Senior Scientist; Air Quality Analysis
Location: Remote (CA preferred)
Compensation: $130,000 - $150,000 annually (negotiable based on experience)
Spheros Environmental is looking for a technically trained and mission-driven Senior Scientist to lead our government- and community-focused air quality initiatives. This role combines advanced air quality analysis with stakeholder engagement to ensure that monitoring programs meet regulatory standards and empower local communities with accessible data. The ideal candidate will advance our clients’ air quality monitoring and outreach goals while maintaining regulatory compliance. As a senior leader, you will oversee complex projects, mentor junior staff, and provide strategic direction for state/local government and community programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Leadership
- Lead the design and execution of air quality monitoring and analysis programs, including fixed and mobile sensor networks.
- Oversee data quality control, analysis, and interpretation to assess potential environmental and public health impacts.
- Develop and implement community-based monitoring strategies, including partnerships with local organizations and residents.
- Translate complex air quality data into clear, accessible insights for non-technical audiences.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local air quality regulations and standards.
- Engage with community stakeholders and public agencies to build trust and collaboration.
- Integrate emerging technologies (low-cost sensors, real-time dashboards, GIS tools) into monitoring programs.
- Lead reporting efforts including technical documents, public-facing summaries, and presentations.
Client Engagement and New Business Development
- Develop business, write proposals, and deepen client relations.
- Identify new business opportunities and partnerships in air quality data analytics, air quality/smoke monitoring, and climate services.
- Lead or support proposal writing, scoping, and development of technical approaches for competitive bids and client proposals.
- Represent our company at conferences, client meetings, and industry events.
- Build long-term client relationships by understanding market needs and aligning them with our air quality measurements and modeling capabilities.
Project Management
- Manage complex, multi-stakeholder air monitoring and data analysis projects from proposal through delivery.
- Coordinate with internal teams (e.g., air quality modeling, GIS, climate science, litigation services, etc.) to integrate air quality monitoring results into broader resilience solutions.
- Communicate results through clear technical reports, visualizations, dashboards, and presentations.
Staff Management
- Supervise and mentor a multidisciplinary team of scientists, analysts, and outreach specialists.
- Champion company policies and procedures, providing education and/or corrective action to direct reports as needed. Share ideas/suggestions for enhancing processes and procedures.
- Foster and embrace a people-focused, high-performance culture that is aligned with our company's purpose and vision.
- Monitor group performance, providing additional support to staff as needed.
Qualifications:
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Experience/Education: At least 12 years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience (e.g. BS + 8 years, MS + 7 years, PhD + 6 years) in Environmental Science, Atmospheric Science, Engineering, Public Health, or a related field.
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In-depth understanding of air quality regulations, permitting, and community considerations, with prior experience designing or managing community or participatory monitoring programs
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Demonstrated proficiency in statistical analysis, data visualization techniques, programming, and data science skills (e.g., Python, R, GIS, cloud-based workflows). Familiarity with low-cost air sensors and calibration/validation techniques is preferred.
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Proven experience managing projects, interacting with clients, and developing business. Experience in a leadership or senior management role is highly preferred.
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Experience working with federal/state/tribal agencies (e.g., EPA, CARB) and private-sector risk groups.
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Comfortable and familiar managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment through excellent organizational, time management, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.
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Willingness to travel in support of project and business development activities.
Why Spheros Environmental?
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Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Salary range of $130,000 - $150,000, with opportunities for bonuses and 401(k) contributions.
- Professional Growth: Ongoing training, conference opportunities, and pathways to leadership and ownership roles.
- Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work options and flexible remote work opportunities in approved states.
- Inclusive Culture: We are an equal opportunity employer that fosters a diverse and supportive work environment.
- Opportunities to provide clients with services from all of Spheros Environmental practice areas.
Apply today! Spheros Environmental is an equal-opportunity employer.