Launch Your Environmental Science Career with the EPA

Are you a recent graduate with a passion for environmental protection and scientific integrity? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering a unique entry point for emerging professionals in Chicago. As a Physical Scientist, Hydrologist, or Geologist, you will play a vital role in the Water Division, helping to oversee critical programs that safeguard our drinking water and natural resources.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, your responsibilities will evolve as you grow through the program. At the entry level, you will receive oversight while learning the ropes. As you progress toward the GS-12 potential, you will be expected to:

Interpret and implement complex environmental policies and regulations.
Manage Underground Injection Control (UIC) permitting processes.
Provide technical guidance to local and state stakeholders.
Ensure that environmental programs are supported by accurate, defensible, and high-quality data.

Requirements for Success

Candidates must meet specific educational and professional standards.

Requirement Type	Criteria
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education	Relevant Degree (Physical Science, Hydrology, or Geology)
Security	Must pass Moderate Risk background investigation
Residency	Must be able to report to Chicago, IL duty station

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a starting salary range of $56,409 to $89,703 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the EPA provides one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the federal sector, including robust retirement planning, life insurance, and extensive leave accrual.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting anything longer will result in automatic removal from the candidate pool.
Be Specific: Include clear dates (MM/DD/YY) for all experience.
Transcripts Matter: While unofficial copies work for the application, ensure they clearly indicate your graduation date and coursework.

This developmental program is a gateway to a long-term career in public service. If you have the scientific background and the drive to protect our environment, we encourage you to apply and help us build a greener future.

Why This Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist Job Matters

Launch your environmental career in Chicago with the EPA’s prestigious Recent Graduates Program—where your science background protects our nation's water resources.

Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist Job Overview

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking a motivated Physical Scientist, Hydrologist, or Geologist to join the Water Division, Permits Branch, in Chicago, IL. This one-year developmental program is designed to cultivate emerging professionals. Participants gain hands-on experience in underground injection control (UIC) and environmental policy implementation, with the potential for transition into permanent federal service upon successful program completion.

Requirements for Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must possess a qualifying bachelor’s degree in a relevant physical science, hydrology, or geology field.
Must undergo and pass a background investigation for a Moderate Risk position.
Must maintain a valid driver's license and be capable of operating a government-owned vehicle.
Must sign a formal participant agreement for the Recent Graduates Program.
Must complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure form within 30 days of appointment.
Proof of degree completion must be provided by April 2, 2026.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist

Academic background in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours of relevant coursework.
Graduate-level education in hydrology, geology, or related environmental sciences.
Demonstrated ability to interpret environmental policy and guidance.
Prior experience or academic focus on ground water protection or safe drinking water regulations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary with potential for career-ladder promotions.
✓Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance plans.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Situational telework options available based on agency policy.
✓Mentorship and professional development opportunities within the Pathways Program.

💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Scientist/Hydrologist/Geologist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
Ensure your resume is formatted to be exactly 2 pages or less.
Select the appropriate job series (Physical Scientist, Hydrologist, or Geologist) during the application process.
Complete the online questionnaire through the application portal.
Upload all required transcripts and, if applicable, veterans' preference documentation.
Submit the full application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise—only the first two pages will be read, and exceeding this limit will disqualify you.
Explicitly state your graduation date and academic credentials in your resume.
Use standard date formats (MM/DD/YY) for all work or volunteer experience to assist in qualification review.
Apply for every series for which you meet the educational requirements to maximize your chances of consideration.
Review your application status periodically through the USAJOBS portal to stay updated on your candidacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely?

This is an office-centered position. While situational telework may be approved by a supervisor for limited tasks, you are expected to report to the Chicago duty station regularly.

What happens after the one-year program?

Upon successful completion of the Recent Graduates Program, you may be eligible for non-competitive conversion to a term or permanent position within the EPA.

Does the EPA cover relocation costs?

No, relocation, travel, or transportation expenses to the duty station are the responsibility of the selected candidate.

Job from Environmental Protection Agency

The EPA is the heartbeat of environmental stewardship in the United States. Our mission is clear: to protect human health and the environment. By joining the EPA, you are not just taking a job—you are joining a network of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers dedicated to creating a sustainable future.