Data Scientist; Air Quality Permitting

Data Scientist; Air Quality Permitting

Location: Remote (CA preferred)
Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 annually (negotiable based on experience)

Spheros Environmental is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Air Quality Permitting Scientist to oversee and manage air permitting strategies and compliance efforts. This role will lead complex permitting projects, guide regulatory strategy, and serve as a key liaison between clients, internal teams, and regulatory agencies. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in air quality regulations and a strong track record of successfully navigating permitting processes.

Key Responsibilities:

 

Technical Delivery

• Lead the preparation and management of air permit applications and technical analyses to support air quality planning and compliance, including New Source Review (NSR), Title V (Prevention of Significant Deterioration/PSD), minor source permits, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
• Develop permitting strategies to support project development and operational compliance, including control technology evaluations and mitigation measures
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local air quality regulations
• Serve as the primary point of contact with regulatory agencies and stakeholders
• Oversee emissions calculations, regulatory analyses, and technical documentation
• Review and ensure quality of permit applications, compliance reports, and supporting materials
• Provide guidance on compliance requirements, inspections, and enforcement matters
• Mentor junior staff and project teams
• Stay current on regulatory changes and emerging policy trends impacting air permitting 

Client Engagement and New Business Development

• 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 modeling capabilities.

• 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.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local air regulations with emphasis on the Clean Air Act, including NSR/PSD, National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), and Title V Permitting.
• Prior experience managing permitting projects, including review of facility process flows and equipment.
• Experience with criteria pollutant and GHG emissions inventories, annual emissions reporting, and data analysis, and proficiency in emissions models and calculations.
• Proficiency in air quality dispersion models (e.g., AERMOD), regulatory analysis methods, and emission control technology evaluations such as best available control technology (BACT)
• Familiarity and comfort with managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment through excellent organizational, time management, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel in support of project and business development activities.

• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Salary range of $100,000 - $130,000, 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.