Sustainability Program Planner

Duke Health is seeking a visionary Sustainability Program Planner to lead transformative initiatives that reduce environmental impact, boost resource efficiency, and embed sustainability into every corner of our healthcare operations.

Be You.

In this strategic role, you’ll collaborate across departments, champion Duke’s values, and help shape the future of sustainable healthcare—while enhancing our reputation as a national leader in environmental stewardship.

This role is responsible for implementing and managing initiatives that reduce environmental impact, improve resource efficiency, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Collaborating across departments, the Sustainability Program Planner integrates sustainable practices into daily operations, aligning with Duke Health's strategic goals while enhancing its reputation as a leader in healthcare sustainability.

This position requires a deep commitment to Duke's values and objectives, with the expectation of fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the organization.

The Sustainability Program Planner will report to the Director of Sustainability and Climate Health.

Work Arrangement – On-site

Anticipated Pay Range -Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $68,970.00 to USD $127,008.00. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family- friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members.

Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

DEPARTMENTAL PREFERENCES

Education - Master’s degree in environmental sciences, sustainability, or related field.

Experience - Eight (8) years of experience.

Licenses & Certifications - LEED Accredited Professional.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education - Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, sustainability, or related field.

Work Experience - Five (5) years of experience in healthcare sustainability.

Be Bold.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities  

• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational and leadership skills.
• Ability to understand and implement sound sustainable business practices at the organizational level.
• Effective skills in organization, planning, prioritization, and time management.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with ease, efficiency, and attention to detail.
• Self-directed with the ability to work independently.
• Collaborative with the ability to work as a team member and create relationships with stakeholders and partners.
• Proficient knowledge of general computer applications and the ability to effectively utilize software for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• Capable of interacting and collaborating with all levels of staff in a professional manner.
• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written skills.
• Consultative approach to working with users in assessing needs and requirements.
• Change management and process improvement experience.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and solution-oriented approach.
• Ability to live the organizational values and innovate.
• Qualitative and quantitative analytical skills.

Major Responsibilities

Program Development and Implementation: 30%

• Under the direction of the Director of Sustainability and Climate Health, execute comprehensive sustainability strategies addressing energy use, resource conservation, waste reduction, recycling, pollution prevention, sustainable procurement, transportation, and sustainable building practices.
• Analyze and assess current operating procedures, materials, and methods; anticipate and implement changes based on sustainability goals, including life cycle assessments and cost-benefit analyses.
• Establish best practices, set SMART goals, and evaluate the impact of sustainability initiatives.
• Integrate sustainability into operational and strategic planning across departments.

Policy Development & Compliance: 15%

• Support in the development and maintenance of policies related to environmental management, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable travel to ensure regulatory compliance and alignment with industry best practices.
• Conduct sustainability-related risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations and standards.
• Support in the establishment of policies that align with sustainability goals while supporting regulatory requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships: 20%

• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., engineering and operations, environmental health and safety, marketing, and clinical teams) and Duke University Office of Climate and Sustainability to integrate sustainability across the health system.
• Develop partnerships with vendors to implement sustainable supply chain strategies, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the environmental footprint of procurement.
• Together with the Director of Sustainability and Climate Health, build effective relationships with external community organizations, industry groups, and government entities to support and enhance sustainability efforts.

Data Management & Reporting: 20%

• Capture and analyze data to measure performance, develop and distribute regular reports, updates, and recommendations on sustainability progress, including greenhouse gas inventory reporting.
• Communicate sustainability metrics and outcomes to key stakeholders, including the Director of Sustainability, Sustainability Program Working Group, and Sustainability Affinity Group.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to develop website content, educational materials, and sustainability reports.

Education & Engagement Initiatives: 15%

• Lead and promote sustainability engagement activities through tools, education, and training to increase awareness among staff members, patients, and the community and promote a culture of sustainability.
• Coordinate sustainability-focused engagement activities, including Earth Week events and educational workshops.
• Work with human resources and educational teams to integrate sustainability training into new employee orientation and ongoing professional development.

Physical Requirements

Indicate the appropriate physical requirements of this job in the course of a shift.

Note: Reasonable accommodation may be made available for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

ALL DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS MUST BE PERFORMED CONSISTENT WITH THE DUHS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.

Choose Duke.

If you're ready to turn purpose into action and make a lasting difference, we want to hear from you!