Aviation Policy and Modeling Specialist

Are you interested in working in a dynamic environment that combines policy and technical expertise to shape California’s air quality and climate change strategies for aviation? The Aviation Technology and Modeling Section (ATMS), part of the Mobile Source Analysis Branch (MSAB) in the Air Quality Planning and Science Division, is recruiting an Air Resources Engineer. ATMS leads the development of California's Statewide Clean Aviation Initiative (SCAI), which focuses on creating regulatory, incentive, and voluntary programs aimed at reducing emissions from aviation activities. ATMS also leads the efforts of performing research and technology evaluations to keep the agency informed about latest technology advancement in the aviation sector that can help reduce emissions. In addition to aviation work, ATMS contributes to the development of California's on-road emissions inventory (EMFAC) by renovating the vehicle population and activity forecasting models. The section is also responsible for development of the community-level emissions inventory, as an extension of EMFAC.

What you will do:

Under the supervision of an Air Resources Supervisor I, the successful candidate will design policies and strategies that can reduce emissions from aircraft and airport operations. Example tasks include engagement with outside stakeholders (e.g., industry groups, sister government agencies, community members), evaluating technology readiness level, performing policy analysis and evaluation, partnering with other CARB teams on incentive and pilot project programs, supporting cost analysis and emissions inventory development. The incumbent will also prepare technical reports, fact sheets, memoranda, and presentations for management or outside stakeholders. These efforts will require creative and forward thinking to assess technology developments within the aviation sector, forecast program outcomes, and develop policy recommendations on how to shape policies/programs to achieve meaningful emissions reductions.

If you are passionate about shaping a cleaner aviation future for California and have experience in strategic analysis—or are eager to learn—we encourage you to apply!

CARB offers various modern interview options including remote phone and video interviews.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Working Conditions

This position may be eligible for hybrid in-office work and in-state telework. The amount of telework is at the agency's discretion and is based on the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) current telework policy. While the CARB may support telework, some in-person attendance is also required.

The positions at the CARB may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position under Government Code 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California, subject to the candidate meeting telework eligibility criteria outlined in the CalEPA telework policy and/or future program need. Employees not residing in California are not eligible for telework. Regardless of hybrid telework eligibility, all employees may be required to report to the position’s designated headquarters location at their own expense, as indicated on their duty statement.

Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee shall receive a 3 percent reduction in pay in exchange for 5 hours PLP 2025 leave credits, monthly. The salary range(s) included in the job advertisement do not reflect the 3 percent reduction in pay.

• Position located in a high-rise building.
• Requires being stationary, consistent with office work, for extended periods.
• Standard office environment (artificial lighting, controlled temperature, etc.).  
• Daily use of a personal computer, office equipment, and/or telephone.
• Travel may be required.