AIR QUALITY COMPLIANCE TECHNICIAN

Under direct supervision, performs paraprofessional work of air sampling operations for ambient monitoring, maintains inventory and databases, and assists with inspects of regulated minor source facilities. Assists in the enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations, codes, and ordinances regarding air quality and provides support to Polk County’s Air Quality Programs.  

1. Conducts basic inspections at minor and major source facilities to determine compliance with applicable permits, statutes, rules, and standards; reviews facility plans and specifications, previous inspection reports, operating records, and construction permits; observes the facility in operation; collects samples for quantitative and qualitative tests of identification and prevention of environmental pollution.
2. Attends source sampling or stack testing at facilities; observes and validates monitoring results of opacity, stack test plans, and stack test results at major sources
3. Responds to written or telephone requests from public or private entities or individuals for information or technical assistance on numerous air quality or related issues.
4. Investigate fugitive dust and open burning complaints; takes appropriate action, including issues Notices of Violations.
5. Reviews and issues operating and open burn permits.
6. Prepares reports and computer data files in formats suitable for transmittal to federal, state, and county databases.
7. Attends training sessions, workshops, conferences, meetings, classes, and/or seminars.
8. Operates and performs basic checks on various air sampling equipment utilizing various hand tools and equipment; visually observes the equipment; assists with cleaning, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining all equipment associated with data collection activities.
9. Follows Polk County Public Works Air Quality standard operating procedures (SOP).
10. Assists with the development and maintenance of the equipment inventories.
11. Performs related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations or environmental laws governing air quality control.
• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of air monitoring equipment.
• Knowledge of quality control, inspection techniques, and reporting requirements.
• Knowledge of chemicals, their environmental interactions, persistence, and toxic and hazardous properties. 
• Knowledge of the methods, procedures, and purposes for environmental investigation and analysis. 
• Ability to gather data, prepare reports, and maintain databases.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, representatives from other public agencies, other County employees, and the public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Ability to utilize the capabilities of personal computers and applications. 
• Ability to climb ladders while carrying test equipment.
• Ability to apply basic knowledge of scientific principles to specific environmental problems.
• Ability to lift, carry, push and/or pull up to 45 lbs. 

• Associate’s Degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, Community or Environmental Health, Statistics, Physics, or related, and
• Two years of experience in an environmental program in the area of air quality, health, environmental science, or other closely related field, or
• Any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements: 

• EPA Method 9 certification and completion of Air Pollution Training Institute Learning Management System level 100-200 courses is required within six months of hire. 
• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position. 
• A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required. 
• A criminal background check is required. 
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

 

Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions. 

Salary : $67,272