Program Section Supervisor - Air Quality Research and Monitoring

State of Montana•Helena, MT

About The Position

We are seeking a Section Supervisor to join the Air Quality Bureau within the Air, Energy, and Mining Division. This leadership position oversees the Research and Monitoring Services Section and is responsible for implementing agency, division, and bureau priorities while managing the section’s daily operations. Montana’s ambient air monitoring network plays a critical role in tracking, assessing, and reporting statewide air quality conditions and trends, as required by state and federal Clean Air Acts. The Air Quality Monitoring Program collaborates with local air pollution control agencies to collect high‑quality air monitoring data. These data support regulatory decision-making and provide timely and accurate air quality information to local partners and the public. Key responsibilities include: Oversight of the State Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network. Leading and developing staff by clearly communicating priorities, setting expectations, delivering timely feedback, managing performance, and supporting professional growth. Developing and coordinating annual work plans, ensuring alignment with DEQ strategic goals and operational needs. Working closely with the Bureau Chief to establish program direction, identify strategic priorities, assess operational effectiveness, and communicate emerging issues or areas of concern. Implementing policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance, scientific integrity, and continuous improvement of business processes. Managing program funding by setting fiscally responsible goals, monitoring budgets, and evaluating financial performance in accordance with statutory and grant requirements. Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, facilitating communication among diverse interest groups, and supporting collaborative, science‑based solutions to air quality challenges. This position requires strong leadership skills, the ability to guide scientific work with clarity and purpose, and a commitment to maintaining high-quality environmental data for the benefit of Montana communities. At the Department of Environmental Quality, our goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana. DEQ employees are the heart of our organization. We value the people and invest in their professional growth, promoting a culture of cross-agency collaboration as we find solutions to the environmental challenges we face. DEQ values – leadership, accountability, customer service, efficiency, excellence, and decision making – are fundamental to our work. Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality! Applications, including supplemental materials such as cover letter and resume, must be submitted through the State of Montana Careers site (https ://statecareers.mt.gov/) by the closing date of the announcement. In your cover letter, describe how your education, knowledge and skills have prepared you for this position. The Section Supervisor position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression. The State of Montana has a decentralized human resources (HR) system. Each agency is responsible for its own recruitment and selection. Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the agency's HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application. State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant. Effective February 23, 2026, this agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https ://www.e-verify.gov/

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent education.
Three or more years of progressively responsible experience including demonstrated leadership or supervision, may include experience from informal roles, and proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
May require current valid Driver's License and clean driving record in accordance with State of Montana Vehicle Use Policy
Other combinations of education and experience may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Nice To Haves

Preferred experience with business and management principles involved in planning, resource allocation, setting priorities, human resources management, leadership techniques, coordination of people and resources, and communication skills focused on stakeholder outreach.
Preferred education or experience in program area.

Responsibilities

Oversight of the State Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network.
Leading and developing staff by clearly communicating priorities, setting expectations, delivering timely feedback, managing performance, and supporting professional growth.
Developing and coordinating annual work plans, ensuring alignment with DEQ strategic goals and operational needs.
Working closely with the Bureau Chief to establish program direction, identify strategic priorities, assess operational effectiveness, and communicate emerging issues or areas of concern.
Implementing policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance, scientific integrity, and continuous improvement of business processes.
Managing program funding by setting fiscally responsible goals, monitoring budgets, and evaluating financial performance in accordance with statutory and grant requirements.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, facilitating communication among diverse interest groups, and supporting collaborative, science‑based solutions to air quality challenges.

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