Become a Leader in Environmental Stewardship with the FHWA
Are you ready to blend environmental science, policy advocacy, and infrastructure development? The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is currently looking for a Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist to join the Central Federal Highway Lands Division (CFLHD) in Lakewood, Colorado. This is a pivotal role for those who wish to ensure that America's infrastructure growth is both innovative and environmentally responsible.
Job Responsibilities
As a lead advisor to division leadership, your duties will include:
- Compliance Oversight: Ensuring all division projects meet federal, state, and local environmental standards.
- Policy Development: Crafting new work processes and improving existing environmental documentation workflows.
- Project Leadership: Guiding team members through complex NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) and NHPA (National Historic Preservation Act) requirements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Acting as a subject matter expert when coordinating with land management agencies and community partners to solve complex regulatory challenges.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 position, candidates must demonstrate a high level of expertise. Key requirements include:
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
- Expertise in managing environmental and cultural resource programs.
- Ability to communicate technical information to diverse audiences effectively.
- Demonstrable leadership skills to motivate teams.
Comparison of Responsibilities
| Area | Scope of Work |
|---|---|
| Compliance | NEPA, NHPA, and Section 4(f) documentation |
| Leadership | Managing staff and coordinating agency partnerships |
| Policy | Creating process improvements and managing business functions |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $118,675 to $154,280 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from federal health and insurance programs, retirement contributions, and the opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting more will result in only the first two pages being evaluated.
- Be Specific: Include dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific achievements in your previous roles.
- Verify Uploads: Ensure your documents are not just uploaded, but successfully linked to your application within the system.
Joining the Federal Highway Administration is a unique opportunity to play a vital role in building the nation's future. With a focus on sustainability, safety, and operational excellence, this position offers the perfect blend of technical work and leadership. Apply by the September 8, 2026, deadline to be considered.
Why This Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire Job Matters
Shape the future of American infrastructure as a leader in environmental stewardship with the Federal Highway Administration in scenic Lakewood, Colorado.
Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire Job Overview
The Central Federal Highway Lands Division of the FHWA is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist. In this high-impact role, you will serve as the primary advisor to division leadership, ensuring that critical infrastructure projects balance engineering innovation with environmental compliance and cultural resource preservation. This position is ideal for a mission-driven leader ready to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while fostering meaningful partnerships across state, local, and federal entities.
Requirements for Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period, including a supervisory probationary period if applicable.
- Submission of all required documents, including a resume limited to two pages, by the closing date.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable security investigation adjudication.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire
- Extensive experience with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
- Proven track record in managing teams of environmental or cultural resource professionals.
- Strong background in highway transportation projects and associated environmental compliance.
- Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain successful partnerships with regulatory and land management agencies.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills suitable for technical and public audiences.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- ✓Telework eligibility to support work-life balance.
- ✓Participation in federal retirement and insurance programs.
- ✓Impactful work within a consistently top-ranked federal agency.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist - Direct Hire Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the official federal portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing your relevant experience, including series and grade for federal roles.
- Register for an account if you haven't already and complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your resume and all supporting documentation before the deadline.
- Monitor your status through your application dashboard to see if you have been referred to the hiring manager.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Clearly define your experience dates, full-time/part-time status, and hours worked per week.
- Ensure all supporting documents, such as SF-50s or performance appraisals if applying under CTAP/ICTAP, are uploaded correctly.
- Complete the online questionnaire thoroughly, as it directly impacts your eligibility score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role is telework eligible, allowing for flexibility in how you manage your professional responsibilities.
What happens if I have trouble submitting my application?
If you experience technical issues while applying, you should contact the DOT Automated Staffing Office via email at [email protected].
Is there a probationary period?
*A: Yes, new supervisors are typically required to complete a one-year probationary period.*
What if I am a displaced federal employee?
*A: Priority consideration is given to CTAP/ICTAP candidates who meet the qualifications and provide the necessary documentation.*
Job from Federal Highway Administration
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is at the forefront of a "Golden Age of Transportation." The agency is dedicated to modernizing aging infrastructure, enhancing safety, and fostering innovation. As a member of the FHWA, you will join a team that values high performance, discipline, and urgency. The DOT is consistently recognized as one of the best places to work in the federal government, providing a supportive environment for career-driven professionals.