Air Quality Specialist, (B252937-2), 208, Air Quality Monitoring Program

Under general supervision, performs the full range of air quality control duties with a high degree of independence. Investigates, monitors, analyzes existing and potential sources of air pollution, and performs related work as required.  Will be responsible for maintaining the City's ambient air monitoring network sensors, collect data and filters, and operate ambient air monitoring equipment.  This includes maintaining and calibrating air monitoring equipment when necessary, collecting air sampling data, analyzing data, and developing strategies to reduce the effects of air pollution.  The specialist would have excellent analytical skills and the ability to accurately interpret and report findings. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Collects and analyzes air samples for quality control 
• Records data on forms, logbooks, and on shared networks and maintains accurate records of air quality data and ensure data integrity
• Prepares air quality reports based on findings, trends, and potential public health impacts 
• Conducts quality assurance reviews of data and follows standard operating procedures and sampling protocols 
• Conducts regular safe operation, care, inspection, maintenance of ambient air monitors, sensors, and associated equipment 
• Conducts required calibrations, audits, and reporting 
• Troubleshoots and diagnoses malfunctioning or inoperable equipment 
• Performs housekeeping and basic site maintenance 
• Conducts assessments to identify sources of air pollution and recommend corrective actions for improving air quality
• Stays up to date with the latest developments in air quality regulations, monitoring, and mitigation strategies 
• Communicates air quality information to the public, government officials and stakeholders through reports, public meetings, and education materials
• Works with community and schools to promote air quality awareness and prevention strategies 
• Responds to public inquiries and concerns regarding outdoor air quality 
• Assists in securing grants and funding for air quality projects and initiatives
• Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

Skills and Abilities 

• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
• Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.

• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of this position

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Effort Requirements 
Position will have the following exposures

• Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards.  Occasional outside work.
• Exerting up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

Work Environment Locations 
Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments
 
 Never

• Confined space 
• Warehouse environment

 Seldom

• Construction site

 Frequently

• Office or similar indoor environment
• Street environment (near moving traffic)

 Often

• Outdoor environment
• Vehicles

Exposures 
Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements
 
Never

• Individuals with known violent backgrounds
• Moving mechanical parts
• Loud noises (85 decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)

Seldom

• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
• Communicable diseases
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances

Sometimes

• Individuals who are hostile or irate

Frequently

• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)

Often

• Fumes or airborne particles

Travel 
Position will require the employee to travel
 
Never

• International travel

Sometimes

• Regional travel
• National travel

Often

• Local travel
  

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited* college or university in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or Life Science related field 
• At least one (1) year of experience in environmental management program, air quality monitoring, environmental science, or a related field 

        *Council Education of Higher Accreditation (C.H.E.A.) 
 




Required Licenses or Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment. 

Continued employment is contingent on successfully obtaining required certification(s) and/or license(s) within the specified period of time indicated above from time of hire**

• National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) credential (Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian) must be obtained within 24 months of employment**
• Visual Emissions Evaluation Certification (Smoke School: Visible Emissions Evaluators) from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality TCEQ must be obtained within 24 months of employment**
• Certification, Registration, or License in a specialty area (e.g., 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Training) must be obtained within 24 months of employment**
• Attend 8- hour annual refresher courses must be obtained annually**

 
As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.
 


Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment.
 


Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition, shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
 


A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 791-7480 two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.
 

Salary : $50,274 - $62,858