Air Quality Engineer Senior

Air Quality Engineer Senior

Salary

$85,030.40 - $103,355.20 Annually

Location

Lake County, CA

Job Type

Full Time - Open to all applicants

Job Number

26-115

Department

Air Quality Management District

Opening Date

09/24/2026

Closing Date

10/14/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

FLSA

Non-Exempt

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Details

Under general direction, plans, organizes, and implements a variety of complex air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects; enforces state, federal, and local laws, ordinances, and programs regarding regulated sources, emissions testing, and ambient air monitoring; develops and implements air quality ordinances and policies; performs special assignments as directed from the Air Pollution Control Officer; and performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Licensing and Certifications:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.
• Possession of a valid Visible Emission Evaluator Certification as issued by the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid NESHAPS Inspector Training Certificate within 6 (six) months of months from date of appointment.
• Possession of, or ability to complete Advanced Enforcement Training through the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of HARP2 training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Gasoline Dispensing Facility Training (Pre-EVR, EVR, ISD, and AST) within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Source Testing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Aggregate Processing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Asphalt Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Concrete Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of PERP Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of CEMS (Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems) Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Variance/Hearing Board Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Advanced Risk Communication and Media Skills Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in physics, chemistry, engineering, environmental air quality engineering, physical science.

AND

Five (5) years of full-time experience performing professional air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects, enforcement work and source testing duties comparable to that of an Air Quality Engineer II with the Lake County Air Quality Management District.

A master's degree in physical science may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. Additional directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.

AIR QUALITY ENGINEER, SENIOR

DEFINITION

Under general direction, plans, organizes, and implements a variety of complex air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects; enforces state, federal, and local laws, ordinances, and programs regarding regulated sources, emissions testing, and ambient air monitoring; develops and implements air quality ordinances and policies; performs special assignments as directed from the Air Pollution Control Officer; and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced level classification in the professional Air Quality Engineer series. Incumbents plan, perform, and coordinate a variety of the most complex air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects, operation and enforcement work, source testing and related Lake County Air Quality Management District practices and procedures. Incumbents have a greater degree of independence, may work with less instruction and supervision and may provide lead direction to staff.

This class is distinguished from the Air Quality Engineer II classification in that the incumbents work in greater independence and perform the broader range of complex air quality duties that require high level expertise, substantial knowledge and background in air quality monitoring, enforcement and source testing.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general direction from assigned supervisory staff, depending on areas of work assignments. Exercises no direct supervision over staff. Provides lead direction, work coordination and training as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the scope of duties performed by employees in this class and are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

• Processing permits for geothermal wells, power plants, accessory equipment, and other industries.

• Reviews permit and enforcement files to prepare materials and responses for variance requests, violation notices and case summaries and Hearing Board referrals.

• Interprets and evaluates toxic risk assessments submitted by permit applicants.

• Oversees and performs technical and regulatory reviews and impact analyses for the issue of source permits.

• Coordinates toxic risk screening and risk assessment analysis. Calculates toxic emissions, determines and applies appropriate air dispersion models, calculates maximum concentrations and calculates risk. Evaluates and recommends approval or denial of permit applications.

• Evaluate proposed burns and emission releases for impacts on air quality, approving or denying requested activities.

• Collects, analyzes, and interprets meteorological data to evaluate impacts, source locations, burn day status and modeling inputs.

• Coordinates and performs on-site compliance inspections of sources and abatement devices, evaluates compliance and recommends enforcement actions.

• Responds to public complaints and prepares reports, ensuring the proper compliance of permitted sources.

• Develops and recommends revisions and new Lake County Air Quality Management District procedures and regulations based on need or changes to State or Federal programs.

• Conducts air pollution dispersion modeling, providing detailed source inventories planning, organizing, and carrying out more complex enforcement activities, program implementation, emissions testing, and ambient air monitoring.

• Maintains current knowledge of legislation, practices, and case decisions regarding air quality and enforcement. Plans for and develops recommendations for Lake County Air Quality Management District regulations, policies, and programs.

• Reviews, evaluates, summarizes, and records data collected electronically or manually from scientific/analytical instrumentation in compliance with Lake County Air Quality Management District, State, and Federal standards.

• Participates in calculating, reviewing, correcting, and documenting the emissions inventory, evaluates accuracy of source emissions calculations and methodologies.

• Prepares and updates the emissions inventory and other aspects of State and Federal air quality plans including developing the required programs, structuring data, and preparing long-range emissions forecasts.

• Performs a variety of first line field enforcement and measurement functions.

• Assists with establishing and implementing Lake County Air Quality Management District (AQMD) fees.

• Selects locations and methods for routine and special purpose monitoring.

• Represents the Lake County Air Quality Management District as technical expert in meetings with outside agencies, environmental groups, and industry personnel regarding air quality regulations, and source inventory procedures and results, and may act as an expert witness before the Hearing Board.

• Assists with and participates in joint activities with other agencies.

• Administers grants and subvention funding to maintain and enhance air quality programs and activities, as delegated.

• May provide lead direction, training, and work review of Air Quality Engineers and support staff on routine, continuing, or well-defined tasks and priorities to ensure timely completion.

• Coordinates and reviews the work of Air Quality Engineers and support staff involved in complex, sensitive, or controversial engineering projects, studies, and audits.

• Plans and allocates resources to complete assigned projects.

• Setup, calibrate, operate, and make minor repairs and adjustments to a variety of complex laboratory and air monitoring instruments and equipment.

• Plans and reviews source tests, process reviews, and instrument measurements.

• Performs acceptance testing of new and repaired scientific/analytical instrumentation.

• Troubleshoots and repairs instrumentation problems to the component level. Coordinates repairs and installation of equipment and instruments with vendors.

• Conducts quality assessment functions on air monitoring and source testing equipment by means of performing evaluations using gaseous and other calibrated standards. Oversees instrument performance evaluations.

• Assists with the selection of computer and automation equipment and software to ensure proper performance of air quality functions.

• Uses a variety of software and programs to make engineering calculations, enter and retrieve data and to monitor and correct data entry. Writes and revises computer programs. Investigates and corrects errors.

• Develops, assesses, and implements methodologies for instrument and chemical analyses.

• Monitors air quality incentive programs with state funding and submits required reports to the state.

• Coordinates organization and analyses of data for submission to other agencies.

• May manage contracts with vendors and consultants.

• Participates in technical conferences and training sessions.

• Prepare technical publications and presentations for public and professional organizations.

• Frequently travels to various off-site locations to conduct site inspections and install air monitors.

• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, and methods of emission measurement, source identification, and analysis, including the design, construction, and maintenance of emission control systems.
• State, federal, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances related to the functions and operations of the Lake County Air Quality Management District, air quality measurement, emissions inventory, and emission control programs.
• Principles and methods of physics, meteorology, and chemistry especially as applied to air quality monitoring and process emission control.
• Air pollution analysis techniques and control methodologies and equipment.
• Industrial processes, pollution control equipment and chemical processes and equipment.
• Engineering principles (civil, mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineering) related to materials, stress analysis, statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, circuits, fluids to prescribe specifications, development of procedures, and evaluation of new technologies.
• Grant development and administration.
• Proper inspection and permit issuance methods and procedures, and the preparation of reports and testimony for legal proceedings.
• Scientific research methods to reach sound and defensible conclusions.
• Statistical analysis methods to develop reports and/or analyze research data.
• Principles of project planning, development, coordination, and direction.
• Proper English spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Written and oral communications skills.
• Computer systems, numerical models, and software applicable to air quality monitoring, inventory dispersion assessment, emission control, and Lake County Air Quality Management District management and administration.
• Computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software applications) to conduct research, assess information, and/or prepare documentation. (Claris FileMaker Pro, Adobe Acrobat, HARP, and CALEEMOD experience are preferrable)

Ability to:

• Plan, organize, and implement a wide scope of complex air pollution control and emission monitoring projects and enforcement work.
• Examine data for anomalies, patterns, and/or other irregularities to assess for trends and potential issues.
• Analyze complex engineering data and reports, evaluate alternatives, and reach sound conclusions.
• Conduct a variety of air quality engineering studies.
• Perform standard physical, chemical, and other tests using a variety of analytical instruments and computers.
• Develop and recommend environmental mitigation for projects.
• Apply meteorological and air quality principles and theories. Prepare and analyze metrological and air quality data and predict accurate forecasts.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent local, state, and federal laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Research and apply new air quality regulations and procedures.
• Oversee and perform the gathering and maintenance of information regarding air quality, emission monitoring, and enforcement activities.
• Climb high structures, work in high temperatures and noise levels, and lift heavy test equipment.
• Direct the preparation of and prepare clear, concise reports.
• Make effective oral and written presentations, including the Board of Directors, state and federal agencies, and committees.
• Effectively represent the Lake County Air Quality Management District with the public, community organizations, boards, commissions, and other government agencies.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Licensing and Certifications:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.
• Possession of a valid Visible Emission Evaluator Certification as issued by the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid NESHAPS Inspector Training Certificate within 6 (six) months of months from date of appointment.
• Possession of, or ability to complete Advanced Enforcement Training through the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of HARP2 training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Gasoline Dispensing Facility Training (Pre-EVR, EVR, ISD, and AST) within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Source Testing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Aggregate Processing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Asphalt Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Concrete Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of PERP Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of CEMS (Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems) Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Variance/Hearing Board Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.
• Completion of Advanced Risk Communication and Media Skills Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in physics, chemistry, engineering, environmental air quality engineering, physical science.

AND

Five (5) years of full-time experience performing professional air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects, enforcement work and source testing duties comparable to that of an Air Quality Engineer II with the Lake County Air Quality Management District.

A master's degree in physical science may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. Additional directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.

WORKING CONDITIONS, ADA, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

The County of Lake is an equal opportunity employer and will comply with its obligations under the law to provide equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Incumbents generally work in the field and in an office environment with adequate light and temperature. There is exposure to extreme temperatures, loud noise, fumes, noxious odors, dust, mist, gases, and poor ventilation; walking on uneven ground, underground, confined, or restricted workspaces; and heights more than five stories above ground level. Incumbents may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Positions in this class typically require: sitting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking on uneven ground, hiking, climbing, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.

Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Light Work: Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for light work.

Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Positions in this class may require local and statewide travel as necessary.

A successful candidate will be required to submit to and pass a background check prior to the appointment. Depending upon the position and/or assigned department, the background check may include but is not limited to civil and criminal history check, reference check, Live Scan, and/or credit check (as allowed under state law).

Disaster Service Workers: As members of the County of Lake Emergency Services Organization, all Lake County employees are designated as Disaster Service Workers during a proclaimed emergency and may be required to perform certain emergency services at the direction of the department and / or County.

The contents of this class specification shall not be construed to constitute any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee, nor shall it constitute a contract of employment. The County of Lake assumes no responsibility beyond the general accuracy of the document, nor does it assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information contained herein. The contents of this specification may be modified or revoked without notice. Terms and conditions of employment are determined through a "meet and confer" process and are subject to the Memorandum of Understanding currently in effect.

RETIREMENT - County employees are members of the California Public Employee Retirement system (CalPERS). CalPERS provides a defined benefit pension at retirement for County employees. The pension formulas and employee contribution amounts may vary by bargaining unit, date of hire, prior qualifying service, and classification. Please contact Human Resources for more information.

HEALTH AND INSURANCE BENEFITS - Medical, dental, hospital, vision, life and disability coverage is available to employees and their dependents. The County contributes $1,500 of the monthly premiums for the insurance plan options.

VACATION ACCRUAL may be adjusted for current city or county government employees.

VACATION - 80 hours per year during the first five years of service, 120 hours per year after five years, and additional accruals based on years of service beyond fifteen years. Pro-rated for part-time employees.

SICK LEAVE - Accrues at a rate of 96 hours per year. Pro-rated for part-time employees.

HOLIDAYS- An average of twelve paid 8-hour holidays per year. Pro-rated for part-time employees.

SALARY - Lake County has an adopted salary schedule. The salary range for most classifications is in five increments with a provision for longevity increases. Appointments are normally made at the first step of the salary range.

SOCIAL SECURITY - County employees participate in Social Security.

CALIFORNIA STATE DISABILITY INSURANCE - SDI is available to some County employees.

DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS and CREDIT UNION MEMBERSHIPS are available to County employees.

01

Do you have a bachelors degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in physics, chemistry, engineering, environmental air quality engineering, physical science?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have five (5) years of full-time experience performing professional air quality and emission control monitoring and analysis projects, enforcement work and source testing duties comparable to that of an Air Quality Engineer II with the Lake County Air Quality Management District?

• Yes
• No

03

Are you in possession of a valid Visible Emission Evaluator Certification as issued by the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA?

• Yes
• No

04

Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain a valid NESHAPS Inspector Training Certificate within 6 (six) months of months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

05

Are you in possession of, or ability to complete Advanced Enforcement Training through the California Air Resources Board and Federal EPA within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

06

Are you able to complete the HARP2 training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

07

Can you complete the Gasoline Dispensing Facility Training (Pre-EVR, EVR, ISD, and AST) within twelve (12) months of your appointment date?

• Yes
• No

08

Can you complete the Source Testing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

09

Can you complete Aggregate Processing Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

10

Are you able to complete the Asphalt Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you able to complete the Concrete Bath Plant Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you able to complete the PERP Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able to complete the CEMS (Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems) Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able to complete the Variance/Hearing Board Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

15

Are you able to complete the Advanced Risk Communication and Media Skills Training within twelve (12) months from date of appointment?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer County of Lake

Address 255 N. Forbes Street

Lakeport, California, 95453

Phone 707-263-2213

Website https://www.lakecountyca.gov/452/Human-Resources