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If you’ve Googled “Sustainability Manager job description”, you’ve probably seen dozens of results already. The problem? Most of them read like a generic HR checklist—bullet points, buzzwords, and boilerplate. They don’t actually help you attract great candidates who are passionate about sustainability.
And here’s the truth: top sustainability professionals aren’t inspired by vague phrases like “oversee sustainability initiatives.” They want to know what impact they’ll make, who they’ll work with, and how your company treats people and the planet.
That’s why if your job post is just a formality, you’ll miss out on the talent you actually want—the kind of people who could drive your sustainability strategy forward.
💡 Before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It explains why most generic posts fail to convert quality applicants—and how a human, transparent approach can help you stand out.
In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to write a Sustainability Manager job description that’s not only clear and practical—but also inspiring, authentic, and effective at attracting mission-driven talent.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
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What the Sustainability Manager Role Actually Is
A Sustainability Manager is more than just someone who “oversees green initiatives.” At its core, this role is about turning values into measurable impact.
In plain English: a Sustainability Manager develops and implements strategies that help a company reduce its environmental footprint, meet regulatory standards, and build a culture of responsible practices. They bridge the gap between business goals and environmental stewardship—making sure sustainability isn’t just a PR statement, but part of daily operations.
Here’s what that often looks like in practice:
- Designing and monitoring initiatives to reduce energy use, waste, and emissions.
- Partnering with different departments (operations, supply chain, HR, marketing) to embed sustainability into decision-making.
- Measuring results and reporting progress to leadership, investors, and sometimes the public.
- Staying on top of evolving environmental regulations and industry best practices.
Because sustainability work affects brand reputation, compliance, and long-term business success, the role requires a mix of strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, and strong communication skills.
In other words, a great Sustainability Manager is part strategist, part analyst, part storyteller—helping both employees and external stakeholders understand why sustainability matters and how it’s being achieved.
Two Great Sustainability Manager Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Job Description Example 1 — Experienced Sustainability Manager
🌍 Job Title: Sustainability Manager — GreenPath Industries (Chicago, IL)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days onsite)
💲 Salary Range: $85,000 – $105,000 + bonus
🗓️ Application Window: Open until filled
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager
(Insert Loom/YouTube link: 60–90 seconds on why the role matters, key initiatives in flight, and how success is measured.)
Who We Are
GreenPath Industries is a mid-market packaging manufacturer based in Chicago serving food, beverage, and personal care brands across North America. Over the last 15 years, we’ve modernized our operations with energy-efficient equipment, piloted closed-loop recycling with suppliers, and redesigned product lines to reduce material use without compromising performance. We’re now investing in a company-wide sustainability roadmap to deepen impact across sourcing, operations, and product design.
About the Role
You’ll lead our sustainability strategy end-to-end—setting targets, driving cross-functional initiatives, and turning data into clear, credible reporting for leadership and customers.
What You’ll Do
- Own our sustainability roadmap: targets, milestones, budgets, and quarterly reviews
- Lead GHG accounting (Scopes 1–3) and drive emissions reduction projects with Ops & Supply Chain
- Expand waste, water, and energy efficiency programs across two manufacturing sites
- Partner with Product to advance circularity (design for recyclability, recycled content)
- Produce ESG reporting (e.g., GRI/ISSB-aligned), customer questionnaires, and CDP responses
- Build employee engagement: lunch-and-learns, green teams, volunteer days
- Track evolving regulations and standards; brief executives with actionable guidance
What We’re Looking For
- 3–5+ years in sustainability/ESG, manufacturing, supply chain, or corporate responsibility
- Working knowledge of GHG Protocol, life cycle thinking, and materiality assessments
- Experience with data collection & dashboards; comfort translating analysis into decisions
- Clear communicator who can influence without authority across Ops, Procurement, and Product
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + company HSA contributions
- 401(k) with company match
- 18 days PTO + 10 paid holidays + paid volunteer day
- Commuter benefits + monthly hybrid stipend
- $2,000 annual learning budget (certifications, conferences)
- 12 weeks paid parental leave
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Executive buy-in & budget: senior leadership is committed to measurable goals
- Visible impact: your work influences product design, supplier standards, and site operations
- Build systems that last: stand up processes, tooling, and reporting from the ground up
- Mission with momentum: help a real-economy manufacturer decarbonize at scale
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen for a fair, skills-first process. Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen Link]. You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation so we can understand your strengths beyond a resume.
✅ Job Description Example 2 — for Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Candidate
🌍 Job Title: Junior Sustainability Associate — EcoVision Partners (Remote – US)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Remote-Friendly (Core hours: ET/CT)
💲 Salary Range: $50,000 – $65,000 + benefits
🗓️ Application Window: Closes in 21 days
🎥 A message from our CEO
(Insert Loom/YouTube link: 45–60 seconds on our mission, the kind of learner we’re looking for, and how we support growth.)
Who We Are
EcoVision Partners is a boutique sustainability consultancy that helps mid-size retailers, logistics firms, and SaaS companies turn climate goals into clear roadmaps. We run lean, collaborate closely with clients, and invest heavily in training. Our team blends analytical rigor with practical change management—so strategies actually stick.
About the Role
You’ll support client projects while learning the craft: collecting data, drafting baselines, researching best practices, and helping prepare client-ready deliverables. This role is designed as a runway to Sustainability Manager within 18–24 months.
What You’ll Do
- Gather and QA data for carbon, waste, and energy baselines; maintain project trackers
- Research emerging policies, incentives, and sector best practices
- Draft slides, memos, and dashboards for client updates and workshops
- Coordinate with client stakeholders and vendors; capture action items and follow-ups
- Support internal “knowledge kits” (templates, SOPs, case libraries)
What We’re Looking For
- Curiosity about climate, circularity, or corporate responsibility (degree helpful but not required)
- Strong writing & organization; comfort working in spreadsheets and slides
- Growth mindset; you ask great questions and act on feedback
- Bonus: exposure to analytics, operations, or consulting (internships count)
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + mental health stipend
- 15 days PTO + winter shutdown (last week of Dec)
- $1,500 annual learning budget + paid study time (LEED GA/ISSP/GRI prep)
- Home office stipend + monthly internet reimbursement
- Quarterly in-person team meetups
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Career runway: structured mentorship and a clear path to Sustainability Manager
- Variety of industries: learn fast by seeing how different businesses tackle sustainability
- Real responsibility early: own workstreams with support, not micromanagement
- Supportive culture: psychological safety, thoughtful feedback, and shared wins
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen Link]. We use a short, skills-based exercise so you can showcase potential—even if your resume is non-traditional.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Sustainability Manager Job Posts Work
Both Sustainability Manager examples succeed because they do more than list responsibilities—they attract the right talent by speaking directly to what candidates care about. Here’s why they stand out:
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a vague “Sustainability Manager” or “Sustainability Associate,” the job titles specify company, location, and level.
- Example 1: “Sustainability Manager — GreenPath Industries (Chicago, IL)” signals seniority, employer brand, and location in one line.
- Example 2: “Junior Sustainability Associate — EcoVision Partners (Remote – US)” makes it obvious this is an entry-level, remote-friendly role.
👉 Candidates instantly know if the role is relevant, which improves quality of applicants.
2. Personal Video Element
Both posts include a Loom/YouTube video from the hiring manager or CEO. This small addition humanizes the company, builds trust, and helps candidates feel a connection before applying. Most job posts skip this, so it’s a clear differentiator.
3. Storytelling in the Company Overview
- GreenPath Industries highlights its track record (15 years in packaging, recycling pilots, product redesign for sustainability).
- EcoVision Partners emphasizes its mission-driven consulting model (training-focused, boutique scale, collaborative approach).
👉 These are not copy-paste blurbs—they show why the company exists and why the role matters within it, which inspires top candidates.
4. Warm, Impactful Role Descriptions
Rather than “manage sustainability initiatives,” the descriptions explain what impact the person will have:
- GreenPath: “You’ll lead our sustainability strategy end-to-end—setting targets, driving initiatives, turning data into clear reporting.”
- EcoVision: “You’ll support client projects while learning the craft…this role is designed as a runway to Sustainability Manager.”
👉 This framing gives purpose and shows how the role ties into the company’s broader mission.
5. Transparent Perks & Benefits
Compensation isn’t hidden. Salary ranges, PTO, insurance, learning stipends, and parental leave are all spelled out.
👉 Transparency builds trust, weeds out mismatched expectations, and signals respect for candidates’ time.
6. Separate “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section
This section is where the pitch happens. Instead of letting the benefits speak for themselves, it calls out the deeper value:
- Executive buy-in, visible impact, and chance to build systems (GreenPath).
- Career runway, variety of industries, real responsibility, and supportive culture (EcoVision).
👉 This makes the role aspirational and speaks to motivations beyond paycheck.
7. Respectful Hiring Process
Both posts make the process clear: apply via WorkScreen, complete a short skills-based evaluation, and avoid the black hole of “only shortlisted will be contacted.”
👉 This reassures candidates they won’t be ghosted and shows the company values fairness.
8. Human Tone Throughout
The posts avoid corporate jargon. Instead of “oversee stakeholder engagement to facilitate cross-functional alignment,” it says:
- “Build employee engagement: lunch-and-learns, green teams, volunteer days.”
👉 Conversational, practical language makes the job more approachable and attractive.
✅ Summary: These job posts connect where others simply inform. By combining clarity, transparency, storytelling, and respect, they create a magnet for thoughtful, mission-driven sustainability professionals—both seasoned and emerging.
Bad Sustainability Manager Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
❌ Example of a Bad Job Post
Job Title: Sustainability Manager
Company: Global Enterprises Inc.
Location: New York, NY
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
Global Enterprises Inc. is seeking a Sustainability Manager to oversee the company’s environmental initiatives. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing policies, ensuring compliance, and reporting on sustainability goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage sustainability programs across departments.
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
- Prepare reports for senior management.
- Coordinate with internal teams.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Business, or related field.
- 5 years of experience in sustainability or a related area.
- Strong communication skills.
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@globalenterprises.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- Generic Job Title
Just “Sustainability Manager” with no context about level, scope, or industry. Candidates don’t know if it’s senior, junior, local, or global. - Cold, Uninspired Intro
The summary is vague: “oversee environmental initiatives.” It doesn’t explain why the role matters or what the company’s sustainability vision is. - No Salary or Benefits
Hiding compensation is outdated and a red flag for many top candidates. Without perks or benefits, the role feels transactional. - Responsibilities Are Too Broad
Phrases like “manage programs” and “coordinate with teams” are so generic they could apply to any job. There’s no sense of impact. - Culture and Values Are Missing
There’s nothing about company mission, culture, or how sustainability fits into its strategy. Serious candidates want to know why this work matters here. - Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is impersonal and discouraging. It tells applicants they’ll probably never hear back. - No Human Element
No video, no employee quotes, no personal touch. The whole post feels like a formality rather than an invitation.
✅ Lesson: This bad example shows exactly what turns candidates off: lack of transparency, vague wording, no culture, and a dismissive process. It checks HR boxes but fails to inspire.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Sustainability Manager Job Post Stand Out
Even if you’ve nailed the structure, you can make your job description truly magnetic with a few thoughtful extras. These are small details that top candidates notice—and they can be the difference between your post blending in or standing out.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Show candidates you respect their data. A simple line like this builds instant trust:
“We take the privacy and security of all applicants seriously. We will never request payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any stage of the hiring process.”
2. Highlight Flex Time or Leave Days
Work-life balance matters, especially for sustainability professionals who value wellbeing. Call it out directly:
“Enjoy 20 days of PTO per year, plus 2 volunteer days to support environmental or community causes you care about.”
3. Mention Training & Growth Opportunities
This role evolves quickly—regulations, ESG frameworks, and reporting standards change every year. Show you’re committed to keeping your team sharp:
“We invest in your growth with a $2,000 annual learning budget for certifications like ISSP, GRI, or LEED GA.”
4. Add a Personal Video
We said this earlier, but it’s worth repeating—attach a short Loom or YouTube video from the hiring manager, CEO, or even a future teammate. A 60-second clip about why this role matters in your company makes the job feel human and accessible.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Showcase Employee Stories
Instead of just saying “great culture,” let your employees speak:
- Link to a Glassdoor review.
- Share a quote from a current team member about what it’s like to work there.
- Include a short case study of a recent sustainability project the team delivered.
6. Be Transparent About the Hiring Process
Instead of leaving candidates guessing, outline the steps. For example:
- Apply via WorkScreen evaluation
- Initial interview with hiring manager
- Final panel discussion
- Offer
Clear timelines and touchpoints reduce candidate anxiety and improve the experience.
✅ Why These Tips Matter: Sustainability professionals tend to be mission-driven, values-focused, and selective about where they work. These extras show your company is transparent, respectful, and serious about its sustainability commitments—qualities that resonate deeply with top talent.
Should You Use AI to Write a Sustainability Manager Job Description?
Lately, it seems like every hiring team is tempted to let AI tools spit out job descriptions. Some ATS platforms even include a “one-click generate” feature. But here’s the problem: when you let AI do all the work, you usually end up with posts that are generic, uninspired, and ineffective.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- Generic Copy: AI defaults to broad, cookie-cutter language like “manage sustainability initiatives” or “ensure compliance with regulations.” These blurbs don’t excite serious candidates.
- Wrong Candidates: Boring, catch-all posts attract mass applicants—not the thoughtful, mission-driven professionals you actually want.
- Bad First Impression: A job post is often a candidate’s first interaction with your brand. If it feels lazy or robotic, they’ll assume the culture is too.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI can be powerful—but only if you guide it with the right ingredients. Think of it as a polishing tool, not a substitute for strategy.
Here’s how to do it smartly:
- Give AI Real Inputs:
- Your company’s mission and values
- Why this role exists and how it impacts the business
- Specific responsibilities, perks, and benefits
- The tone you want (conversational, inspiring, inclusive)
- Your company’s mission and values
- Use Detailed Prompts:
Example:
“Help me write a Sustainability Manager job description for GreenPath Industries. We’re a packaging manufacturer reducing emissions and waste. The role involves leading ESG reporting, managing Scope 1–3 data, and engaging employees. Our culture is collaborative and mission-driven. Salary range: $85K–$105K + benefits. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Please write in a clear, conversational tone.” - Edit & Humanize:
Once AI gives you a draft, refine it: add a video element, showcase employee stories, include salary transparency, and weave in your company’s actual impact.
💡 Pro Tip: Look at strong job posts (like the two examples earlier in this article) and use them as style references when prompting AI. This way, you get structure and clarity—without falling into the trap of robotic, lifeless content.
✅ Bottom Line: AI should never replace your input, values, and voice. Use it as a co-writer to save time, but always bring the human touch that attracts top sustainability talent.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.
Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
🌍 Job Title: Sustainability Manager — [Your Company Name] (Location / Remote)
💼 Type: Full-Time
💲 Salary Range: [Insert range]
🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager
(Insert Loom or YouTube link with a short message from the hiring manager about why this role matters.)
Who We Are
At [Your Company Name], sustainability isn’t an afterthought—it’s at the core of how we operate. From reducing emissions in our operations to building products that last longer and waste less, we’re committed to doing business the right way. We’re looking for a Sustainability Manager who shares that vision and can help us take it further.
About the Role
This isn’t a “check-the-box” compliance job. As our Sustainability Manager, you’ll drive initiatives that actually move the needle. You’ll work across teams, set measurable goals, and tell the story of our impact to employees, customers, and stakeholders.
What You’ll Do
- Lead company-wide sustainability programs (energy, waste, emissions, supply chain).
- Own ESG reporting and track progress against goals.
- Partner with product and operations to embed sustainability into daily decisions.
- Inspire and engage employees through training and culture initiatives.
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years in sustainability, ESG, or corporate responsibility.
- Knowledge of reporting frameworks (GRI, ISSB, CDP, etc.).
- Strong communication skills—you can explain data and strategy clearly.
- A mix of strategy, analysis, and storytelling skills.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary + bonus potential
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off + company holidays
- Annual learning budget for sustainability certifications
- Volunteer days to support causes you care about
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At [Your Company], sustainability is more than PR—it’s a priority. You’ll have executive support, resources, and the chance to lead projects that create real impact.
📥 How to Apply
Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert link]. Complete a short skills-based evaluation to show us your strengths beyond a resume.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
Job Title: Sustainability Manager
Location: [City, State or Remote]
Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: [Insert range]
Job Brief
We are looking for a Sustainability Manager to develop and execute strategies that reduce our environmental footprint, improve efficiency, and meet evolving ESG standards. You will work with leadership and cross-functional teams to embed sustainability into our business and report progress to stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement sustainability programs across departments
- Manage ESG reporting and ensure compliance with standards
- Collaborate with supply chain and operations to reduce emissions and waste
- Research sustainability trends, policies, and best practices
- Engage employees through workshops, training, and initiatives
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in sustainability, environmental science, business, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in sustainability/ESG role
- Knowledge of environmental regulations and reporting frameworks
- Strong data analysis and presentation skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Perks & Benefits
- [Insert medical, dental, vision]
- [Insert PTO / holidays / volunteer days]
- [Insert 401(k) or retirement contributions]
- [Insert growth/training opportunities]
📥 How to Apply
Please apply via WorkScreen: [Insert link]. Our process includes a short, role-relevant evaluation to give you a fair shot beyond just your resume.
Why Use WorkScreen.io After Writing Your Job Description
You’ve put effort into writing a job description that’s clear, inspiring, and transparent. But here’s the next challenge: what happens once the applications start coming in?
Most hiring teams face two big problems at this stage:
- Sorting through a flood of resumes — many of which are copy-pasted or AI-generated.
- Figuring out who’s actually qualified beyond polished credentials.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
🚀 WorkScreen Helps You Hire Smarter
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily run one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Filter out low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
💡 Why It Matters for Sustainability Roles
Sustainability professionals often need to show a blend of strategy, data skills, and cross-functional collaboration. Resumes rarely reveal that. With WorkScreen, you can test for the qualities that really matter—like problem-solving, adaptability, and communication.
Next Step:
Once your job description is ready, create your posting in WorkScreen.io, share the link with candidates, and let the platform automatically handle the screening process for you. You’ll save time, reduce bias, and hire with confidence.
FAQs - Sustainability Manager Job Description
Beyond technical knowledge of ESG frameworks and environmental regulations, the best Sustainability Managers bring a blend of strategic, analytical, and interpersonal skills. Look for:
- Data & Analytical Ability – to track emissions, waste, and energy metrics and translate them into actionable insights.
- Project Management – to coordinate cross-functional initiatives and keep sustainability goals on track.
- Communication & Storytelling – to explain sustainability results in plain English for employees, executives, and external stakeholders.
- Change Management – to influence departments that may be resistant to change and embed sustainable practices in everyday business.
- Adaptability – because standards, regulations, and expectations in this field evolve quickly.
Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of experience. In the U.S., most Sustainability Managers earn between $75,000 and $110,000 annually, with senior roles at larger companies reaching upwards of $120,000–$140,000. Entry-level or junior sustainability roles tend to start around $50,000–$65,000.
Success isn’t just about publishing a glossy sustainability report. A strong Sustainability Manager delivers:
- Clear year-over-year reductions in emissions, waste, or energy use.
- Integration of sustainability goals into day-to-day operations.
- Improved ESG ratings or compliance scores.
- Evidence of employee engagement and culture shift (e.g., higher participation in sustainability initiatives).
