Environmental Conservation, Department of
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. The position requires strong written and verbal
communication skills. A Master of Science or higher degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health,
Atmospheric Science or related field is preferred. Area of Specialty is Air Pollution. Preference will be given to candidates who possess experience in the following fields: environmental chemistry, toxicology, risk communication, statistical analysis and interpretation of data, ambient air quality measurements, and air quality modeling
Duties Description
Under the general direction and supervision of a Research Scientist IV, the Research Scientist I will apply knowledge and expertise in air pollution to research, evaluate and implement potential solutions for air quality issues. The Division relies heavily on the expertise of the Air Toxic Section staff to provide technical support for NYSDEC’s nine regional offices. Support includes
but is not limited to the implementation of 6NYCRR Part 212 for process operations subject to this regulation, conducting air quality trend analyses, and assessment of scientific information on
the toxicity and potential exposure to air contaminants. The incumbent will prepare well researched technical memoranda and reports that will be used for regulatory decision making by
Department management and support the Division’s role in the implementation of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
The incumbent will work in coordination with other Research Scientists in the Section on the
following multi-disciplinary tasks:
% Time Specific Task
25% The Air Toxics Section provides technical support to regional permitting staff on the implementation 6NYCRR Part 212 and the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP). The incumbent would review and evaluate for accuracy permit applications and verify that the air toxic emissions provided have been based on current and scientifically acceptable information. Additionally, the incumbent would evaluate the
accuracy of risk assessments submitted. Theses evaluations may include development of health-based guideline concentrations for new toxic chemicals, including trade secret chemicals, which require research and development of defensible documentation. For highly toxic air pollutants, the incumbent will research the state-of-the science on measurement technologies, appropriate control technologies and regulations developed by
other governmental agencies.
25% Work with program staff to interpret and assess public health relevance of air toxics data from the network and community monitoring sites utilizing statistical programs and data management tools such as SAS and/or R. Assist in the preparation of technical reports and manuscripts on research findings.
15% Provide technical support for air dispersion modeling for regional staff and the public.
15% Work with regional staff answering questions on hazard identification and exposure assessment of toxic air contaminants.
10% Keep abreast of scientific literature for emerging chemical compounds, such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
5% Maintain the chemical identification requirements of program’s Air Facility System (AFS) Table Maintenance System.
5% Attend trainings offered by the Department, Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM) and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Actively participate in professional workshops and conferences.
Additional Comments
Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position. Travel may be required. Overnight travel may be required. Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.