Application Guide

How to Apply for Communications and Marketing Manager

at Product Stewardship Institute

🏢 About Product Stewardship Institute

PSI is a policy expert and consulting nonprofit that pioneered product stewardship in the U.S. and has helped enact 149 EPR laws across 33 states. Working here means joining a mission-driven team at the forefront of the EPR movement, with a collaborative culture and the opportunity to shape waste reduction policy nationwide.

About This Role

As Communications and Marketing Manager, you'll lead storytelling efforts to advance EPR policies, manage digital and traditional communications, and amplify PSI's impact. This role is critical for engaging stakeholders, from legislators to the public, and driving awareness of sustainable product management.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a team check-in via Zoom, then drafting a press release about a new EPR bill, followed by scheduling social media posts to highlight PSI's recent webinar. Afternoon could involve meeting with a partner organization to plan a joint campaign, then analyzing media coverage and updating the website with new resources.

🎯 Who Product Stewardship Institute Is Looking For

  • Passionate about waste reduction, reuse, and recycling policy with a demonstrated commitment to environmental causes.
  • Experienced in strategic communications, including media relations, social media, and content creation, with a portfolio of successful campaigns.
  • Highly organized and collaborative, able to manage multiple projects and stakeholders in a fast-paced, remote environment.
  • Skilled storyteller who can translate complex policy issues into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.

📝 Tips for Applying to Product Stewardship Institute

1

Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience with EPR, product stewardship, or environmental policy communications.

2

Include metrics in your resume (e.g., 'Increased social media engagement by 40%') to demonstrate impact.

3

Mention any familiarity with PSI's work, such as specific EPR laws or campaigns they've led.

4

Showcase your ability to work remotely by providing examples of self-management and virtual collaboration.

5

Submit a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to simplify complex topics (e.g., a blog post or press release on EPR).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express genuine passion for waste reduction and alignment with PSI's mission of extended producer responsibility.", 'Highlight relevant experience in communications for policy or nonprofit organizations, with concrete examples.', "Demonstrate understanding of PSI's history and impact, referencing specific laws or partnerships.", 'Emphasize your storytelling skills and ability to engage diverse stakeholders.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review PSI's website and recent publications to understand their current campaigns and messaging.
  • Read about the EPR laws PSI has helped enact, especially in packaging or product categories.
  • Familiarize yourself with key partners and members (e.g., state governments, businesses).
  • Understand the competitive landscape of environmental nonprofits and how PSI differentiates itself.
Visit Product Stewardship Institute's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you communicate a complex EPR policy to a general audience?
2 Describe a time you managed a communications campaign with multiple stakeholders.
3 How do you stay updated on environmental policy trends?
4 What strategies would you use to increase PSI's social media presence?
5 How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, remote environment?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter; it must show specific knowledge of PSI and EPR.
  • Avoid focusing solely on creative skills without demonstrating policy or nonprofit experience.
  • Don't overlook the remote work aspect; highlight your ability to work independently and communicate asynchronously.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Product Stewardship Institute!