
Why 2026 Is the Year of Sustainable Tourism- And How You Can Be Part of It
As travelers increasingly prioritize sustainability, destination selection plays a critical role in promoting responsible tourism. Cities have a unique opportunity to influence these decisions by investing in infrastructure that supports low-impact travel and highlighting local green initiatives through destination marketing. Cities like Ljubljana, Slovenia, and Bordeaux, France, have successfully branded themselves as sustainable destinations by integrating environmental objectives into urban planning and tourism strategies. These cities focus on walkability, public transportation, and green spaces, which reduce the environmental footprint of visitors while enhancing their experience1.
Municipal leaders can support this shift by implementing certification programs for local businesses, encouraging eco-labels such as Green Key or EarthCheck. These certifications guide travelers toward accommodations and attractions that meet verified sustainability standards. Local governments can also partner with tourism boards to create digital sustainability maps and itineraries that guide visitors to eco-friendly restaurants, heritage sites, and nature-based experiences. This approach not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also promotes longer stays and increased visitor spending in ways that benefit local economies while safeguarding natural and cultural resources2.
Empowering Local Communities Through Tourism
Sustainable tourism must be community-centered to be truly effective. When residents are actively involved in tourism planning and benefit from its economic impacts, destinations become more resilient and socially inclusive. Municipal governments can support this by fostering public-private partnerships that prioritize local employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector. For example, in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, community-based tourism initiatives have been instrumental in both preserving biodiversity and creating stable income sources for residents3.
In practice, municipal agencies can offer training programs for local guides, artisans, and operators to help them meet international service standards while maintaining cultural authenticity. Cities can also allocate funding or offer microgrants to support start-ups in rural or historically marginalized areas. By integrating community voices into tourism planning committees or advisory councils, local governments ensure that development aligns with resident priorities and avoids the displacement or commodification often associated with mass tourism4.
Reducing Carbon Footprints Without Sacrificing Experience
One of the most practical ways travelers can contribute to sustainable tourism is by minimizing their carbon footprint. For this to be viable at scale, municipalities must invest in low-carbon transportation options and promote regional connectivity. Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have made cycling infrastructure a cornerstone of their tourism strategy, enabling both residents and visitors to move efficiently without relying on cars5. Municipalities can also promote the use of electric shuttle buses in historic districts and expand pedestrian-only zones to reduce vehicle emissions.
From a policy standpoint, local governments can introduce incentives for accommodations that adopt renewable energy systems or implement waste reduction programs. Urban destinations can also collaborate with regional transit authorities to offer integrated ticketing systems that allow tourists to use buses, trains, and ferries seamlessly. These efforts not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance the overall visitor experience by making travel more convenient and environmentally responsible6.
Spotlight on Innovators Driving the Change
Startups and social enterprises are playing a growing role in advancing sustainable travel, often filling gaps where public infrastructure or policy is still catching up. Companies like Byway, a UK-based platform promoting flight-free travel, are redefining how travelers plan their journeys by emphasizing slower, surface-based travel options. Similarly, platforms like Lokal in the United States connect travelers with vetted community-based experiences around the world, ensuring that tourism dollars stay within local economies7.
Municipal governments can support such innovation by creating incubator programs specifically for sustainable travel services. Cities might also consider offering co-working spaces or logistical support for these businesses, particularly in regions recovering from over-tourism or economic downturns. These partnerships can be mutually beneficial: startups gain access to markets and municipal resources, while cities benefit from fresh ideas and scalable solutions that align with their sustainability goals8.
Governments Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism
Several national and local governments are setting strong examples in sustainable tourism policy and implementation. Bhutan, for instance, has long embraced a high-value, low-impact tourism model that limits visitor numbers while maximizing cultural and environmental preservation. Municipal governments can adapt similar principles by controlling overcrowding through timed entry systems, visitor caps in sensitive areas, and diversified tourism offerings that distribute visitor flows across a wider geographic area9.
In the European Union, cities participating in the European Capital of Smart Tourism initiative are recognized for integrating sustainability, accessibility, and cultural heritage into comprehensive tourism strategies. Helsinki and Lyon, both past winners, have implemented intelligent waste management systems, promoted digital visitor tools, and prioritized local sourcing in hospitality services. These examples show that with strong leadership and data-driven planning, municipalities can play a central role in transitioning tourism toward a more sustainable future10.
How Municipal Practitioners Can Take Action in 2026
For municipal practitioners, 2026 presents a strategic opportunity to embed sustainability into tourism recovery and development plans. This can begin with conducting baseline assessments of tourism’s environmental and social impacts, using tools such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's Destination Criteria. These assessments provide a framework for setting measurable goals and tracking progress over time. Municipalities can also align tourism strategies with broader climate action and economic development plans to ensure policy coherence and resource efficiency11.
Another actionable step is to convene sustainability task forces that include representatives from tourism businesses, non-profits, educational institutions, and resident groups. These bodies can help identify local strengths, challenges, and opportunities, ensuring that tourism development reflects community values. Engaging in regional or international networks, such as the Sustainable Tourism Global Center or the UNWTO’s One Planet Network, can also connect municipal leaders with technical guidance, funding sources, and peer support12.
Making Sustainable Tourism the Standard, Not the Exception
The shift toward sustainable tourism is not a temporary trend, but a structural change driven by environmental realities, consumer preferences, and policy imperatives. Municipal governments that recognize this shift and act decisively in 2026 will position their destinations for long-term competitiveness and resilience. This requires integrating sustainability into all aspects of tourism planning, from land use and transportation to marketing and workforce development.
Practitioners should prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and adaptability in their strategies. By fostering collaboration across sectors, investing in local capacity, and leveraging data to inform decisions, municipalities can help redefine what successful tourism looks like. The goal is not just to attract visitors, but to ensure that tourism contributes positively to the environment, the economy, and the quality of life for residents. In doing so, 2026 can truly become a pivotal year for making sustainable tourism the foundation for travel's future.
Bibliography
European Commission. “Green Capital of Europe: Ljubljana 2016.” Accessed April 2024. https://ec.europa.eu/environment/europeangreencapital/winning-cities/2016-ljubljana/.
Global Sustainable Tourism Council. “GSTC Destination Criteria.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-criteria/gstc-destination-criteria/.
Honey, Martha. *Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise?* 2nd ed. Washington, DC: Island Press, 2008.
United Nations Development Programme. “Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism in Costa Rica.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.undp.org/costa-rica/projects/inclusive-tourism.
City of Copenhagen. “Cycling in Copenhagen – The Bicycle Account.” Accessed April 2024. https://urbandevelopmentcph.kk.dk/english/cycling-copenhagen.
OECD. *Tourism Trends and Policies 2022.* Paris: OECD Publishing, 2022.
Byway. “How It Works.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.byway.travel/how-it-works.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). *Sustainable Tourism Innovation.* 2023. https://www.unwto.org/sustainable-development/innovation.
Tourism Council of Bhutan. “High Value, Low Volume Tourism.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.bhutan.travel/page/high-value-low-volume-tourism.
European Commission. “European Capital of Smart Tourism.” Accessed April 2024. https://smarttourismcapital.eu/.
Global Sustainable Tourism Council. “Measuring Sustainability in Tourism Destinations.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.gstcouncil.org/sustainable-tourism-measurement/.
United Nations World Tourism Organization. “One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme.” Accessed April 2024. https://www.unwto.org/one-planet-sustainable-tourism-programme.
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ABOUT THE ROLE The County of San Diego is seeking exceptionally qualified individuals for the Deputy Chief Financial Officer position within Executive Management. The organization is committed to a vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all, guided by core values of integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Specific responsibilities are detailed in the official Deputy Chief Financial Officer job description and detailed job brochure available through the employer's recruitment portal. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific minimum qualifications are outlined in the official job description brochure. - Candidates must clearly document their experience meeting these minimum requirements within their application materials. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information (name, phone number, address, gender, age, and race) is removed from all new recruitments to ensure a fair, equitable, and unbiased selection process. - Unclassified Service: Persons serving in this position do not accrue tenure and serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. - Disaster Service Worker: Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers and may be assigned disaster service activities by their employer or by law. - Accommodation: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions on a case-by-case basis. SELECTION PROCESS - All applications are subject to Blind Applicant Screening. - Candidates will be evaluated based on their submitted application materials. - The most highly qualified candidates, based on evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application as soon as possible prior to the closing date. - Explicitly detail all experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: County of San Diego - Location: County of San Diego, CA - Job Type: Regular - Full time - Job Number: 26032707U - Department: Finance & General Gov't Group - Opening Date: 07/28/2026 - Closing Date: 8/27/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
ABOUT THE ROLE The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Bureau of Wastewater Treatment (BWT) is seeking a Section Chief of Construction Management North. This leadership role involves planning, directing, and evaluating the performance of staff engineers, project managers, and construction project managers. The Section Chief will oversee the supervision of construction work for the repair, modification, and improvement of structural, mechanical, and electrical components at BWT facilities, including 14 wastewater resource recovery facilities and various collection facilities. The role manages an annual consultant contract budget of $15 million and an annual capital construction budget of approximately $100 million. The selected candidate may also assume the duties of the Division Chief in their absence. IMPORTANT ELIGIBILITY NOTE: Only candidates currently serving as a permanent or probable permanent (probationary) Administrative Construction Project Manager will be considered. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Plan and direct staff workload to ensure 95% of projects are completed by the original planned completion date. - Allocate resources for highly complex and critical construction work. - Review construction specifications, drawings, and schedules. - Support predesigned construction projects from the Bureau Engineering Program using DEP staff and consultants. - Direct staff to notify concerned parties on the status of high-priority projects. - Oversee emergency work to ensure 100% execution in an expedited manner; assign tasks and maintain communication until completion. - Manage the section's overtime budget, ensuring spending stays within guidelines and caps are not exceeded. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must have at least six years of full-time satisfactory experience in construction management work on capital projects (each valued at least $300,000), with at least 18 months in a managerial or consultative capacity. Additionally, candidates must have a combination of education and experience totaling ten years, calculated as follows: 1. Experience: Full-time satisfactory experience in construction inspection on capital projects (valued at least $300,000). One year of credit per year of experience, up to a maximum of four years. 2. Trade Experience: Full-time satisfactory experience as a journeyperson in skilled building construction trades. One year of credit per year of experience, up to a maximum of four years. 3. Education: A bachelor’s degree in architecture, landscape architecture, air pollution control, chemical, civil (including structural/bridge), electrical, mechanical, or sanitary engineering. Credit is 30 semester credits for one year of experience, up to a maximum of four years. 4. License Substitution: A New York State license as a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect (or reciprocal state license) may substitute for the four years of education/experience described above. However, the minimum six years of construction management experience (including 18 months managerial) is still required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Current Status: Must currently be a permanent or probable permanent (probationary) Administrative Construction Project Manager. - Driver’s License: Possession of a valid New York State Motor Vehicle Driver License is required and must be maintained during employment. - Preferred Skills: - Familiarity with sewage treatment and collection facilities, equipment, and processes. - Experience in supervising, delegating, training, responding to emergencies, writing specifications, and implementing policies. - Ability to represent the work unit, coordinate with other organizations, plan goals, identify resources, SELECTION PROCESS Exam May Be Required. Given the internal eligibility restriction, the process likely involves a review of qualifications and interviews for current permanent/probationary Administrative Construction Project Managers. HOW TO APPLY Click "Apply" on the job posting. Ensure your application clearly reflects your current permanent or probationary status as an Administrative Construction Project Manager. If applying via the 55-a Program, indicate this on your resume and cover letter. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: NYC-All Boros - Department: Construction Management (Bureau of Wastewater Treatment) - Employment Type: Full-Time - Residency Requirement: New York City residency is NOT required for this position. - Benefits: Eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs (e.g., Public Service Loan Forgiveness). - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of New York is committed to diversity and providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment.
ABOUT THE ROLE This is a critical leadership role within the Austin Energy Operations organization, managing a team of Key Account managers responsible for the utility's largest and most significant customers. Reporting under the Vice President of Customer Energy Solutions, this position oversees customer escalations, directs the implementation of Demand-Side Management (DSM) energy efficiency projects, and promotes Green Building and sustainability programs. The role requires extensive knowledge of utility services, strong managerial skills, and the ability to interface with executive leadership and external partners. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead a team of professionals managing relationships with key customers - Ensure training and development of the team on Austin Energy tools and systems - Execute and manage contracts as appropriate - Serve on the Incident Command team and maintain relationships with surrounding utilities for troubleshooting - Plan, direct, and coordinate technical program services to improve energy efficiency in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings - Direct and manage energy audits, engineering feasibility studies, and cost-effectiveness comparisons - Manage annual O&M, CIP, and incentive budgets, including preparing short and long-term spending plans - Prepare and present annual results-of-operations reports for management and public advisory committees - Manage promotional and outreach efforts to establish partnerships with contractors, vendors, and trade allies - Formulate plan objectives to achieve desirable electric load shape changes through energy efficiency programs - Develop and implement plans to promote Green Building and Sustainability projects MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Business Administration, Public Administration, Engineering, or a related field - Seven (7) years of related experience, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial capacity - Education may substitute for experience up to two (2) years SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to work various shifts, on-call, and backup hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, inclement weather, and emergency closures - Designated as an Essential Employee position; may be required to modify schedules or relocate to a City-designated work site during emergencies - Requires a criminal background investigation and NERC Personal Risk Assessment - Top candidates must provide proof of education from an accredited institution - Military veterans selected as top candidates must provide a copy of their DD-214 prior to confirming a start date SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be evaluated based on the completeness and detail of the employment record - Resumes or statements such as "see resume" will not be accepted; all duties and responsibilities must be detailed in the application - Top candidates will undergo education verification, a criminal background investigation, and a NERC Personal Risk Assessment - The City of Austin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete City of Austin employment application through the official external career site (current City of Austin employees must apply through the internal Workday Jobs Hub) - Detail all current and previous employment, including job titles, employment dates, job duties, functions, and responsibilities - Use "N/A" for fields that are not applicable; do not write "see resume" - Ensure all application steps and attachments are fully completed before the posting closes at 11:59 PM the day before the listed End Date EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Austin Energy Headquarters, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 - Time Type: Full time (40 Hour Work Week, Hybrid Available) - Days and Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Job Requisition ID: JR104604 - Agency: Austin Energy, City of Austin - FLSA Status: Exempt (Salaried, not eligible for overtime compensation) - Application End Date: August 11, 2026 (closes at 11:59 PM on August 10, 2026)
ABOUT THE ROLE Portland Parks & Recreation's Urban Forestry program is seeking an experienced urban forestry leader to serve as the City Property Tree Care Coordinator. This leadership position provides strategic and operational oversight for managing City-owned trees across Portland's parks and properties. Reporting to the Tree Maintenance Operations Manager, the Coordinator supervises two Coordinator IIs and leads the program for inspecting, assessing, and managing City-owned trees. The role ensures tree care decisions align with arboricultural best practices, public safety, and long-term urban forest management goals. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise, coach, and develop two Coordinator IIs, including recruitment, onboarding, and performance management - Oversee, coordinate, and perform inspections and technical assessments of City-owned trees to evaluate condition and risk - Establish priorities for proactive and reactive tree care balancing public safety, tree health, and operational needs - Lead planning and coordination of tree maintenance, removals, and related work for parks and capital projects - Coordinate with planners, project managers, contractors, and community stakeholders to ensure efficient implementation - Develop, implement, and improve policies, protocols, workflows, and standard operating procedures - Oversee tree asset data management, quality assurance, reporting, and performance monitoring - Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise in arboriculture and urban forest management MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Experience supervising, coaching, and developing professional staff in a collaborative, inclusive environment - Experience planning, coordinating, and implementing complex urban forestry, arboricultural, or natural resource programs - Experience overseeing and performing tree inspections and tree risk assessments using accepted arboricultural principles - Experience developing and implementing operational policies, procedures, or business processes - Experience using technology, asset management systems, data tracking, and reporting for operational planning - Experience effectively working with diverse communities and stakeholders in public-facing environments SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain the following certifications within nine months of hire: ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), Emergency Hazard Assessment Program (EHAP) certification, and Oregon Pesticide Applicator License - Valid driver's license required - Preferred: Bachelor's degree in urban forestry, arboriculture, natural resources, or a related field - Preferred: Four years of progressively responsible experience coordinating complex programs and leading staff - Position may be eligible for Language Pay Differential SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application Review: Week of August 10, 2026 2. Notice/Feedback: Week of August 24, 2026 (14 days to request review of evaluation results) 3. Selection Process: Early September (interviews and reference checks) 4. Conditional Job Offer: Late September (may include background or driving record check) HOW TO APPLY - Submit a resume and responses to supplemental questions via the City of Portland's online portal - Optional: Submit Veterans' Preference documents (DD214-Member 4 and/or VA Benefit Letter) - Do not include age, date of birth, or school attendance/graduation dates unless specifically requested by law or job requirements EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Number: 2026-00664 - Bureau: Portland Parks & Recreation - Location: East Delta Park, 10910 N. Denver Ave., Portland, OR 97217 (frequent field work) - Job Type: Limited Duration, Full-Time - Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm (some evening and weekend work may be required) - Union Representation: Non-represented - Opening Date: 07/27/2026 - Closing Date: 8/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
ABOUT THE ROLE The Baltimore Convention Center (BCC) is seeking an Event Coordinator to provide event management services for internal and smaller meetings, as well as administrative assistance to the Sales and Services department. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Convention Services, this role involves logistical planning for event execution, client communication, and supporting sales and convention services managers. This is a non-civil service position offering the opportunity to work in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere while serving the citizens of Baltimore. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Event Management - Provide logistical planning and event coverage for internal events, small one-day events, multi-day events, and events occurring in conjunction with larger conventions - Provide back-up event coverage and assistance to Convention Services Managers (CSMs) as assigned - Assist with conducting facility tours for groups and interested parties - Implement event-related planning, scheduling, and sending client reminder notices - Assist with pre- and post-event walkthroughs - Communicate with clients on behalf of Convention Services Managers - Complete and disseminate information to proper internal and external departments Administrative Support - Coordinate Fire Marshall sign-off on floor plans - Assist with coordinating meeting room arrangements for internal meetings - Assist with creating amenity packages for clients and tracking related inventory - Research events for Sales Managers and Convention Services Managers as needed - Assist with developing diagrams for Sales and Convention Services Managers - Create, prepare, and distribute weekly and monthly reports - Compile event coverage schedules and times for service partners, managers, supervisors, and technicians - Create and prepare materials and presentations for site tours and pre-convention meetings - Perform other administrative functions for the department as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - A bachelor’s degree in business management, facility management, hospitality, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Experience: - One year of experience in event management, business management, facility management, hospitality, or a related field. Equivalency: - Commensurate experience in areas such as coordinating meetings or conferences, supporting large-scale events, working in venue or facility operations, or providing customer service in a hospitality environment may substitute for the formal education requirements. PREFERRED SKILLS - Experience in event management within the hospitality industry - Knowledge of standard business operating systems and software (Windows) - Knowledge of web-based applications (specifically Momentus and Event Draw) - Strong oral and written communication skills - Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers and clients - Ability to work flexible schedules and shift arrangements as determined by events - Experience with Adobe Creative Suite is a plus SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Non-Civil Service Position - Background Check: Eligible candidates under final consideration must complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening. - Probation: All selected persons must complete a 6-month mandatory probation. - Schedule: Must be able to work flexible schedules and shifts based on event needs. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on minimum qualifications. - Standard City of Baltimore hiring procedures apply. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Baltimore careers portal. - Job Requisition ID: R0018397 - Application Deadline: October 13, 2026 - Questions: Contact the Department of Human Resources Office of Recruitment at (410) 396-3860 or via email. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Baltimore Convention Center (Sales and Services) - Location: Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MD - Type: Full-Time - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, FSA plans, wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.
ABOUT THE ROLE The New York City Department of Sanitation, Resource Recovery Division (RRD) within the Bureau of Solid Waste Management, is seeking an experienced policy researcher to serve as an Innovation Program Lead. This role focuses on waste reduction, diversion programs, and sustainability goals, specifically supporting the implementation of the City’s 2026 Solid Waste Management Plan. The successful candidate will apply applied research, data analysis, and technology understanding to innovate towards a circular economy. Responsibilities include researching global waste management policies, managing waste composition studies, analyzing operational performance, and preparing comprehensive reports and presentations for program improvement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Research waste management policies and programs across the US and internationally to identify new innovations - Prepare documentation, statistics, and analyses for reporting and program improvements - Manage the execution of waste composition research studies, including field operations potentially in outdoor environments - Monitor and provide frequent updates and analyses of local, state, and federal circular economy and resource recovery policies - Prepare comprehensive presentations on the status of Bureau programs (including charts, graphs, and tables) and the results of research studies - Participate in the implementation and tracking of the city’s Solid Waste Management Plan - Support other Bureau functions as needed, which may require occasional evening or weekend work MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must meet the requirements for Assignment Level I or higher: - Assignment Level I: A master's degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological, or environmental science, or in public health. - Assignment Level II and above: Candidates must have at least a master's degree in an appropriate field of specialization and at least two years of experience. Specific pathways include: - A doctorate degree in an appropriate field of physical, biological, environmental, or social science and one year of full-time experience in a responsible supervisory, administrative, or research capacity; or - A master's degree in an appropriate field and three years of responsible full-time research experience in the appropriate field of specialization; or - Education and/or experience equivalent to the above. Two years as a City Research Scientist Level I can be substituted for the required experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - No exam is required for this position - Appointments are subject to a minimum probationary period of one year - Possession of a New York State Motor Vehicle Driver’s License is preferred - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment, though exceptions may apply for employees with two continuous years of service who reside in specific surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange) - Preferred skills include strong communication, administrative, organizational, and data management skills, as well as proficiency in MS Word and Excel SELECTION PROCESS - No exam is required - Selection is based on qualifications and fit for the role HOW TO APPLY - Submit application through the designated channel for the Department of Sanitation Innovation Program Lead position (Reference ID: 21744) EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Full-Time position - Department: B W D Headquarters (Department of Sanitation) - Location: NYC-All Boros - Posted Date: 06/30/2026 - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment - Employees may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs (Public Service Loan Forgiveness) and state repayment assistance programs
ABOUT THE ROLE The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction (BEDC), is seeking two Assistant Civil Engineers to serve as Assistant Project Managers for the Wastewater Capital Program (WWCP) in Queens. This role supports major capital projects valued at billions of dollars, focusing on upgrades for sustainability, resiliency, and state of good repair at wastewater resource recovery facilities, combined sewer overflow facilities, and pumping stations. The selected candidates will be integral team members responsible for achieving project goals, managing schedules and budgets, ensuring environmental health and safety compliance, and coordinating with various stakeholders and city agencies. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Support achievement of project goals and milestones, ensuring program schedules, reports, and work products conform to scope - Support preparation, negotiation, and processing of modifications to consultant contract scope, cost, and schedule - Serve as design and construction support staff, incorporating Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) throughout the project lifecycle - Develop focus on client service with operating bureaus and implement project delivery procedures - Coordinate with BEDC support groups such as Project Controls (Schedule & Cost) and Permit Resource group - Develop seamless communication and coordination with agency bureaus, other city agencies, and key stakeholders - Resolve issues and perform risk mitigation to keep projects moving - Manage quality of project delivery and monitor key performance indicators regarding budget, schedule, and contract metrics - Develop and track contract documents - Manage development of design documents - Conduct field investigations and develop solutions to issues - Review and maintain scope, schedule, and cost development and management - Handle contract administration and procurement - Communicate effectively with project stakeholders - Adhere to Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) regulations - Perform fieldwork involving standing and walking on uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and stairs in all weather conditions - Operate a motor vehicle for site visits, equipment testing, inspections, and meetings MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Option 1: - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in civil engineering - One year of full-time satisfactory experience in civil engineering work Option 2: - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college - A Master's degree from an accredited college in civil engineering Preferred Skills: - Robust knowledge of wastewater treatment systems and equipment - Knowledge and understanding of codes, standards, and design guidelines applicable to wastewater treatment facilities - Ability to read and understand engineering reports, specifications, and drawings - Excellent communication and writing skills - Critical thinking skills and effective independent data analysis - Flexibility in assignment of work responsibilities SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Exam May Be Required: Candidates may need to take and pass a civil service examination for permanent employment. - Fieldwork Requirements: Must be able to perform fieldwork on uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and stairs in all weather conditions. - Driving Requirement: Must be able to operate a motor vehicle for site visits, inspections, and meetings. - Extended Hours: May be required to work extended days from time to time. - New York City Residency is not required for this position. - This position is open to qualified persons with a disability eligible for the 55-a Program (indicate interest at the top of resume and cover letter). SELECTION PROCESS - Exam May Be Required - All appointments are subject to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval. HOW TO APPLY To apply, click "Apply Now" on the official job posting portal. Interested candidates should indicate their source of referral in the NYCAPS on-line application section. For the 55-a Program, indicate interest at the top of the resume and cover letter. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) - Department: Project Management and Construction / Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction - Location: Queens, NY - Job Type: Full-Time - Benefits Include: - Eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs - Equal Opportunity Employer: Committed to diversity and providing reasonable accommodations
ABOUT THE ROLE The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction (BEDC) is seeking two internal candidates to serve as Assistant Project Managers for the Wastewater Capital Program (WWCP) in Queens, NY. This role supports major capital projects valued at billions of dollars, including upgrades for sustainability, resiliency, and state of good repair at wastewater resource recovery facilities (WRRF), combined sewer overflow (CSO) facilities, and pumping stations. Key projects include gravity belt thickener installation at the Owls Head WRRF and construction of CSO facilities under the Gowanus Canal Superfund program. The selected candidates will work under supervision as integral team members responsible for achieving project goals, managing schedules, budgets, and contracts, and ensuring environmental health and safety compliance. IMPORTANT ELIGIBILITY NOTE: This position is ONLY open to permanent Civil Service Assistant Chemical Engineers. Applicants without this specific permanent civil service status will not be considered. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Support the project team in preparation, negotiation, and processing of modifications to consultant contract scope, cost, and schedule. - Serve as design and construction support staff, ensuring Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is incorporated throughout the project lifecycle. - Develop seamless communication and coordination with agency bureaus, other city agencies, and key stakeholders. - Resolve issues and mitigate risks to keep projects moving. - Manage the quality of project delivery and continuously monitor key performance indicators regarding budget, schedule, and contract metrics. - Develop and track contract documents. - Manage the development of design documents. - Conduct field investigations and develop solutions to issues. - Review and maintain scope, schedule, and cost development and management. - Handle contract administration and procurement tasks. - Communicate effectively with project stakeholders. - Adhere to Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) regulations. - Perform fieldwork involving standing and walking on uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and stairs in all weather conditions. - Operate a motor vehicle for site visits, equipment testing, inspections, and meetings. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must meet one of the following education and experience combinations: 1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in chemical engineering AND one year of full-time satisfactory experience in chemical engineering work; OR 2. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in chemical engineering technology AND three years of full-time satisfactory experience in chemical engineering work; OR 3. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college AND a master’s degree from an accredited college in chemical engineering. CRITICAL REQUIREMENT: Applicants must currently hold permanent Civil Service status as an Assistant Chemical Engineer. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Internal Eligibility: Only permanent Civil Service Assistant Chemical Engineers are eligible to apply. - Driver’s License: Must be able to operate a motor vehicle for site visits and meetings. - Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform fieldwork on uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and stairs in all weather conditions. - Work Schedule: May be required to work extended days from time to time. - Preferred Skills: - Robust knowledge of wastewater treatment systems and equipment. - Knowledge of codes, standards, and design guidelines applicable to wastewater treatment facilities. SELECTION PROCESS Exam May Be Required. However, since this is an internal promotion/jurisdictional vacancy for permanent civil servants, the process likely involves a review of qualifications and interviews. Only candidates under consideration will be contacted. All appointments are subject to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval. HOW TO APPLY Click "Apply Now" on the job posting. Ensure your application clearly states your permanent Civil Service status as an Assistant Chemical Engineer. If applying via the 55-a Program, indicate this on your resume and cover letter. Please indicate your source of referral in the NYCAPS online application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Queens, NY - Department: Project Management and Construction (Bureau of Engineering Design & Construction) - Employment Type: Full-Time - Residency Requirement: New York City residency is NOT required for this position. - Benefits: Eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs (e.g., Public Service Loan Forgiveness). - Equal Opportunity Employer: DEP is committed to diversity and providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment.





