Launch Your Career: Physical Scientist (Environmental) with the U.S. Air Force
Are you a student or recent graduate passionate about environmental science and service? The Department of the Air Force is offering an incredible opportunity to jumpstart your career through the PALACE Acquire Program. This 3-year internship is designed to mold talented individuals into expert professionals while supporting the global mission of the U.S. Air Force.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Scientist, you will not just be observing—you will be contributing. You will:
- Participate in environmental project planning and execution.
- Ensure site compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws.
- Support restoration and pollution prevention initiatives.
- Provide technical advice and reporting for environmental programs.
- Collaborate with senior scientists and engineers on complex technical tasks.
Requirements
To qualify for this competitive position, you must meet strict educational standards:
- Education: A bachelor's or master's degree in a physical science, engineering, or math field.
- Coursework: At least 24 semester hours of specific physical science or engineering studies.
- Academic Achievement: A GPA of 2.95 or higher (or 3.45 in your major).
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Eligibility Comparison Table
| Feature | GS-7 Level | GS-9 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Bachelor's Degree | Master's Degree (or 2 years grad study) |
| GPA Minimum (Overall) | 2.95 | 2.95 |
| Primary Focus | Foundations of Physical Science | Advanced Technical Support |
Salary and Benefits
The PALACE Acquire program is designed to reward growth. While the pay scale ranges from $49,960 to $99,314 depending on your entry grade and location, successful completion of training phases often leads to promotion. Benefits include federal health insurance, a generous leave policy, and the stability of a long-term federal career.
Application Tips
- Keep it Short: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Focus on high-impact keywords.
- Be Specific: Include hours worked per week and precise dates (Month/Year) for all previous jobs.
- Provide Proof: Always upload your official transcripts to avoid being automatically disqualified.
This is more than a job—it is a launchpad. If you have the scientific mind and the drive to protect our environment, the U.S. Air Force is ready to help you build a meaningful career. Apply today and secure your path to federal service.
Why This Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Matters
Launch your career in environmental science with the U.S. Air Force PALACE Acquire Program—a unique 3-year internship offering professional growth, hands-on experience, and a direct path to a permanent career.
Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force invites motivated post-secondary students and recent graduates to join the PALACE Acquire Program as a Physical Scientist (Environmental). This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of scientific experts through a 3-year formal training plan. As an intern, you will contribute to vital environmental projects, perform technical assessments, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) opportunity, providing a competitive starting salary and a clear trajectory for advancement within the federal civilian service.
Requirements for Physical Scientist (Environmental)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a 4-year degree (or 2 years of graduate study) in physical science, engineering, or mathematics.
- Academic coursework including 24 semester hours in physical science or related engineering science.
- Must meet specific GPA requirements (2.95 or higher overall; 3.45 or higher in major).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist (Environmental)
- Demonstrated ability to perform technical environmental research and data analysis.
- Strong proficiency in oral and written communication.
- Previous internship or volunteer experience in environmental compliance or pollution prevention.
- Capacity to work effectively in a team-oriented, mission-critical environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Structured 3-year career development and training plan.
- ✓Annual salary increases and potential for rapid grade promotion.
- ✓Federal health, retirement, and life insurance benefits.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and networking.
- ✓Direct pathway to a permanent federal civilian appointment.
💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job
- Create a profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a concise resume (maximum of 2 pages) highlighting your relevant work history, hours worked per week, and dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including official academic transcripts and, if applicable, military service records (DD-214).
- Submit your final application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
- Clearly list your GPA and relevant coursework as requested to prove eligibility.
- Verify that your resume includes the number of hours worked per week and exact dates of employment for every position listed.
- Double-check your application for clarity, as the recruiter will base their decision solely on your submitted documentation.
- Submit early to allow for any technical issues that may arise during the upload process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PALACE Acquire Program?
It is a 3-year training program designed to develop interns into fully proficient professionals within the Department of the Air Force, offering mentorship, structured training, and career advancement.
Can I apply if I am still a student?
Yes, current post-secondary students who have completed at least one year of a full-time degree program and are in good academic standing are eligible.
Does this position require a security clearance?
Yes, this role requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Is this a permanent position?
Yes, the program is designed to lead into a permanent civilian position upon successful completion of your training plan.
Can I apply at multiple locations?
Yes, this public notice covers multiple installations, and selections are made as vacancies occur at those sites.
Job from Air Force Civilian Career Training
The Department of the Air Force is tasked with defending the nation and securing our global interests through airpower. Their work is built on values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Joining as a civilian employee means you are part of an organization that values innovation, technology-to-warfighting capabilities, and the development of the next generation of leaders.