Posted: 8/29/2024
Remote US (Chicago, IL preferred)

The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) is an organization dedicated to fostering greater understanding and use of precast and prestressed concrete. Founded in 1954, PCI is the technical institute for the precast, prestressed concrete structures industry. PCI develops, maintains, and disseminates the Body of Knowledge for designing, fabricating, and constructing precast concrete structures and systems. It is from this Body of Knowledge that buildings codes, design guides, education, and certification programs are derived.  PCI provides technical resources, certification for companies and individuals, and continuing education. Additionally, it conducts research and development projects, conventions, conferences, awards programs, and much more.

Position Overview: The Director of Sustainability reports to the President/CEO and is a member of the PCI Leadership Team. The Director of Sustainability will be a key leader in shaping and executing our sustainability strategy. This role involves developing and implementing sustainability initiatives that align with our mission and industry goals, leading research and advocacy efforts, and engaging with industry partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders. The ideal candidate must have a strong background in sustainability practices, particularly within the construction and concrete industry.   Experience managing government grants, including those related to sustainability is a plus. 

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Advance the interests of the Institute and the industry within the major forums for developing technology, evaluation systems, codes, and standards relating to sustainability.
    • Monitor sustainability-related issues and actions taken by outside organizations and identify those that may impact the industry or offer improvement opportunities.
    • Represent the industry and the Institute in sustainability-related meetings, conferences, and presentations.
    • Identify and collaborate with other associations, government organizations, and other outside allies to support the Institute’s sustainability objectives.
  • Oversee and coordinate the management of any sustainability-related government grants.
  • Implement and improve the Institute's sustainability programs, including planning, managing, and reporting relating to sustainability.
    • Develop plans and budgets for PCI’s sustainability programs and for individual sustainability-related projects.
    • Provide technical direction and project management for individual sustainability-related projects.
    • Prepare information, status, and perspective for distribution to PCI members and governance regarding PCI sustainability-related activities.
  • Provide administrative and technical support to the PCI Sustainability Committee, including attendance at committee meetings and sub-committee meetings.
  • Provide or coordinate effective vigilance or industry representation, as appropriate, on committees and forums of other organizations relating to sustainability , including:
    • Alliance for Concrete Codes and Standards (ACCS)
    • American Concrete Institute (ACI) Committee 130 on Sustainability and ACI 323 Low-Carbon Concrete Code
    • American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
    • ASTM International Committee E60 on Sustainability
    • International Code Council (ICC)
    • Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) Sustainability Committee
    • U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
  • Manage the Institute's development and dissemination of sustainability-related knowledge products, including education programs to assist members in developing Environmental Product Declarations (EPD’s).
  • Manage the Institute's sustainability-related research, including current and future Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) of products and projects.
  • Respond to inquiries from PCI members, the industry, and the general public regarding the sustainability of precast concrete structures and PCI sustainability-related activities.
  • Develop and deliver internal and external presentations on various sustainability subjects to educate stakeholders and promote the use of precast concrete.
  • Coordinate volunteer and PCI Staff as appropriate for achieving objectives.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Engineering, Architecture or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in sustainability, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
  • Proven experience in the concrete industry, specifically precast concrete is highly desirable.
  • Strong knowledge of sustainability frameworks, certifications, and best practices.
  • Exceptional leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.
  • Experience with grant writing and managing sustainability-related grant funding preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Ability to travel 25% to 33% of the time.

We offer:

  • Competitive wages and comprehensive insurance program
    • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, and STD
  • 401(k) Plan (3% safe harbor and up to 3% match)
  • Paid time off (Vacation & Personal)
  • Friendly work environment that encourages respect, trust, and integrity
  • Commitment to our staff’s professional development

How to Apply:

PCI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

If you are interested in applying, please send your cover letter and resume to Beth Taylor, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer at btaylor@pci.org.