Job Posting: Air Pollution Specialist (APS)

State Air Resources Board

JC-497053
-
Air Pollution Specialist (APS)
AIR POLLUTION SPECIALIST

$5,918.00 - $11,455.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Final Filing Date: 11/16/2025

Job Description and Duties

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is seeking a motivated, innovative, and technically  oriented individual to contribute to a team of multidisciplinary scientists and engineers to develop, maintain, and enhance CARB’s emissions inventories in support of State Implementation Plans (SIPs), community health initiatives, and regulatory development. 

The section works closely with and collects stationary source emissions data from California's 35 air districts pursuant state and federal requirements. A core function of the section is to improve the quality of this data through a variety of mechanisms. To that end, they develop and maintain data applications for the collection of emissions data, data management, and reporting tools. These tools support SIPs and regulations, and provide communities, air districts, regulators, scientists, state agencies, and other stakeholders with accessible, reliable, and user-friendly emissions data, helping them understand what pollutants are released into the air and by whom. In addition, the section closely collaborates with CARB staff, other government agencies, and academic researchers to develop and implement novel QAQC checks, develop methodologies for estimating emissions from stationary sources and review methdologies submitted by air districts.

The work this section produces is foundational to improving air quality in California. In this position you'll be a vital partner to air quality planning, photochemical modeling, regulation development, community-level emission reduction plans, and project level assessments. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a solid scientific background in air quality, air quality modeling, emissions inventory, stationary source emissions, or a closely related field.  

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 Resource 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.

Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee shall receive a 3 percent reduction in pay in exchange for 5 hours PLP 2025 leave credits, monthly. The salary range(s) included in the job advertisement do not reflect the 3 percent reduction in pay.

  • Position located in a high-rise building.
  • 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.

Minimum Requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

Additional Documents

Position Details

Job Code #:
JC-497053
Position #(s):
673-710-3887-018
673-710-3887-017
Working Title:
Air Pollution Specialist (APS)
Classification:
AIR POLLUTION SPECIALIST
$5,918.00 - $7,059.00 A
$7,089.00 - $8,872.00 B
$9,158.00 - $11,455.00 C
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time

Department Information

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.; for more information about E-Verify, please go to www.dhs.gov/e-verify

CARB values diversity at all levels of the organization and is committed to fostering an environment where employees from various backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. CARB believes the diversity of our employees collectively makes up one of the world’s most respected environmental organizations. CARB offers various modern interview options, including remote phone and video interviews. Join CARB and help us improve the lives of all Californians.

Department Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov

Special Requirements

In the cover letter (2 pages maximum) please describe your interest in this specific position and how your professional experiences can contribute to the objectives of the program. Please describe relevant professional experience and technical skills as they are related to the Desirable Qualifications, the Job Description and Duties sections, and the Duty Statement.  

Application Instructions

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date: 11/16/2025

Who May Apply

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

How To Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

Address for Mailing Application Packages

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

State Air Resources Board
Essam Gad
Attn: Classification and Certification Unit
1001 I Street, 5th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

State Air Resources Board
Essam Gad
Classification and Certification Unit
1001 I Street, 5th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
The drop-off location is non-operational on weekends and holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Other - Cover Letter
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

We are seeking an agile, self-motivated, and innovative thinker who can adapt to evolving program needs. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a solid scientific background in air quality, air quality modeling, emissions inventory, stationary source emissions, or a closely related field.

Given that this role involves overseeing the compilation and quality assurance of CARB's comprehensive emissions inventory as well as overseeing a team responsible for the development and enhancement of data management and visualization tools, prior experience in the following areas is highly desirable: data management and quality assurance of large datasets from many providers; independently developing or managing complex data systems; designing advanced data query and visualization tools; and translating complex scientific information into formats that are accessible and meaningful to the public. The most competetive candidates will have experience working with relational databases and programming languages such as SQL, R, and Python, data analysis and extraction using  geographic information systems (ArcGIS Pro and ArcMap) and data visualization tools such as PHP, HTML, CSS, and Tableau.

The most competitive candidates will demonstrate curiosity, motivation, and a commitment to excellence. Key qualifications include: outstanding organizational, interpersonal and analytical skills; independent initiative, critical thinking, and sound problem-solving abilities; the ability to perform well under pressure and work well in a team-oriented environment; knowledge of air pollution control technologies and their impact on emissions from stationary sources; familiarity with stationary source and facility permitting, experience with evaluating emissions from various industrial processes, such as combustion, coating operations, and chemical manufacturing through reviewing and analyzing source test reports, continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS) data; a commitment to scientific integrity; and strong communication skills—oral, written, and graphical. The candidate must be able to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences, collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels of government and the public, adapt to rapidly shifting priorities, meet tight deadlines, and handle sensitive or confidential matters with discretion and professionalism.

Candidates should also be adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously and cultivating a supportive, trust-based team culture that promotes professional growth. Because this section provides high-quality, user-friendly emissions data to impacted communities, community groups, the public, regulators, and scientists, cultural sensitivity and the ability to engage diverse audiences is highly valued. Fluency in multiple languages and life experiences relevant to the communities we serve are especially desirable.

Applicants will be evaluated based on how well they meet the desirable qualifications outlined above. A cover letter is required as part of the application package. In your cover letter (maximum of two pages), please describe your interest in this specific position and how your background and experience align with the program’s goals. Address your relevant technical expertise and professional accomplishments as they relate to the Desirable Qualifications, Job Description and Duties, and Duty Statement.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
  • Nearby (third-party) Parking
  • Convenient to public transportation
  • Gym
  • Daycare facility
  • Bike storage and locker rooms

Contact Information

The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.

Department Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Jake Rivas
(000) -
jake.rivas@arb.ca.gov

Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.

EEO Contact:
Payam Ahmadi
(279) 208-7110
EEOP@arb.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Experience and Education

For experience/education to qualify during the application screening process and to ensure that minimum qualifications can be determined, applicants should include all employment history on the Employment Application (STD 678), including detailed job descriptions, hours worked per week, and start/end dates (MM/DD/YYYY). Application packages without this information may experience delayed processing times, and your eligibility for this position may be impacted.

If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must submit a copy of your transcript or diploma.  Applicants who completed their education outside the United States (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must obtain and submit verification of the United States course/degree equivalency.

Foreign education credential evaluation services can be found at https://www.naces.org

Failure to submit all the required documentation will result in an incomplete application and disqualification from consideration for this position.

Address for Mailing or Drop-Off Application Packages

Applying electronically via CalCareers is highly recommended. If submitting hardcopy applications (mail/drop-off), please email Essam.Gad@arb.ca.gov with the JC number in the subject line to confirm submission. Your email will serve as a time stamp that a document was dropped off before the final filing date. Drop-off applications must be received, and date stamped by 5:00 PM on the final filing date.

NOTE: Applicants must not include Social Security Numbers, LEAP status information or paperwork, Equal Employment Opportunity information, exam result notices or scores, or medical or criminal history information on any document within their application package.

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

California Environmental Protection Agency/State Air Resources Board
Attn: Human Resources Branch/ Classification & Certification unit, JC-497053
1001 I Street, 5th Floor/P.O. Box 2815
Sacramento, CA 95814

Drop-off applications must be received, and date stamped by 5:00 PM on the final filing date. The drop-off location is non-operational on weekends and holidays. 

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

Application Methods:
Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
Drop-off
Print Job