The Emissions Certification and Compliance Division is recruiting for a Staff Air Pollution Specialist vacancy in the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Branch, which implements OBD system requirements for all new light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty on-road vehicles along with off-road diesel engines. OBD systems monitor vehicle emission control systems for proper performance and are required to detect malfunctions that occur, alert the vehicle operator, and store fault information to assist technicians in fixing the problem. OBD systems are a critical element to an effective Smog Check program in California and inspection and maintenance programs across the nation. Similarly, OBD systems on heavy-duty vehicles will provide the basis for effective inspections and repairs on today’s lower emission heavy-duty vehicles. The California Air Resources Board’s OBD program is the benchmark for the federal diagnostics program and diagnostic programs worldwide. The activities of the OBD program involve detailed understanding and analyses of current and future technology vehicles to ensure comprehensive monitoring; as such, the OBD program is evolving to ensure OBD systems keep pace as vehicle technologies change to meet the increasing challenges to achieve lower emissions and higher efficiencies. Under the direction of the Section Manager, in the On-Board Diagnostic Program Development Section, the SAPS will be an independent specialist for the activities of the OBD Program Development Section, which has primary responsibility for developing light and heavy-duty OBD regulations, off-road OBD regulations, and guidance documents. The section is also responsible for coordination with internal and external stakeholders on OBD program integration and regulatory development, consultation on OBD certification and enforcement issues, and participation in other OBD program-related activities (e.g., liaison to OBD standards committees, incorporation of OBD features in other CARB mobile source programs such as the Innovative Technologies Regulation and Aftermarket Parts Regulation, and OBD program training). The successful candidate will lead the work of professional engineering and technical staff performing the duties assigned to the section related to the program areas discussed above.The ideal candidate will possess the technical background to understand and lead the development of regulatory requirements and the evaluation of existing and emerging powertrain, emission control system, and diagnostic system technologies along with strong written and verbal communication skills. Work experience with OBD system design, regulatory development, engineering cost analysis, automotive inspection and maintenance programs, certification and enforcement is highly preferred. Experience with automotive diagnostic systems, automotive emission control systems, automotive powertrains, automotive emission testing, and vehicle calibrations is preferred. The most competitive candidate will also be highly motivated and enthusiastic, will have a demonstrated ability to be a self-starter, work independently and lead others in an organized and thorough manner with attention to detail, and will possess the ability to use tact and good judgement to interact effectively with people at all levels of technical staff, management, government and industry. Project management skills are essential such that the candidate can be given a complex project and plan and lead staff and resources to get it done under tight deadlines. The successful candidate may be called upon to serve as a lead staff person for work groups and technical meetings, and to engage in outreach events with industry, environmental groups, government organizations, and the public. The candidate must have the ability to lead staff to collect and analyze data, develop solutions, and present information effectively both orally and in writing. Applicants will be screened and only the most qualified individuals will be interviewed.

Applying electronically via CalCareers is highly recommended. If submitting hardcopy applications (mail/drop-off), please email Essam.Gad@arb.ca.gov to confirm submission.

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.

• 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.
• Will involve some work near machinery, motor vehicles or engines.

• Some travel will be required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $10,015.00 - $12,538.00 per month

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Riverside, CA 92507