You are the key to a more sustainable, thriving Westport. Join the movement, bring your ideas and energy, and help preserve this beautiful place we call home!
Volunteer Positions
Below is a list of our current Leadership Volunteer Positions. Not sure how you want to get involved but interested in helping promote sustainability in our community? Fill out the general volunteer form to raise your hand.
TEAM LEADER, RESTAURANT CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Time commitment: Initially, 2-5 hours per week, but increasing as more restaurants join the certification process.
Job responsibilities:
- Education and outreach with respect to Westport restaurants and businesses regarding waste evaluation services provided by the Center for EcoTechnology (CET).
- Coordinating, facilitating and participating in on-site visits conducted by CET and following up with commercial food scrap haulers as needed so that restaurants and businesses engage in food scrap diversion.
- Administering and reviewing the application and certification process for Sustainable Westport Restaurant Certification, including quarterly check-ins with restaurants who have met the initial qualifications, answering questions about the program and marketing the program.
- Running SW Restaurant Certification Working Group meetings, including soliciting ideas on how to encourage more applicants, grow interest in the program, and elevate the requirements and strengthen ties with other local stakeholders.
Requirements:
- A high level of organization and follow through and strong interpersonal and communication skills. Interest in the environment and waste reduction and making a difference at a local level.
- Prior restaurant or retail management experience is a plus.
Interested applicants should email info@sustainablewestport.org
POLICY RESEARCH ANALYST
Time commitment: 2-10 hours per week
Responsibilities:
- Research Connecticut state and municipal regulations relating to various environmental and resiliency issues affecting coastal communities. For example, tree regulations (i.e., restrictions on clear-cutting land and cutting down mature trees, requirements to replace with native species), restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers and other landscaping equipment, restrictions on development in flood areas, requirements for new construction regarding EV chargers and electrification capacity and readiness.
- Correspond with and advise (with support and oversight!) various municipal departments such as the Town’s Planning & Zoning Department, Department of Public Works, Conservation Department, and the Director of Operations.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (pre-law a plus) with an interest in legal, regulatory and legislative research at a local level.
- Strong research and writing skills. Pro-active as opposed to reactive.
- Ability and interest to understand legal concepts and communicate with a wide range of people.
- Westport resident preferable.
Interested applicants should email info@sustainablewestport.org