Research Scientist 2 (Air Pollution)

Description
Duties Description
Under the general supervision of a Research Scientist III and working in coordination with the Bureau of Air Quality Analysis & Research (BAQAR) Air Toxics Section (ATS) Chief and other Research Scientists in the Division of Air Resources (DAR), the incumbent will work on various multi-disciplinary tasks, including:
Applied Research and Data Analysis

• Research and develop short- and long-term guideline concentrations for toxic air contaminants to ensure public health protections during the air permitting process. Keep appraised of updates on previously published toxicity information by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other authoritative organizations.
• Keep appraised of research into the development of regulations to protect public health and the environment from the impacts of toxic air contaminants and communicate findings to other DAR staff.
• Keep current with research on emerging contaminants of concern including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Perform statistical analysis of PFAS levels in rainfall and other environmental media.
• Coordinate research efforts with Research Scientists, Engineers, Environmental Program Specialists, and Air Pollution Meteorologists in DAR and other DEC Environmental Quality divisions.
• Present research findings at technical conferences and in scientific journals.
• Attend workshops, webinars, and trainings and follow the latest scientific literature on emerging contaminants, new measurement technologies, emissions test methods, and data analysis techniques.

Program Coordination and Support

• Provide technical support to regional air permitting staff on the proper implementation of the regulation regarding the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants applicability, submission of accurate and complete air toxic emissions, and completion of Toxic Impact Assessments. Evaluate draft air permits for the proper implementation of 6NYCRR Part 212 and provide guidance to regional staff on hazard identification and exposure assessment of toxic air contaminants.
• Prepare well-researched technical memorandums and reports in response to requests from regional air permitting staff.
• Develop standard operating procedures for the process of developing short- and long-term guideline concentrations for toxic air contaminants.
• Participate in and provide technical assistance to DEC’s PFAS workgroup.
• Assist with developing responses to EPA proposed actions as needed.
• Supervise and mentor junior level Research Scientists and seasonal DAR staff as needed.

Technical Assistance to Partner Organizations

• Participate in multistate committee meetings and workshops (e.g. NESCAUM, NEWMOA, NACAA) to communicate New York’s priorities and interests.
• Respond to inquiries and data requests from other agencies, research organizations, and the public.
• As needed, collaborate with toxicologists at the NYS Department of Health on developing ambient guideline concentrations for toxic air contaminants with limited toxicological data and/or those with greater public scrutiny.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor's degree and three years of professional research experience in atmospheric science, chemistry, environmental chemistry, environmental sciences, or public health. A Master of Science or higher degree in Atmospheric Science, Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Health, Environmental Science, Epidemiology, Public Health, or related field is preferred. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.
Substitution options: A Master’s degree in the appropriate fields described above may substitute for one year of experience, and a Ph.D. in these fields may substitute for an additional year of experience.
Area of Specialty is Air Pollution. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the following fields: atmospheric science, environmental chemistry, public health, toxicology, risk communication, statistical analysis and interpretation of air quality data, ambient air quality measurements, and air quality modeling.
Essential Functions

• Must be able to interact professionally with co-workers and supervisors, and work collaboratively in team settings.
• Must be able to prepare detailed, technically accurate, well written reports.
• Must possess strong written and verbal communication skills to present results and analysis.
• Must have knowledge and experience in the use of higher-level computer programs.
• Must be able to travel to meetings and conferences.

Additional Comments
Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
Travel may be required.
Overtime may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.
Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.
We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including:

• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Shift & Geographic pay differentials
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
• And many more...

For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.
Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e. H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT).