Air Monitoring Coordinator (Natural Resource Scientist 4)

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Air Monitoring Coordinator (Natural Resource Scientist 4)

Salary
$61,212.00 – $80,304.00 Annually
Location
Thurston County – Lacey, WA
Job Type
Full Time – Permanent
Department
Dept. of Ecology
Job Number
2018-AQ0807-05117
Closing
Continuous
Description
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Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
Protecting Washington State’s environment for current and future generations is what we do every day at Ecology. We have a culture that is invested in making a difference. If you want to join a team that is highly effective, collaborative, has leadership that embraces the value of people, Ecology is a good fit.

The Air Quality Program (AQ) is looking to fill an Air Monitoring Coordinator (Natural Resource Scientist 4) position. This position is located in our Headquarters Building in Lacey, WA.

Air Monitoring is becoming increasingly complex. We have more sophisticated devices, more difficult technical problems to solve, and more connections to other scientists and other disciplines (e.g. meteorology, atmospheric chemistry, and modeling.)  We are looking for applicants that have advanced scientific abilities as well as the ability to work with others in the program and the state, and also be able to readily speak to managers to help with critical funding and resource decisions.

As an agency, our mission is to protect, preserve and enhance Washington’s environment for current and future generations. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism and accountability. Maybe you’ve seen some of our recent stories on TwitterFacebookInstagram or our blog.

To learn more about our agency, please visit our website at www.ecology.wa.gov.

Local efforts… Diverse people… Statewide impacts

Duties
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Agency Mission:  Ecology’s mission is to protect, preserve and enhance Washington’s environment and to promote the wise management of our air, land and water for the benefit of current and future generations.

Program Mission: The Air Quality Program’s mission is to enhance and protect air quality in Washington State. This position serves as Ecology’s designated scientific expert in the field of ambient air monitoring. This position plans and conducts original air monitoring scientific research and collaborates with other Air Quality Program scientists to provide vital information on air quality that will be used by the Air Quality Program to accomplish its strategic goals and mission.

The Air Monitoring Coordinator position uses expert scientific knowledge of air monitoring, atmospheric science, and human exposure science, as well as sophisticated data analysis skills, to conduct original scientific research in ambient air monitoring. This position researches and drafts short and long-term policy recommendations to Program management on efficient and effective use of program resources to fully understand and accurately characterize air quality and avoid non-attainment with air standards.

This position consults with the Air Quality Program Leadership Team and the Monitoring Advisory Committee and coordinates with external partner management to implement original air monitoring research that helps the Program achieve its strategic goals and mission. As such, this position serves as the agency expert in defining, planning, designing, and implementing important air monitoring research on new approaches and technologies in the science of ambient air monitoring where there is little to no precedent.

This position analyzes and applies the latest air monitoring, atmospheric, and human exposure science and uses this information to provide expert scientific and technical consultative services to the Program, local air agencies, the US EPA, US Forest Service, National Park Service, tribal nation personnel, the public and others on the science of ambient air monitoring.

Examples of projects this position will handle are:

  • Air basin specific assessments to find what is happening with air chemistry and develop solutions to keep the air within standards,
  • Science based searches for the sources of air pollution, and recommendations for solutions,
  • Collaboration with modelers and operators to properly site monitoring equipment,
  • Review and assessment of new air monitoring technology and methodology,
  • Collaboration with program and outside scientists and toxicologists on emerging trends and threats to air quality and health,
  • Working with our policy group on air quality exceptional events to make good cases to EPA to avoid (where appropriate) non-attainment,
  • Science-based work to evaluate smoke impacts from wildfires.
  • Science work supporting specific projects such as the Yakima basin nitrogen study, the Tri-Cities ozone work, and wildfire smoke mortality studies.  These projects are controversial and need skilled staff evaluating, writing, and helping management to be correctly positioned on the issues.

This position…..

  • Keeps our state monitoring network in compliance with federal standards.
  • Beyond that, advocates for better monitoring to address WA air quality needs.

Types of problems this position gets to solve….

  • Where should we site our monitors?
  • How can we stay in compliance with standards?  Which ones can we let go (if any?)
  • What new technology (monitors, software, GIS, web, etc.) can help in our mission to protect air quality?
  • What functional programmatic changes are needed?

Interesting Aspects of this position….

  • Air Quality is all about human health. We all breathe a lot. Improving air quality has a direct benefit to health.
  • Air Quality is in the midst of many emerging initiatives, including vehicle emissions, climate, roadway impacts, ozone, toxics, etc. This position is at the nexus of those issues and how we are able to report the state of our air quality.
  • Ecology has developed many great relationships with local universities, agencies, and others. We are building a science-based group to handle air quality.

The Culture of the team….

  • The team is diverse and fun. There is musical talent, many outdoor and athletic pursuits, a broad range of experience in terms of age, education, and previous jobs.
  • We are pretty good (and getting better!) at having crucial conversations quickly and calmly.

This recruitment will remain open until filled. The initial screening will be June 4, 2018.  In order to be considered for the initial screening, please submit an application on or before June 3, 2018. The agency reserves the right to make an appointment any time after the initial screening date.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree with a major study in a natural science

AND

Six (6) years of professional research work experience in ambient air monitoring, atmospheric chemistry, human exposure science or other closely allied field.

A Master’s degree will substitute for two (2) years of the required experience, provided the field of major study was in ambient air monitoring, atmospheric, or human exposure science.

A Ph.D. degree will substitute for three (3) years of the required experience, provided the field of major study was in the specialty field.

Desired Qualifications:

We are looking for scientific educational or professional expertise in air quality issues – this includes atmospheric chemistry, air quality measurement or evaluation expertise, ability to help decide proper air quality priorities in this state, ability to evaluate proper AQ priorities, and working with our program scientific and policy staff to make correct and strategic moves for AQ progress. We need a person able to write and manage grants and contracts with our partners, as well as providing scientific expertise.

  • Five (5) years of experience using R, SigmaPlot, ChemStat, Minitab, IGOR Pro, SAS or other data analysis software.
  • Five (5) years of experience using GIS systems (such as ArcGIS) to analyze and display environmental information.
  • Demonstrated advanced understanding of the principles of air monitoring.
  • Five (5) years of experience in calibrating, maintaining, and operating air monitoring equipment.
  • Demonstrated understanding of Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, rules, policy, and guidance that affect ambient air monitoring.
  • Demonstrated understanding of exploratory data analysis and familiar with non-parametric statistics.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze environmental data sets; to take initiative to research issues, to seek out and use computer models and other data sources, to and initiate and complete projects.
  • Demonstrated skill in writing and preparing presentations, scientific publications, and reports, as well as the ability to present technically complex information in a way that is understandable to a wide variety of audiences.
  • Ability to quickly learn contracts and grant procedures, in concert with our budget group.

Special Requirements / Conditions of Employment:

  • Obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Why work for Ecology?

Joining Ecology means becoming a part of a team committed to protecting and restoring Washington State’s environment.

A career in public service allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping the health and financial security of you and your family a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to work/life balance.

Ecology employees may be eligible for the following:
Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s)Public Employees Retirement System (PERS),  Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, Public Service Loan ForgivenessTuition Waiver,  Long Term Disability & Life InsuranceDeferred Compensation ProgramsDependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP),  Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA)Employee Assistance ProgramCommute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader)Combined Fund DriveSmartHealth

Student debt and how working for Ecology can help
Employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, which forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. See https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service for more details.

*See the Benefits tab in this announcement for more information

Supplemental Information
Application Instructions:

Please complete the applicant profile when applying for this position.

In order to be considered, applicants MUST attach a resume, and cover letter that describes their interest in this position.

Please read the supplemental questions carefully and answer completely. Incomplete responses, including “please see resume” may disqualify you from further consideration.

Department of Ecology employees, please make sure to answer the agency-wide questions regarding permanent status as a classified employee within the Washington General Service or Washington Management Service. Do not forget to select Department of Ecology as a response to question 2, and type your personnel ID number for question 3. If you are not sure of your status or do not know your personnel ID number, please contact Human Resources.

If you are reading this announcement in print format, please visit www.careers.wa.gov to access the online recruitment system. Click on “Look for Jobs” and select Dept. of Ecology under the “Department” search list. Click “Apply Search.”

Other Information:

If you need assistance applying for this job, please e-mail careers@ecy.wa.gov. Please do not send an email to this address to follow-up the status of your application. You can view the latest status of your application on your profile’s main page.

If you have specific questions about the position, please email Cullen Stephenson at: cste461@ecy.wa.gov. Please do not contact Cullen to inquire about the status of your application.

The act of submitting application materials electronically is considered affirmation that the information is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information and any untruthful or misleading answers are cause for rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.

This position is included in the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) union bargaining unit for the Department of Ecology. All employees covered by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the WFSE will, as a condition of employment, either become members of the WFSE and pay membership dues or, as non-members, pay a representation fee as described in the CBA, no later than the 30th day following the effective date of this CBA or the beginning of their employment.

The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 407-6186. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career and that your priority is making sure that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That’s why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work. Check with the agency human resource office for specific benefit information.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance.  There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.  Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses.  Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.  To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems‘ web site.
 
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
 
Vacation (Annual Leave)
You begin accruing vacation starting your first month of employment. Since we value your loyalty, the amount of vacation you can accrue increases the longer you work with us. Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Vacation accrues for full-time employees per WAC 357-31-165.

Holidays

Full-time employees are entitled to eleven* paid holidays:

HOLIDAY
DATE
New Year’s Day
January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday
Third Monday in January
Presidents’ Day
Third Monday in February
Memorial Day
Last Monday in May
Independence Day
July 4
Labor Day
First Monday in September
Veterans’ Day
November 11
Thanksgiving Day
Fourth Thursday in November & Friday after
Christmas Day
December 25
Personal Holiday
Employee’s selection each calendar year

*Employees who are members of certain Unions are entitled to an additional personal leave day of their choice. Please refer to specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

 
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Paid sick leave may be used for reasons included in WAC 357-31-130.
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information.
01
How did you hear about this job posting?

  • Community Based Organization
  • Community / Technical College
  • Ecology Employee
  • Ecology Recruiter
  • Ecology Jobs Page
  • Facebook
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • Newspaper
  • Other State Agency
  • Other Website
  • Professional Association
  • Twitter
  • University Job Board
  • WorkSource
  • www.careers.wa.gov
02
If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board or WorkSource location then please share which one.
03
Please select the statement that best describes your level of education in a natural science.

  • I have a Bachelor’s degree.
  • I have a Master’s degree.
  • I have a PhD.
  • None of the above statements apply.
04
Please indicate your degree and major study.
05
Please select the statement that best describes your professional research work experience in ambient air monitoring, atmospheric chemistry, human exposure science or other closely allied field.

  • I have at least three years of experience.
  • I have at least four years of experience.
  • I have at least six years of experience.
  • None of the above statements apply.
06
Please provide additional information to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including “please see resume” may remove you from further consideration.
07
Please describe in 200 words or less, how you have effectively brought science to managers.
08
Please describe in 200 words or less, what the role of science is in Air Quality.

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact