Become an Environmental Protection Specialist with the USDA
Are you looking to pivot your career toward public service? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently offering a unique opportunity for an Environmental Protection Specialist in Dallas, Texas. This role is central to the mission of the Rural Utilities Service, where your expertise will directly influence the sustainability and health of rural utility infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
As an Environmental Protection Specialist, your daily contributions will impact the long-term ecological balance of rural projects. Key duties include:
- Performing complex environmental impact analyses.
- Developing and maintaining Natural Resource Management Inventories.
- Facilitating high-level meetings between government agencies, tribal officials, and the public.
- Negotiating solutions for projects with extraordinary environmental sensitivity.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Documentation: A resume (maximum two pages) detailing your work history and relevant skills.
- Assessment: Completion of required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
| Requirement Type | Specificity |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience Level | GS-13 (Specialized) |
| Education | Not required for qualification |
| Probationary Period | 1-2 Years |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package ranging from $115,711 to $150,426 per year, reflective of the high-level expertise required for this critical infrastructure role.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Flexibility in work scheduling and telework eligibility.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: The two-page limit on your resume is firm. Focus on the most impactful achievements related to environmental law and compliance.
- Check Compatibility: Only upload approved file formats and ensure your document size is under 5MB.
- Monitor Status: Keep an eye on your USAJOBS account status and email notifications for assessment links.
This role represents an excellent opportunity for seasoned environmental professionals to apply their technical skills toward public good. By joining the USDA in Dallas, you are helping build a more sustainable and equitable future for rural communities across the nation.
Why This Environmental Protection Specialist Job Matters
Protect the pulse of rural America by shaping the environmental future of utility infrastructure with the USDA.
Environmental Protection Specialist Job Overview
The USDA Rural Development Agency is seeking a dedicated Environmental Protection Specialist to join the Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) division in Dallas, Texas. This pivotal role involves providing technical expertise and conducting complex environmental impact analyses for critical rural utility projects. You will serve as a lead advisor on ecological matters, ensuring that infrastructure developments—ranging from water systems to essential public facilities—adhere to rigorous environmental standards and federal mandates.
Requirements for Environmental Protection Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Completion of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Ability to evaluate environmental programs for compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Experience developing Natural Resource Management Inventories and monitoring policy implementation.
- Proficiency in staying updated on litigation regarding the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
- Must maintain a two-page limit on resume submissions.
- Successful completion of required USA Hire Assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Protection Specialist
- Advanced technical knowledge of ecological sciences.
- Experience conducting environmental audits and management surveys.
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate interagency and public meetings regarding sensitive projects.
- Strong skills in resolving complex, politically sensitive ecological issues through negotiation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work schedule options
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Environmental Protection Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Protection Specialist Job
- Review the full announcement details and requirements.
- Prepare a two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
- Click the online application link to register or log in.
- Complete the mandatory questionnaires and submit all required documents.
- Complete the USA Hire Assessments if notified via email or application status.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Clearly articulate your work schedule and hours per week for every position listed on your resume.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in compatible formats (PDF, DOC, TXT).
- Complete your assessments as soon as possible after receiving the access link.
- Utilize the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center for practice materials to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree required for this position?
No, this position relies exclusively on specialized experience. Education cannot be used as a substitute for the required one-year specialized experience.
What is the resume length limit?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applicants who provide resumes longer than two pages will be removed from consideration.
Can I work remotely?
This position is located in Dallas, Texas, and requires a physical presence; however, it is telework-eligible according to agency policy.
What is the most common reason for disqualification?
Exceeding the two-page resume limit is a frequent error. Always ensure your resume is formatted within the guidelines.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation expenses are not covered for this position.
Job from Agriculture, Rural Development
The USDA Rural Development agency is the engine of economic growth and infrastructure improvement for rural America. With a staff of nearly 5,000, the agency manages over 40 loan and grant programs. From modernizing water and sewer systems to expanding health clinics and electrical grids, the agency ensures that rural citizens have access to the same essential services as those in urban areas.