Building Decarbonization Specialist

Building Decarbonization Specialist

Agency: State Air Resources Board
Classification: AIR POLLUTION SPECIALIST
Salary: $5,918.00 – $11,455.00 per month (new‑to‑state candidates receive the minimum salary of the classification when applicable)
Job Type: Permanent, Full‑Time
Location: Sacramento, CA (hybrid telework possible)
Number of Positions: Multiple
Final Filing Date: 02/12/2026

CARB’s Sustainable Transportation and Communities Division (STCD) is seeking a motivated staff person to serve as an expert on zero‑emission space and water heaters and to support the development of the state’s first zero‑emission appliance standards. The role requires integration of policy, technology, system analysis, and equity considerations to reduce building sector emissions.

• Conduct technical and policy analysis, quantifying costs, benefits, and equity impacts to inform regulatory concepts.
• Prepare and revise regulatory proposals, draft policy documents, and support implementation strategies.
• Engage stakeholders—appliance manufacturers, building industry, equity advocates, public agencies, and CARB leadership—through meetings, presentations, and written communication.
• Develop and maintain databases, models, and spreadsheets (e.g., Excel, MySQL, Postgre
  
  SQL, Python/R) to evaluate policy scenarios.
• Manage multiple high‑priority assignments, adapting to a fast‑changing policy environment and collaborating across cross‑branch project teams.
• Communicate complex findings in direct, concise, and non‑technical language to diverse audiences, including public presentations and written reports.
• Advise on social equity implications of building decarbonization and develop strategies to ensure benefits reach low‑income households and communities with high air‑pollution burdens.

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 4 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with at least 2 years of experience; preferred experience in environmental regulation, building energy systems, or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct quantitative policy analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of translating complex technical information into plain language.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet tools, databases, and basic programming (Python, R).
• Experience with stakeholder engagement and equity analysis is strongly preferred.

• Knowledge of building decarbonization efforts at federal, state, regional, or local levels.
• Experience with space heaters, water heaters, heat‑pump systems, induction cooktops, or similar appliances.
• Background in regulatory development and implementation.
• Advanced quantitative skills and experience developing metrics for policy impact.
• Strong understanding of social justice implications and experience addressing inequities in energy policy.
• Proficiency in communicating with diverse stakeholders, including public presentations and persuasive written communication.
• Collaborative experience across state agencies, local governments, academia, and community organizations.

• Hybrid in‑office and telework arrangement (subject to agency policy); in-person attendance required.
• Work performed in an office environment with standard lighting, temperature, and computer equipment.
• Regular use of a personal computer, phone, and office equipment.

• Local: nearby parking, convenient public transportation access.
• Recreation: gym, on‑site daycare (third‑party).
• Benefit details available at the CalHR and CalPERS websites.

Applicants must submit a completed application package (including the standard State Employment Application Std 678, resume, degree transcripts, and a Statement of Qualifications—SOQ) via your Cal Career account on  Hard‑copy applications may be mailed to:
State Air Resources Board, Lisa Webb, Classification & Certification Unit, 1001 I Street, 5th Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Drop‑off applications may be left at the same address between 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM. Secure drop‑off procedures are observed by the front‑office guard.

All required documents must be received or postmarked by the final filing date (02/12/2026). Applications lacking any required component will not be considered.

State Air Resources Board is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

Department Website:
EEO Contact:
Payam Ahmadi, (000) –,
California Relay Service: (TTY), (Voice)