Director for Sustainable Biosolids Programs
Published on by Trudi Schifter, CEO and Founder AquaSPE for Water Environment Federation (WEF)
Director for Sustainable Biosolids Programs to Provide Reliable, Timely Advice for the Water Sector
The Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of 35,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations representing water quality professionals around the world. Since 1928, WEF and its members have protected public health and the environment. As a global water sector leader, our mission is to connect water professionals; enrich the expertise of water professionals; increase the awareness of the impact and value of water; and provide a platform for water sector innovation.
WEF is interested in hiring a full-time senior professional to serve as Director for Sustainable Biosolids Programs address challenges and sustain beneficial use of biosolids.
Background
Through Manuals of Practice (MOPs), publications, conferences, and educational opportunities, WEF provides reliable consensus information and practical advice for water professionals. This information and advice address a variety of topics including the operation and maintenance of Water Resource Recovery Facilities (wastewater treatment plants), collection systems, and the management of biosolids. WEF also serves as a technical advisor to federal and state regulatory agencies and as an advocate for science-based policies that are protective of public health and the environment. More information about WEF and our activities can be found on our website at www.wef.org
Biosolids production, treatment and management is a core function of WRRFs. A 2015 WEF survey revealed biosolids management as one of the most important concerns of WEF members. When asked if utilities are well prepared at the local level to address challenges for their biosolids program, 100% of respondents answered “No.”
Role of the Director for Sustainable Biosolids Programs
- Act as a central coordinator on national biosolids issues for WEF members and the larger sector, in concert with WEF’s Member Associations (Mas) and Regional Biosolids Organizations (RBOs)
- Facilitate and, when necessary, take a leadership role on national biosolids policy development and regulatory issues by connecting and supporting RBOs, WEF MA Biosolids Committees, National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), and local stakeholders, advocating for additional resources where needed.
- On the local level, work directly with utility biosolids managers, RBOs and WEF MA Biosolids Committees to actively engage the media and other stakeholders in response to utility challenges, while having them take the lead locally.
- Actively assist member utilities and RBOs facing local and regional challenges to their biosolids programs
- Proactively identify issues before they rise to levels of national concern by monitoring and advance research relating to biosolids safety and efficacy, with a focus on the myriad benefits of biosolids use
- Proactively develop revenue opportunities to support biosolids and other WEF activities
- Assume a national proactive leadership role on topics such as PFAS, microplastics, GlobalGAP, USDA Organic farming regulations, and key research priorities put forth by the W4170, a national research consortium.
Terms of Engagement
WEF anticipates an initial funding commitment of two years for this role, during which time we will be working to design a sustainable, long-term model for inclusion of this expertise. This long-term plan will help define the role WEF can proactively play in engaging national and international consortiums such as Global Gap, OMRI, the Sierra Club and the European Commission whose current positions impact the public’s understanding and acceptance, and the use of biosolids.
Logistics
This position can be located anywhere within the continental United States, provided the director can be available during core business hours through remote technology. Salary is commensurate with experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest and a short CV to:
Dr. Barry Liner
Chief Technical Officer
Water Environment Federation
601 Wythe St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
Email submissions are strongly encouraged. WEF is happy to discuss this opportunity further with interested candidates.
Information
- Location: Alexandria, United States
Industry experience
Education: Bachelor
Seniority: Expert, Engineer, Consultant
Taxonomy
- Biosorption
- Solid Waste Management
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
- biosolids