Become an Environmental Protection Specialist at the Everglades National Park
Are you passionate about preserving the delicate balance of one of the world's most vital ecosystems? The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking a dedicated Environmental Protection Specialist to join our team at the Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to high-stakes environmental stewardship in a career that truly matters.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the point person for environmental compliance. You will review proposed actions, such as construction projects or land leases, to ensure they comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Core Duties:
- Compliance Oversight: Leading the interdisciplinary teams to ensure all activities meet federal environmental laws.
- Regulatory Coordination: Managing partnerships with other federal and state agencies.
- Reporting & Analysis: Preparing statements of findings and managing environmental information systems.
- Contract Management: Developing scopes of work and overseeing compliance-related projects.
Role Comparison
| Feature | Environmental Protection Specialist | Typical Consultant |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Internal Policy & Planning | Project-Specific Support |
| Impact | Long-term Park Preservation | Short-term Deliverables |
| Stakeholders | Federal Agencies & Public | Private Clients |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria by the closing date of September 8, 2026. This includes having at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level. Your resume must clearly outline these achievements, ensuring all hours per week are documented accurately.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $95,326 to $123,927 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that includes health insurance, a generous retirement savings plan (TSP), and ample paid time off.
How to Apply
The application process is conducted through the official USAJOBS portal. Candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents—including a 2-page resume and relevant SF-50 forms—well in advance of the deadline.
If you have the technical expertise and the drive to protect our environment, a career at Everglades National Park offers a fulfilling path. We encourage qualified professionals to review the requirements and submit their applications through the official channel by the September 8th deadline.
Why This Environmental Protection Specialist Job Matters
Protect the crown jewels of Florida's ecosystem. Join the National Park Service in this mission-critical role to shape the environmental legacy of the Everglades and Dry Tortugas.
Environmental Protection Specialist Job Overview
As an Environmental Protection Specialist, you will serve as a vital link between development and conservation. Based in the heart of the Florida Everglades, this position is responsible for ensuring that all park activities—from infrastructure improvements to land leases—adhere strictly to environmental protection standards, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). You will work closely with interdisciplinary teams, regulatory agencies, and project managers to balance operational needs with the preservation of one of the world's most sensitive ecosystems.
Requirements for Environmental Protection Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license
- Completion of a background investigation
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after Dec 31, 1959)
- Commitment to participating in direct deposit
- Successful completion of an E-Verify employment check
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, or on-call as needed
- Agreement to a one-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Protection Specialist
- Extensive knowledge of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
- Proven experience coordinating compliance for large-scale land or construction projects
- Strong background in managing environmental information systems
- Demonstrated ability to prepare and manage complex interagency agreements
- Expertise in reviewing biological assessments and floodplain impact statements
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Career development and training programs
💡 How to Apply Environmental Protection Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Protection Specialist Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully.
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, including hours worked per week.
- Complete the online questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under 2 pages; longer documents will be rejected.
- Clearly state your 'hours per week' for each job listed; generic 'full-time' may not be enough for verification.
- Ensure your performance appraisal is recent; if unavailable, provide a written explanation.
- Use the preview link to understand the questionnaire requirements before you start.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly shows your highest grade held.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this position requires specific specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the federal service and does not permit the substitution of education for this requirement.
Is telework available for this role?
The National Park Service has determined this position is generally not telework-eligible, except in instances of emergencies or natural disasters.
What is the most common reason for application disqualification?
*A: Submitting a resume longer than two pages or failing to document the specific hours worked per week.*
Is travel required?
*A: The role primarily takes place in an office environment, but you may occasionally travel for field inspections, workshops, or to attend interagency meetings.*
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, an agency within the Department of the Interior, is tasked with the monumental responsibility of managing and protecting the natural and cultural resources of the United States. Working for the NPS means more than just having a job; it means participating in the preservation of American heritage for future generations.