Sustainability Administrator

~ As a coastal community, the City of North Miami is susceptible to various threats associated with climate change and flooding. ~

As reflected in the adoption of a Climate Change Element as part of its Comprehensive Plan, the City has made sustainability one of its main priorities. The aim of this Element is to promote energy efficiency, implement greenhouse gas reduction strategies, promote sustainable development, formulate strategies to address the shocks and stresses associated with climate change and strengthen collaboration locally and regionally in order to educate the public on the changing needs and conditions of the community.

Position Overview

The Sustainability Administrator plays a key role in implementing the City's Climate Change vision. As such, this position requires a knowledgeable and creative individual who is passionate about sustainability and has experience working with government agencies in implementing sustainability programs.

As a member of the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) a Florida Green Building Coalition-certified Green Local Government and a designated Tree City USA municipality, the Sustainability Administrator works closely with other key departments and establishes partnerships with various public and private agencies to ensure the City's sustainability initiatives are successfully achieved. This individual will engage the public through various mediums while working to raise awareness on key environmental issues, promote resiliency and advocate for green development.

This position will seek out alliances with other organizations locally and internationally in order to acquire greater insight regarding funding opportunities and resources that will help prepare the city to tackle environmental issues while cutting cost and increasing revenues.

Responsibilities

• Review proposed developments, building permits and make recommendations for sustainable strategies consistent with the City's Street Tree management Plan, LDRs and Comprehensive Plan.  
• Work closely with other departments, City Boards and special magistrate to provide expert testimony regarding tree issues, protection and crime prevention through environmental design.
• Implement policies and procedures to ensure advancement of city-wide sustainability initiatives focused on: Climate Change, Recycling, Water Efficiency, Sustainable Site Management, and Sustainable Purchasing.
• Good knowledge of plant material common to urban forestry; ability to identify common tree and landscape plant species, and signs and symptoms of insects and diseases; on all City green spaces.
• Serve as the internal point person and "go to" expert for landscape improvement, tree management, energy and sustainability, monitoring emerging trends, programs and issues, communicating and educating others on relevant topics.
• Create engaging and informative communications materials, e-newsletters and educational resources to inform City residents and businesses on environmental issues and initiatives.
• Aide in the development of innovative environmental initiatives and programs that educate employees on environmental safety and new policies aimed at achieving sustainability.
• Develop a database of various available energy and sustainability incentive programs; analyze projects in relation to total life cost and prepare proposals for presentation to city council.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Urban Forestry, Environmental Studies, Biology or Energy Management.
• Plus a minimum of 3 years relevant work experience.

OR

• An equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skill and abilities.

Additional Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience implementing and managing "Green/Sustainable" programs.
• Familiarity with most recent local, state and federal energy and sustainability codes, laws and requirements.
• Microsoft office proficiency and Photoshop design skills a plus.
• LEED or Arborist certification preferred.
• CPTED Certification preferred.

Skills:

• Innovative, futuristic thinker, excellent problem solving and planning skills necessary to drive program success.
• Ability to interpret site plans and make landscape or energy efficient recommendations.
• Strong team leadership skills with the ability to work with and motivate others.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Compensation