• Location: Sydney (Surry Hills); Flexible work arrangements – opportunity for some remote working
• Employment Type: Part-time (3 days per week)

• Salary: $41,250 annual salary (SCHADS L2, PP2) plus $4,950 super (12% from July 2025), and annual phone/internet allowance
• Start Date: immediate start

• Contract Duration: May 2025 - April 2027

ABOUT US

Total Environment Centre’s Australian Microplastic Assessment Project (AUSMAP) is the leading initiative on microplastic pollution within Australia, with one of the largest datasets of microplastic loads nationally. Since 2018 AUSMAP has been using scientific data to advocate for solutions to the microplastic problem. Synthetic turf and rubber crumb is an emerging issue, with AUSMAP taking the lead in understanding and quantifying the microplastic loss associated with sporting fields and playgrounds. For more information on AUSMAP’s role in synthetic turf research within Australia see here.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Project Officer to support research and advocacy related to synthetic turf and microplastic management. This role involves identifying sources of microplastic release, evaluating mitigation strategies, supporting data collection, engaging with stakeholders, and developing best practice recommendations for councils and policymakers. This is a joint project between AUSMAP, Ku-ring-gai Council and Sydney Coastal Councils Group, funded by the NSW EPA.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to environmental research and policy development, support the implementation of improved management practices, and help advance practical solutions for reducing microplastic loss from artificial play surfaces.

You will be reporting to a senior AUSMAP manager, and working with our AUSMAP team of paid and voluntary staff.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research & Data Collection:

• Support field studies and site assessments to measure microplastic waste generated from synthetic turf, including rubber crumb and synthetic grass blade loss in waterways and surrounding environments.
• Travel and conduct independent on-site site assessments.
• Assist in the interpretation and reporting of findings.
• Conduct stakeholder engagement with Sydney Coastal Councils Group (SCCG) councils to gain approval for participation in the project and on-ground action, where feasible and agreed.

Policy & Best practice Development:

• Review current regulations, environmental policies and industry standards within Australia and internationally, related to best practice synthetic turf management and application of alternatives.
• Contribute to the development of best practice guidelines for councils and decision makers to mitigate any environmental impacts.

Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy:

• Collaborate with SCCG councils, environmental agencies, industry groups and community organisations to promote awareness of synthetic turf pollution.
• Assist in advocacy efforts to improve regulations and policies on microplastic pollution from synthetic turf.

Communication & Education:

• Support the development of educational materials, reports and presentations to raise public awareness of synthetic turf related pollution.
• Help organise and participate in workshops, webinars and community events on microplastic waste management in relation to the project.

ABOUT YOU – SELECTION CRITERIA

• Passion for environmental sustainability and pollution reduction.
• Background in environmental science, project management, policy, research or a related field.
• Experience with site data collection, analysis and reporting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder engagement and advocacy.
• Ability to develop and implement work plans and work collaboratively within a small team.
• Experience with small event management.
• Knowledge of microplastics, synthetic turf and environmental regulations (preferred but not essential).
• Proven computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Class C driver's licence and own vehicle (allowance for travel expenses provided).

WHY JOIN US?

• Work on a critical environmental issue with real-world impact.
• Collaborate with leading experts, councils, and advocacy groups.
• Contribute to policy change and best practice solutions.
• Enjoy a flexible, part-time schedule with a dynamic and supportive team.

For more information and a copy of the Position Description, contact [email protected] using the subject line: Project Officer - Synthetic Turf & Microplastics enquiry via EthicalJobs.