Environmental Quality Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for two Air Quality Monitoring Coordinators to join the Air Research and Monitoring Section at DEQ! Our team installs, operates, and maintains Montana's statewide ambient air monitoring network. The data we collect are used to:

1.       Provide air pollution data to the general public in a timely manner.

2.       Support compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).

3.       Support air pollution research studies.

Monitoring data provides the scientific foundation for understanding air quality conditions and trends, informing regulatory and management decisions, and protecting public health. These positions support DEQ's statewide particulate matter (PM) monitoring network, which includes approximately twenty monitoring sites across Montana. Some sites also include advanced instrumentation for measuring gaseous pollutants and meteorological conditions. Data from the network are reported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and shared with partners and the public through DEQ's Today's Air website and EPA's AirNow website.

Coordinators balance independent fieldwork with technical and analytical office work. Responsibilities include:

-        Installing and operating ambient air monitoring equipment.

-        Performing routine quality assurance and quality control checks, calibrations, and preventative maintenance.

-        Troubleshooting, repairing, and testing scientific instrumentation.

-        Managing equipment communications, telemetry, and data systems.

-        Reviewing, analyzing, and quality-assuring air monitoring data.

-        Maintaining monitoring sites and supporting network logistics.

-        Contributing to research, public outreach, network planning, and other Air Research and Monitoring Section projects.

-        Collaborative work across the Air Quality Bureau sections.

After completing training, coordinators travel independently throughout Montana to perform quality control checks, maintenance, and troubleshooting at monitoring sites. Travel may account for up to 25% of work time and includes driving and working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Field work requires working independently, climbing ladders, and lifting and moving equipment such as monitoring instruments, window air conditioners, and 20-foot ladders. Coordinators also perform basic monitoring site maintenance as needed.

When not in the field, coordinators review and analyze monitoring data, perform quality assurance activities, troubleshoot and repair equipment, and support monitoring network operations and planning. Coordinators may also contribute to scientific research, public outreach and education, and DEQ's Today's Air website. They communicate technical air quality information to management, partner agencies, stakeholders, industry, and the public and may participate in the review and implementation of state and federal air quality requirements.

Ideal candidates will have a scientific or technical background and enjoy hands-on problem solving, data analysis, varied work, and be team oriented. This position offers a unique balance of independent fieldwork, technical work, and collaborative projects supporting air quality monitoring across Montana.

At the Department of Environmental Quality, our goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana. DEQ employees are the heart of our organization. We value the people and invest in their professional growth, promoting a culture of cross-agency collaboration as we find solutions to the environmental challenges we face. DEQ values - leadership, accountability, customer service, efficiency, excellence, and decision making - are fundamental to our work. Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality!

-    Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, biology, atmospheric science or physics, or a related field.

-    Preferred two years of job-related work experience in environmental sampling, environmental resource protection, compliance, or a scientific profession.

-    Current valid Driver's License and clean driving record in accordance with State of Montana Vehicle Use Policy.

-    Other combinations of education and experience may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Applications, including supplemental materials such as cover letter and resume, must be submitted through the State of Montana Careers site (https://statecareers.mt.gov/) by the closing date of the announcement. In your cover letter, describe how your education, knowledge, and skills have prepared you for this position.

The Air Quality Monitoring Coordinator position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression.

Effective February 23, 2026, this agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/.