Review Vacancy

Date Posted: 09/30/22
Applications Due: 10/14/22
Vacancy ID: 113554

Position Information

AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of

TitleResearch Scientist 1

Occupational CategoryI.T. Engineering, Sciences

Salary Grade18

Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)

Salary RangeFrom $61270 to $77912 Annually

Employment Type Full-Time

Appointment Type Permanent

Jurisdictional Class Non-competitive Class

Travel Percentage 30%

Schedule

Workweek Mon-Fri

Hours Per Week 37.5

Workday

From 8:30 AM

To 5 PM

Flextime allowed? No

Mandatory overtime? No

Compressed workweek allowed? No

Telecommuting allowed? Yes

Location

County Rensselaer

Street Address 11 University Place

City Rensselaer

StateNY

Zip Code12144

Job Specifics

Minimum Qualifications A bachelor's degree and two years of professional research experience in an appropriate field, or a master's degree in an appropriate field and one year of professional research experience in that field. Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to travel is required. A Master of Science or higher degree in Atmospheric or Physical Sciences is preferred.

Area of Specialty is Air Pollution. Preference will be given to candidates who possess experience in the following fields: applied instrumentation development and use for trace environmental atmospheric monitoring for air toxics; statistical analysis and interpretation of data, programming skills in automation and remote operations, research and evaluation of emerging sampling technologies.

Duties Description The Bureau of Air Quality Surveillance (BAQS), Laboratory Services Section is responsible for researching and implementing sampling /analysis methodologies for identifying harmful chemicals in the ambient air. This includes analyzing and managing data from many different sources and instruments such that proper interpretation can be made. Data must undergo vigorous quality assurance review prior to being reported to the national EPA Air Quality System database. In addition to performing in-house analysis of ambient air samples for the national and state toxics networks, the section is responsible for researching new instrumentation for air monitoring and developing sampling and analysis methodologies for future needs. Of particular interest for this position is that the incumbent will be closely involved with the design, set up, use, and maintenance of remote monitoring stations including evaluation of data from same to ensure high quality data is produced.

Under the technical and administrative supervision of the Section Chief, the Research Scientist I will be responsible for the following activities:

• With guidance from senior laboratory personnel the incumbent will assume principal responsibility for the operation and maintenance of state-of-the-art analytical systems for non-routine analysis of contaminants in the ambient air in support of community investigations and citizen science. This will entail potentially groundbreaking research and development work to select and implement proper methodologies for sampling and analysis of various classes of chemicals unique to each situation. Major components of this task will include operation and maintenance of Photochemical Assessment and Monitoring (PAMS) sites and other special studies sites located in NYS. Extensive travel will be required, including overnight or longer stays as necessary to complete site upgrades and maintenance. Additionally, the incumbent will be the lead technical contact to develop and site similar instrumentation to address health, environmental and citizen concerns. The incumbent will also be responsible for the preparation of all necessary quality system documents, such as Quality Assurance Project Plan and Standard Operating Procedures, for such projects.
• Obtain necessary laboratory training as available to serve as the backup analyst in VOC canister and carbonyl sorbent tube analyses for the National Air Toxics Trends Station (NATTS) and State toxics networks. Track historical levels for all compounds measured to produce trends and when appropriate, associate observation with implemented policies. Investigate anomalous results to determine source and origin. Prepare and submit progress reports for the NATTS grant.
• Provide input and technical support for the design and implementation of more localized community air screen projects. These are special studies that often arise due to citizen concerns. Verify and analyze resulting data including QA/QC measurements. Assist in the preparation of reports.
• Research and evaluate new air pollution measurement technologies. Keep up to date in the scientific literature on the latest methods development, particularly in the area of new pollutants of concern including Ethylene Oxide (EtO) and per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), as well as methods to incorporate automation and remote instrument operation. Where possible, collocate next generation product with existing equipment to evaluate accuracy and reliability. Assist in the documentation and publishing of findings that are useful to fellow professionals in the field.
• Coordinate and work with laboratory personnel as well as site operators to ensure sampling equipment, sample shipments, and supplies are properly maintained to meet data capture requirements.

Additional Comments Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position. Must be able to work in remote areas. Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions. Travel may be required. Overtime may be required. Overnight travel may be required. Must be able to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds. Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

Contact Information

Name Alan Ilagan

Telephone 518-402-9273

Fax 518-402-9038

Email Address PostingResponses@dec.ny.gov

Address

Street 625 Broadway

City Albany

State NY

Zip Code 12233

 

Notes on ApplyingPlease email/mail your resume to the above address. Be sure to include Posting #22-820 on your resume and application or it may not be accepted.