Planning and Data Specialist

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is the only agency in the nation that combines Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance (including the State’s Medicaid program, KanCare) under one roof, enabling a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans.

About the role

Serve as a BOA staff meteorologist. Assist all BOA sections with meteorological analysis or data requirements such as modeling, wind roses, back/forward trajectories, and exceptional event documentation for the Bureau related to national ambient air quality standards, regional haze, greenhouse gas emissions, and other issues.

Responsibilities

• Gather and perform statistical or other analysis of air and meteorological data for State Implementation Plans and other relevant planning documents or projects.
• Review and comment on air quality or meteorological studies performed by EPA, Regional Planning Organizations, and others.
• Assist in application and review of dispersion modeling, mobile modeling, and meteorological modeling.
• Provide training and support for facility information and emissions within bureau databases.
• Manage, revise, and help implement the Kansas Smoke Management Plan.
• Meet with representatives at Kansas State University, BOA management, and other stakeholders to update and maintain the ksfire.org website.
• Create smoke outlooks based on current and future meteorology and expected burning to share with KDHE and neighboring states as a decision tool.
• Create weekly Flint Hills Wildland Fire Updates during the March and April burn season.
• Meet with vendors and manage contracts to produce smoke forecasts and burning summaries during spring burning season.

Requirements

• Four years’ experience in Meteorology or Atmospheric Science. Four years of experience in a relevant area may be substituted as determined relevant by the agency.
• Valid Driver's License—incumbent must maintain a valid driver's license when operating a state vehicle, private vehicle, or rental vehicle for the benefit of the State.
• A valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate is required for employment. Applicants receiving a formal job offer must obtain clearance within ten days of the offer.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years’ experience in performing meteorological data analysis.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Strong proofreading, editing, and attention to detail.
• Technical writing skills and data analysis skills.
• Knowledge of air pollution or other environmental pollution management.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Experience performing meteorological data analysis and forecasts.
• Experience or education in smoke management practices.
• Experience in an environmental program/project area.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, and vision coverage.
• Sick and vacation leave.
• Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave.
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually).
• Fitness Centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Pay

Pay rate: $25.94–$28.59 per hour. Salary varies depending on education, experience, or qualifications.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible schedules available). Full-time, regular position.

Verification of identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States is required by federal law. KDHE does not provide sponsorship for this position and participates in E-Verify.