must have a computer/laptop to work remotely.

Skills:

Writing

Research

Data Analysis

Internship Areas: Environmental Conservation, Planning/Analysis/Research, Public Policy, Scientific Research