AIR POLLUTION SPECIALIST

State of California•Sacramento, CA

33d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position can be located in Sacramento or Riverside County. The Innovative Strategies Branch (Branch) is seeking an Air Pollution Specialist in the Off-Road and Agricultural Strategies and Incentives Section (Section) to join an energetic and skilled team of professional staff in crafting policy and implementing incentive programs to help achieve California's ambitious air quality, climate, and environmental justice goals. The Innovative Strategies Branch implements incentive projects that equitably transform the transportation, agriculture, and freight sectors, improve the well-being and quality of life for all Californians, and spur and support competitive markets. With open minds we use social, environmental, and economic justice as the guiding principles for our clean transportation policy. The Off-road and Agricultural Strategies and Incentives Section (Section) works within the Innovative Strategies Branch to collaboratively develop and implement innovative strategies on heavy-duty policies and investments, achieving transformative, far-reaching benefits for all. Section responsibilities include the implementation of the Volkswagen Mitigation Incentive Program, implementation of workforce training and development projects, and preparation of the annual Long-Term Heavy-Duty Investment Strategy. In addition, staff may evaluate commercially available vehicle and equipment models for incentive program eligibility, strategize in the development of incentive funding for zero-emission off-road equipment, craft policy and colloborate with regulatory program staff, perform data analysis across the branch, and perform administrative oversight of project activities. This section works closely with the Innovative Heavy-Duty Strategies Section and staff are often matrix managed between the sections. Projects may be widely diverse and include policy and technical research, training and outreach. The Section is seeking a highly motivated person, who excels and thrives to produce quality work in a team setting. Under the supervision of an Air Resources Supervisor I, the Air Pollution Specialist will:

Requirements

Applicants must include a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for this recruitment. The SOQ is a narrative discussion prepared by the applicant describing how their skills, knowledge, abilities, education, training, and experience qualify them for the position. The SOQ documents each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. Candidates whose applications do not include the required SOQ will not be considered for this position. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.
The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

Nice To Haves

Successful candidates for this position will be personable, possess strong policy, technical, analytical and communication skills; demonstrate independent initiative, problem-solving skills, being able to critically evaluate various forms of data, and work effectively under pressure in a team setting.
The most successful applicants will demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively with other staff and agencies; meet deadlines; follow written and verbal instructions; use tact and good judgment in dealing with people; apply good customer service techniques; and to work flexible hours as needed.
Knowledge of or previous experience working with heavy-duty vehicles or equipment and/or zero-emission technology is a plus.
Experience with policy development in grant or incentive funding programs is highly desirable.
The most competitive qualifications include: strong written and verbal communication skills; polished presentation and public speaking skills; proven ability to analyze data and make recommendations; fluid ability to work independently or as part of a team; be comfortable with technical and politically sensitive programs; be able to develop and communicate policy options to all levels of management; be comfortable with a flexible management structure; readily adapt to changing priorities; and travel as needed.

Responsibilities

Perform technical work related to implementation of incentive projects
Prepare written agreements and guidance documents for for the implementation of mobile source incentives
Prepare clear and accurate technical reports, issue papers, and regulatory documentation
Lead the effort to prepare, organize, and coordinate efforts for public workgroup meetings to notify, solict, and evaluate interested parties' feedback
Update implementation manuals, grant solicitations, grant agreements/contracts, incentive applications, and outreach materials
Review and process fund disbursement requests and monitor and track incentive funds
Communicate observations, results, and recommendations verbally and in writing to management
Conduct outreach activities, attend conferences and equipment demonstration events
Evaluate eligibility of applications initially denied and brought to case-by-case review
Work in conjunction with other groups within the California Air Resources Board as well as outside agencies, including local air districts, equipment and vehicle manufacturers, environmental and community-based organizations, and other interested stakeholders.