Research Scientist 1 (Air Pollution)

Description

Duties Description

This position is located within the Division of Air Resources, Bureau of Air Quality Surveillance. The Research Scientist 1 will report to a Research Scientist 2 and function as part of the Monitoring Support Section, which is responsible for managing monitoring data and documentation for the NATTS program. The incumbent will serve as the primary data lead and technical coordinator for the NATTS program, supporting the Bureau’s mission to provide high-quality, scientifically defensible air toxics data for State and federal use.

Applied Research, Data Management, and Data Analysis

• Perform applied research and scientific analysis of ambient air toxics data, primarily volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbonyls, collected under the NATTS program.
• Conduct data verification and statistical review to ensure results meet EPA-defined quality standards.
• Analyze trends, data completeness, and detection patterns to support long-term toxics assessments and network planning.
• Manage data entry, verification, and submission to EPA’s Air Quality System (AQS).
• Identify and interpret anomalies, coordinate follow-up investigations, and document corrective actions.
  
  

Technical Program Coordination and Documentation

• Serve as the technical point of contact for NATTS data, supporting communication between laboratory staff, field staff, and QA personnel.
• Track instrument documentation sample collection schedules to ensure program continuity.
• Coordinate implementation of new or revised EPA methods (e.g., TO-15a, TO-11a) and ensure program-level alignment.
• Evaluate and document QA/QC data such as blank samples, recoveries, calibrations, and precision / accuracy metrics.
• Maintain and support updates to Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs), SOPs, and data review protocols.
• Coordinate internal reviews and contribute to audit readiness by ensuring all procedures and data products are fully documented.
  
  

Reporting and Regulatory Support

• Prepare quarterly and annual data verification reports and other technical summaries required for EPA network reviews and reporting cycles.
• Assist with special studies, grant reporting, and data calls involving air toxics, exceptional events, or community monitoring.
• Document and archive datasets, methods, and decisions to ensure transparency and continuity.
  
  

External Representation and Program Development

• Represent the agency at technical workgroups, trainings, and interagency meetings.
• Monitor EPA guidance and national best practices to advise on enhancements to DEC’s NATTS implementation.
• Contribute to scientific presentations, briefings, and publications related to air toxics monitoring and data quality.
  
  

Minimum & Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree and two years of professional research experience in chemistry, environmental science, atmospheric science, or a related field. A Master of Science or higher degree in chemistry, environmental science, atmospheric science, or a related field is preferred. The position requires strong written and verbal communication skills.

Substitution options: A master’s degree in the appropriate fields described above may substitute for one year of experience, and 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 who possess experience in the following fields: VOC Data analysis, the National Air Toxics Trends Station (NATTS) Program.

Preferred Additional Qualifications

• Experience with air quality monitoring data, particularly VOCs and carbonyls.
• Familiarity with EPA methods TO-15, TO-15a, TO-11a, and the AQS system.
• Demonstrated experience in data analysis, QA/QC processes, and scientific reporting.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Experience with R, Excel, VBA, Python, and SharePoint strongly preferred.
  
  

Additional Comments

• Occasional travel may be required.
• Experience working with EPA air toxics methods and the Air Quality System (AQS) is strongly preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and data analysis skills are required.
  
  

Essential Functions

• 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

If applying, please include a current resume and copy of your qualifying transcripts w/degree conferral date(s).

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.