Air Quality Monitoring Specialist

Air Quality Monitoring Specialist 1 or 2

Location:

509 S. East Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33756

Work Schedule:

6:30 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m.; 4 days a week.

Pinellas County Government is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Environmental Specialist 1 or 2 to conduct ambient air quality monitoring work in compliance with Federal and State air quality regulations. This professional, technical position involves operating highly specialized equipment to collect air pollution data in our community. Specifically, we monitor for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated air pollutants including ground‑level ozone, particulate matter, and air toxics.

The role requires strict adherence to standard operating procedures and a strong attention to detail while operating the ambient air quality monitoring equipment. The position balances both field and office duties daily. The data generated is utilized by regulatory decision‑makers and research scientists with the goal of protecting our health and the environment.

• Independent operation of ambient air monitoring equipment, including calibrations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
• Perform associated data entry into various Microsoft products and internal databases.
• Conduct routine quality control (QC) checks on continuous (operating 24/7) analytical instrumentation.
• Field sample collection activities for non‑continuous monitoring networks.
• Collaborate with external agencies during formal audits of our air quality programs.
• Read, interpret, and apply complex technical language contained in reference documents and standard operating procedures.
• Generate high‑quality environmental data used by the public, state/federal regulators, stakeholders, and decision makers.

Experience: Professional level experience in the assigned field of environmental programs.

Degree: Major coursework in environmental, physical, natural or biological science, engineering, or related field.

Salary Range: $22.01 - $28.61 per hour.

• At least five (5) years of experience as described above.
• Associate’s degree as described above, and at least three (3) years of experience as described above.
• Bachelor’s degree as described above, and at least one (1) year of experience as described above.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.

Salary Range: $25.12 - $32.65 per hour.

• At least six (6) years of experience as described above.
• Associate’s degree as described above, and at least four (4) years of experience as described above.
• Bachelor’s degree as described above, and at least two (2) years of experience as described above.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.

• A Florida driver’s license (Florida Driver’s License or Florida Commercial Driver’s License with endorsement).
• Assignment to work a variety of work schedules, including mandatory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.

• Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Ability to operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on sensitive environmental or analytical monitoring equipment.
• Scientific Sampling & Reporting: Knowledge of scientific and field sampling techniques, including collecting high‑quality data and preparing basic environmental reports.
• Troubleshooting & Diagnostics: Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues involving instrumentation, pneumatics, mechanical systems, electronics, software, and network components.
• Technical Comprehension: Ability to read, understand, and apply technical, scientific, and mathematical information from manuals, SOPs, and reference materials.

• Knowledge of mathematics and natural, physical, and biological sciences and computer technology.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of environmental management.
• Knowledge of scientific research and writing techniques, including the use of automated systems for statistical analysis of research data.
• Ability to present ideas and findings clearly and concisely in written, oral, and graphic form.
• Knowledge of national, state, and local environmentally related laws, ordinances, codes, and regulations.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and recognized safety procedures and practices for field work.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow workers, outside agencies, and the public.

• Retirement benefits through the Florida Retirement System (FRS) with investment and pension options.
• Deferred compensation programs and wellness centers.