Air Pollution Specialist

The Monitoring and Laboratory Division (MLD) is seeking highly qualified candidates to join the Operation and Support Section (ODSS) within the Air Monitoring Support Branch. The candidate will be technically skilled and data-savvy professional and support its ambient air monitoring programs. This position is ideal for someone passionate about environmental data systems, instrumentation, and public health. You’ll be part of a dynamic team responsible for managing and improving the digital backbone of California’s air quality monitoring network.

 

ODSS staff are responsible for the administration and enhancement of CARB’s air quality data systems, including the Air Quality Data Management System (AQDMS) and CARBLogger. You’ll work with real-time data clients and ensure seamless data submission to the U.S. EPA’s national air quality database. Your work will help ensure compatibility, consistency, and accuracy across multiple platforms and data streams.
 

Responsibilities:

• Operate, maintain, and improve digital databases and data acquisition systems.

• Ingest, validate, and export ambient air monitoring data with robust data governance.

• Develop open-source software and hardware tools to support data workflows.

• Design and evaluate air monitoring technologies and sampling methods.

• Provide technical support for field instrumentation, including troubleshooting and repair.

• Create SOPs, guidance documents, and technical reports.

• Coordinate with contractors, IT staff, EPA, and other stakeholders to unify data systems.

• Manage contracts for instrumentation certification, calibration, and vendor support.

• Deliver training and consultation on air monitoring instrumentation and data systems.

ODSS team members collaborate closely with other branches within MLD, divisions across CARB, external stakeholders, air districts, other CalEPA departments, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Working Conditions

This position may be eligible for hybrid in-office work and in-state telework. The amount of telework is at the agency's discretion and is based on the California Air Resources Boards' (CARB) current telework policy. While the CARB may support telework, some in-person attendance is also required. 

The positions at the CARB may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position under Government Code 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California, subject to the candidate meeting telework eligibility criteria outlined in the CalEPA telework policy and/or future program need. Employees not residing in California are not eligible for telework. Regardless of hybrid telework eligibility, all employees may be required to report to the position’s designated headquarters location at their own expense, as indicated on their duty statement.

• Requires being stationary, consistent with office work, for extended periods.
• Standard office environment (artificial lighting, controlled temperature, etc.)  
• Daily use of a personal computer, office equipment, and/or telephone.
   
• Requires repetitive movement of heavy objects
• Must be able to move/transport equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. 
• Occasional outdoor work at air monitoring stations
• Occasional work that may include overnight travel
• Adherence to safety-related practices and training requirements.