Become an Environmental Protection Specialist at Everglades National Park
The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking a dedicated Environmental Protection Specialist to join the Planning and Compliance Branch at Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks. If you possess a background in environmental law, policy compliance, and interdisciplinary team management, this role offers a unique opportunity to protect some of America's most precious natural landscapes. This guide provides an overview of the position, the requirements for success, and how to navigate the federal application process.
Job Responsibilities
As an Environmental Protection Specialist, you will act as a bridge between park planning, technical experts, and regulatory bodies. Your primary duties include:
- Overseeing the NEPA environmental compliance process.
- Leading interdisciplinary teams (IDTs) to minimize environmental impacts.
- Preparing statements of findings regarding wetlands and floodplains.
- Managing environmental information systems.
- Coordinating with federal and state agencies to secure necessary environmental permits.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet strict federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Successful background check and E-Verify.
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
- Relevant specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
- Submission of a 2-page resume adhering to specific formatting guidelines.
Salary and Benefits
This position is graded at the GS-12 level, with a competitive salary range of $95,326 to $123,927 annually. Beyond salary, federal employees enjoy:
| Benefit Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Health/Insurance | Comprehensive medical and life insurance options |
| Retirement | FERS pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) |
| Leave | Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays |
Application Tips
Success in the federal application process requires meticulous attention to detail. Always verify your resume length, as the system will reject any resume exceeding two pages. Ensure you explicitly mention the hours worked per week for every position to receive proper credit for your specialized experience.
Serving as an Environmental Protection Specialist at the Everglades is more than just a job; it is a commitment to conservation. If you are prepared to manage complex compliance projects and work within a high-stakes environment, we encourage you to submit your application through the USAJobs portal before the deadline.
Why This Environmental Protection Specialist Job Matters
Protect the natural beauty of the Everglades and Dry Tortugas while advancing your career in federal environmental policy.
Environmental Protection Specialist Job Overview
Join the National Park Service team as an Environmental Protection Specialist based in Homestead, Florida. You will play a vital role in ensuring that environmental compliance is at the forefront of park planning and project management. This position involves direct collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders to uphold the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and protect the ecological integrity of these iconic national treasures.
Requirements for Environmental Protection Specialist
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Possession of a valid state driver's license.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Participation in mandatory direct deposit.
- Successful completion of an E-Verify employment check.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel charge card.
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Protection Specialist
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
- Proven expertise in managing environmental compliance documentation for federal projects.
- Demonstrated ability to lead interdisciplinary teams in NEPA-related tasks.
- Experience in analyzing and documenting environmental impacts for floodplains and wetlands.
- Professional experience in coordinating with regulatory agencies and non-government stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Environmental Protection Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Protection Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather necessary documentation, including your most recent performance appraisal and SF-50s (if applicable).
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJobs portal.
- Complete the required questionnaire.
- Upload all mandatory documents as specified in the job announcement.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for every position held.
- Keep your resume strictly under 2 pages; longer documents will be automatically disqualified.
- Focus on highlighting your direct experience with environmental laws and interdisciplinary leadership.
- Review your application for the required 'Performance Appraisal' to ensure it is dated within the last 18 months.
- Save a copy of your application questionnaire responses for your personal records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required work experience?
No, this specific position does not allow for the substitution of education for the specialized experience requirement.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can monitor your application status by logging into your USAJobs account. The agency will not provide status updates via individual inquiries.
Is telework available for this role?
Telework for this position is restricted to emergency or natural disaster scenarios only.
What is the most important document to include?
Your resume and your most recent performance appraisal are the two most critical documents for a competitive application.
How often will I work from home?
This role is primarily office-based; telework is reserved for emergencies only.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the National Park Service are committed to managing the nation’s cultural and natural heritage. By joining this team, you become a guardian of the environment, ensuring that the legacy of our National Park System remains intact for future generations.