Application Guide

How to Apply for Used Lead Acid Battery (ULAB) Advisor

at Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute

🏢 About Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute

Pure Earth is unique as an international nonprofit specifically focused on evidence-based solutions to toxic pollution in low- and middle-income countries, with specialized expertise in lead and mercury exposure. Working here offers the opportunity to directly impact human health through practical, on-the-ground environmental interventions rather than just advocacy.

About This Role

This ULAB Advisor role involves providing thought leadership on the global lead acid battery industry while developing practical implementation playbooks for safer recycling in developing countries. The position is impactful because it bridges research, policy, and field work to reduce lead exposure among vulnerable populations engaged in informal ULAB recycling.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing ULAB supply chain data from a specific region, collaborating remotely with country teams on mass balance studies, and developing sections of a policy playbook for safer recycling practices. This could be followed by virtual meetings with recyclers, government officials, or partner organizations to advance implementation strategies.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years of hands-on experience with LAB industry dynamics, including deep knowledge of both formal and informal recycling sectors in multiple regions
  • Demonstrates strategic thinking with proven ability to translate research into actionable policy recommendations and implementation frameworks
  • Possesses field experience in low- and middle-income countries, ideally with mass balance studies or environmental assessments
  • Has established networks with LAB manufacturers, recyclers, trade associations, and government agencies relevant to battery regulation

📝 Tips for Applying to Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute

1

Quantify your experience with LAB industry specifics - mention specific countries, recycling methods, or supply chain segments you've worked with

2

Highlight any direct experience with informal sector livelihoods or alternative employment programs in environmental contexts

3

Demonstrate knowledge of Pure Earth's existing ULAB projects by referencing their work in countries like Bangladesh, India, or the Philippines

4

Show how your background bridges technical knowledge (chemistry/engineering) with policy implementation in resource-limited settings

5

Include examples of developing practical tools or playbooks for field implementation, not just policy analysis

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with ULAB recycling in informal sectors and developing countries', 'Examples of translating research into actionable policy or implementation frameworks', "How your network with industry, government, and NGOs can advance Pure Earth's ULAB work", 'Your approach to balancing technical rigor with practical solutions in resource-constrained environments']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Pure Earth's Toxic Sites Identification Program and their specific ULAB projects in countries like Bangladesh, India, or Mexico
  • → The organization's partnership model with local governments and NGOs in implementing solutions
  • → Their previous policy briefs or publications on lead exposure and ULAB recycling
  • → Blacksmith Institute's legacy work that Pure Earth continues (the organization was renamed in 2015)
Visit Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a specific ULAB recycling facility assessment you've conducted and the environmental safeguards you evaluated
2 How would you approach developing alternative livelihoods for informal ULAB workers in a country like Ghana or Indonesia?
3 What are the key differences in ULAB supply chain dynamics between Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa?
4 How have you previously collaborated with manufacturers, recyclers, and governments on policy implementation?
5 Walk us through how you would conduct a mass balance study for a Pure Earth project country
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing only on academic research without demonstrating practical implementation experience
  • Generic environmental policy experience without specific ULAB or lead industry knowledge
  • Assuming this is primarily an advocacy role rather than one requiring technical assessments and field work

📅 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 Pure Earth/Blacksmith Institute!

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