Sustainability Specialist

About the job

Pay Band Information

To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The UNC Institute for the Environment (IE) has a multifaceted mission: (1) To strengthen environmental research capacity across UNC by supporting a multi-disciplinary community of scholars that enhances collaboration, increases sharing of knowledge, and identifies solutions to the world’s critical environmental problems. (2) To work in partnership across UNC and with external partners to coordinate and deliver 21st century educational programs that provide students with the experience and skills to thrive in a growing global economy. (3) To put new environmental knowledge into action by engaging and serving communities, here in North Carolina and around the world. (4) To fuel and harness the university’s sustainability activities through the Sustainable Carolina Initiative

Position Summary

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

The Sustainability Specialist supports Sustainable Carolina’s mission by assisting with programs, projects, and reporting that advance the University’s sustainability goals. This position collaborates with students, faculty, staff, and external partners to support energy conservation, waste reduction, sustainable building practices, and other environmental priorities.

The position collects, validates, analyzes, and reports sustainability data to track University performance, support greenhouse gas accounting, and evaluate program effectiveness. Responsibilities include preparing information for the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (AASHE STARS), reviewing greenhouse gas inventory data using established protocols, and supporting alignment with applicable sustainability standards and reporting requirements.

The Sustainability Specialist also provides technical assistance for sustainable building design and operations, supports updates to the University’s Climate Action Plan, and assists with project coordination, communications, and outreach. Findings and recommendations are prepared for Sustainability leadership review to inform sustainability planning and operational

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Four year degree with a preference for a related major in a physical science, biological science, environmental science/engineering, occupational safety, industrial technology or closely related science; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Some positions may require specific certifications or licenses. Specific jobs will require additional minimum training and/or licensing upon selection.

Management Preferences

• Knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainability standards, with the ability to research applicable requirements and comparable programs or practices.

• Relevant sustainability credentials or completion of training related to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), or university-based sustainability certificate programs.

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.