Launch Your Career as an Environmental Engineer with the South Dakota Air National Guard
Are you looking to merge your engineering expertise with a mission-critical role that protects our natural resources? The South Dakota Air National Guard is currently seeking a highly motivated Environmental Engineer to join the team in Sioux Falls. This position offers a unique blend of technical engineering challenges and public service within the Department of the Air Force.
Job Responsibilities
As the installation Environmental Program Manager, you will serve as the primary point of contact for all environmental activities. Key responsibilities include:
- Program Management: Developing and executing long-range environmental planning and budgeting.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all base activities adhere to federal, state, and local environmental laws.
- Technical Oversight: Reviewing construction documents for environmental impact and managing vendor contracts.
- Regional Collaboration: Assisting with aircraft mishap responses, air emission estimates, and storm water discharge monitoring.
- Leadership: Providing technical guidance and limited supervision to team members to ensure mission success.
Role Comparison Table
| Feature | Environmental Engineer (This Role) | Typical Private Sector Role |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Regional/Installation-wide | Project-specific |
| Impact | National Security & Environmental Health | Client profit margins |
| Benefits | Comprehensive Federal Package | Varies by company |
| Work Environment | Government/Military Base | Corporate Office/Site |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-12 position, applicants must demonstrate a strong foundation in engineering principles. You must hold an engineering degree from an ABET-accredited institution or demonstrate an equivalent combination of education and professional experience. Additionally, candidates must possess one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Federal retirement and savings plans.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Flexible work environment and potential for recruitment incentives.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly link your past experience to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Be Precise: Use specific dates (month/year) and clearly state hours worked per week.
- Double-Check Documents: Ensure all transcripts and certification documents are uploaded in full before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the significance of the Title 5 classification? A: Title 5 refers to the excepted service classification for this specific civilian role within the Air National Guard.
Q: Is travel required for this position? A: Yes, the role may require travel for staff assistance visits and regional assessments.
This Environmental Engineer position is an exceptional opportunity for professionals looking to make a tangible impact on the environment and our national defense. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging, rewarding career, we encourage you to submit your application package before the July 24, 2026, deadline.
Why This Environmental Engineer (Title 5) Job Matters
Protect the environment while securing national readiness—become an Environmental Engineer with the South Dakota Air National Guard.
Environmental Engineer (Title 5) Job Overview
The South Dakota Air National Guard is seeking a dedicated Environmental Engineer (GS-12) to serve as a pivotal technical leader within the Base Environmental Management Office in Sioux Falls. In this role, you will spearhead environmental programs, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide essential guidance to protect both human health and natural resources. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering expertise to high-impact military and regional environmental challenges while enjoying the stability and benefits of federal service.
Requirements for Environmental Engineer (Title 5)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent combination of education and experience
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Submission of a complete two-page resume detailing hours worked per week and dates of employment
- Provision of academic transcripts
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Engineer (Title 5)
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or Engineer Intern (EIT) certification
- Prior experience in federal environmental program management
- Proficiency in contract administration and technical oversight
- Demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance across federal, state, and local domains
- Proven success in communicating complex technical findings to executive-level military or civil leadership
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency policy and budget
💡 How to Apply Environmental Engineer (Title 5) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Engineer (Title 5) Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a detailed resume (two-page limit) documenting specific work history, hours per week, and professional duties.
- Compile supporting documentation, including college transcripts and any relevant professional certifications.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, gather DD 214 and/or SF-15 documentation.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the application link before the midnight Eastern Time closing deadline.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) mentioned in the job posting directly in your resume.
- Upload all required documents well in advance to ensure they pass the system's virus scan.
- Review your application thoroughly for accuracy before final submission to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and requires on-site presence to manage installation environmental programs.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Secret-level security clearance.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, the announcement specifies a two-page limit for resumes. Ensure your most relevant experience is captured within this constraint.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The South Dakota Air National Guard plays a vital role in both state and federal missions. From protecting life and property during emergencies to maintaining combat-ready forces for national defense, the organization serves as a pillar of strength and reliability. Working with the 114th Civil Engineering Squadron means joining a team dedicated to excellence, safety, and sustainable operations.