Job Description

Job Description and Duties

Under the direction of the Unit’s Supervisor in the Statewide Technical and Analytical Resources Branch, the incumbent will work independently to perform difficult and complex scientific analyses related to CalRecycle’s initiatives on plastics and research of technologies that provide for the most efficient and effective management and reuse of materials. The incumbent is part of a plastics and biodegradable materials research team that utilizes knowledge of chemical and physical characteristics of polymers to identify, evaluate, and report policy options and implement programs that minimize potential impacts of plastic pollution to land and marine environments. The work includes expanding CalRecycle's activities to promote efficient and effective management and reuse of materials.

The incumbent will serve as a CalRecycle subject matter expert on plastic recycling issues by researching, conducting analyses and writing technical reports on various topics relating to plastic and degradable plastic resins. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with a wide variety of interested parties, including other government agencies, industries, and academic institutions; providing education and technical assistance to internal staff, local jurisdictions, and the solid waste and recycling industry; and active participation in meetings with interested parties and interagency and advisory groups. This position also requires the incumbent to assist with developing and implementing regulatory programs in the unit, including SB 270 (Padilla, Chapter 850, Statutes of 2014) and SB 1335 (Allen, Chapter 610, Statutes of 2018).

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

• This position may involve travel throughout the state approximately 10% of the time. The incumbent must have a current California Driver’s License and participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Employer Pull Notice Program.
• This position may be eligible for hybrid telework under Government Code 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California, subject to the candidate meeting telework eligibility criteria set forth in the CalEPA telework policy and/or future program need. Employees not residing in California are not eligible for telework. Regardless of telework eligibility, all employees may be required to report to the position’s designated headquarters location, as indicated on their duty statement, at their own expense. Beginning July 1, 2026, it is anticipated the position will be office-centered and employees will be expected to report to the office at least four days per week.

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

• When submitting application in hard copy, applicants are required to submit a standard state application (Form Std.678) with an original signature, and clearly indicate RPA 25-002 & Position # 835-776-0762-007 in the “Job Title(s)” section of the Standard State Application or you will not be considered for the position.
• Please attach a copy of your transcripts (unofficial or official) to your application to ensure the educational requirements have been met for this position. Failure to do so will result in your application being rejected.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Advanced verbal and written communication skills, including experience developing and giving presentations and writing and editing summaries of complex scientific topics for non-experts, preparing briefing documents, and collaborating with all levels of staff and other governmental agencies, industry, and the public.
• Advanced project management skills, including planning, organizing, and working independently to manage and complete multiple complex projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience performing independent research, interpreting environmental data, and problem-solving to address complex environmental issues through development of technical analyses that include policy options and recommendations.
• Ability to effectively interact with teams and promote collaborative relationships with internal and external parties, including governmental agencies, international groups, industry, non-governmental organizations, and the public.
• Knowledge of plastic materials, compostable and degradable plastics, packaging materials and product design, solid waste management systems and infrastructure, recycling and composting processes, contamination issues, and end markets for recovered packaging materials.
• Experience using Microsoft Office and software such as Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, and SharePoint, and using databases to develop spreadsheets and/or reports.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website or by visiting

Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Instructions

Applicants must submit a clear, organized, and well-written application packet, including a cover letter, resume, state application, and Statement of Qualifications.

Applicants must complete a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for this recruitment. The SOQ is a narrative discussion prepared by the applicant describing how the applicant's skills, knowledge, abilities, education, training, and experience qualify them for the position. Applications received without this information may not be considered for this position. The SOQ should have a title of “Statement of Qualifications, Your Name,” be no more than 2 pages, and no smaller than 12-point font.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts
• Other - Cover Letter
• Statement of Qualifications - Applicants must complete a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for this recruitment. See detailed instructions below.

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