BAR Smog Check Associate Referee

The Foundation for California Community Colleges is a respected nonprofit auxiliary organization dedicated to supporting California's robust system of community colleges, serving over 2.1 million students, campuses, and diverse communities. The Foundation's goal is to enhance the social and economic mobility of Californians by providing resources, innovation, and programs that foster educational success and workforce readiness. With a steadfast commitment to equal opportunity and a diverse workforce, the Foundation seeks to uphold an inclusive environment where employees and applicants are respected regardless of race, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. As the official auxiliary to the Chancellor's Office, the Foundation plays a critical role in empowering California's community college system to address the unique needs of all populations across the state.

The Smog Check Referee Program, operated by the Foundation in partnership with the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), is actively recruiting for the position of BAR Smog Check Associate Referee throughout various locations in California including Whittier, Greater Los Angeles, San Jose, Riverside, Santa Barbara, Woodland Hills, Oxnard, San Bruno, and more. This is a full-time, temporary (1-year maximum) role with an FTE, non-exempt status, offering a pay range between $24.04 and $31.25 per hour depending on education, experience, skills, and internal equity. The position allows for flexibility to work remotely within California or in-person at the Sacramento office, with occasional travel required.

The BAR Smog Check Associate Referee position serves as an essential training and developmental role within the Smog Check Referee Program. This opportunity is designed for candidates who may not yet fully meet the qualifications for the full Referee role but seek to gain experience and expertise under the mentorship of experienced Referees and managers. Associate Referees perform specialized services related to smog check inspections, emissions testing, diagnosis, repair, and consumer education that industry personnel are not authorized to provide. They play a vital role in ensuring public understanding of smog check processes, identifying smog failures, and helping consumers navigate their options in a calm and professional manner.

Successful candidates will have practical experience in vehicle emissions testing, diagnostics, and repairs, and demonstrate strong communication skills to confidently discuss smog check topics with diverse audiences including consumers, students, BAR staff, and industry representatives. Within one year, an Associate Referee is expected to master all job functions, maintain composure in high-pressure situations, and become a recognized subject matter expert. The role also includes responsibilities in training student technicians, handling technical inquiries, maintaining safe work environments, collaborating with program management, leading continuous improvement initiatives, and contributing to a culture of shared leadership and organizational values.

This role demands a proactive and adaptable individual capable of working with evolving technology platforms such as Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, Teams, SharePoint, and other relevant software. The position entails physical requirements such as the ability to remain seated for extended periods, operate computers and office equipment, perform vehicle inspections involving bending and lifting, and travel within California. The Associate Referee is also responsible for maintaining multiple reporting channels, fostering teamwork, mentoring junior staff, and providing impeccable service to uphold the Foundation's mission in supporting California's environmental and community health goals.