BAR Smog Check Associate Referee

Foundation for California Community Colleges; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 33,062 - 42,705; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CalPERS retirement

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Tuition reimbursement

Career development and advancement

Job summary

Foundation for California Community Colleges seeks a Smog Check Associate Referee in California. The role supports the BAR Smog Check Referee program, trains student technicians, and ensures compliance with smog laws across multiple California locations.

You will inspect vehicles, respond to inquiries, and help manage reports. Based in Sacramento with remote opportunities statewide, this position offers benefits including CalPERS, health coverage, tuition reimbursement, and career development

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years of progressive experience in vehicle smog inspections, diagnostics, and repairs.
• Valid California driver’s license and active BAR EO Inspection license if applicable.
• ASE certifications are preferred and up-to-date.

Responsibilities

• Perform inspections and testing of consumer vehicles for smog certification.
• Verify compliance of smog check laws and regulations.
• Lead and train student technicians and program staff in testing procedures.
• Respond to technical queries from consumers, staff, and stakeholders.
• Submit reports outlining complaints and resolutions.
• Promote the Foundation’s mission through the Smog Check Referee Program.

Skills

Smog inspection expertise

Vehicle diagnostics

Communication with stakeholders

Education

Associate’s degree in Automotive Technology

ASE Master Technician Certification

Job description

Overview

Position: Smog Check Associate Referee. Locations: Whittier, Greater Los Angeles, San Jose, Riverside, Santa Barbara, Woodland Hills, LA, Oxnard, San Bruno, and more. The role trains under an experienced Referee and Manager and provides specialized Smog Check and other services to California community members.

Responsibilities

• Perform inspections and testing of consumer vehicles for smog certification.
• Verify compliance of smog check laws and regulations.
• Perform other inspections and tests as needed, and disseminate results to vehicle owners, staff, and program management.
• Respond to technical queries from consumers, industry, BAR, and stakeholders.
• Promote the mission of the Foundation through the BAR Smog Check Referee Program.
• Maintain a safe and incident‑free work environment and provide safety information.
• Maintain communication with Region Manager and other BAR referee sites; attend meetings and distribute reports.
• Submit recurring reports outlining complaints received and resolutions.
• Lead and direct the training and performance appraisal of student technicians and program staff.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3+ years of progressive experience in vehicle smog inspections, diagnostics, and repairs.
• BAR EO Inspection and Repair EI licenses (must be valid and current within 1 year of hire if incomplete).
• ASE A6, A8, and L1 Certifications (must be valid and current within 1 year of hire if incomplete).
• Valid California driver’s license.
• ASE Master Technician Certification a plus.
• Associate’s degree in Automotive Technology a plus.
• Passion for providing students with stronger pathways to education.
• Self‑starter, quick learner, outcome‑oriented.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.
• Strategic and creative thinker; problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage own work, prioritize tasks, deliver quality products on time.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced team and build collaborative relationships.
• Knowledge of, or willingness to learn about, the California Community College system and the Foundation’s mission.

Attributes for Success

• Strong communication skills with consumers, students, and staff.
• Calm and composed under high‑pressure situations.
• Professional subject‑matter expert.
• Commitment to safety and incident‑free work environment.
• Ownership mindset and accountability.

Benefits

• CalPERS defined benefit retirement plan.
• Generous medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Work in a mission‑driven, equity‑minded environment that values diversity.

Compensation

Hourly rate: $24.04 – $31.25 (based on education, experience, relevant skills, and internal equity).

Location

Based in Sacramento, California; remote opportunities available throughout the state.