Launch Your Career at the Environmental Protection Agency
Are you looking to use your scientific expertise for the greater good? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently seeking talented individuals to fill critical roles within the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. This is an incredible opportunity to apply your technical knowledge to protect human health and the natural world.
Job Responsibilities
As an interdisciplinary professional at the EPA, your primary duties will revolve around scientific rigor and regulatory oversight. You will:
- Analyze and evaluate data for chemical risk assessments.
- Develop and interpret guidelines related to statutes like the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex environmental problems.
- Prepare technical reports and deliver findings to agency stakeholders and external partners.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific baseline criteria, including U.S. citizenship and a successful background investigation. You must also hold the required academic credentials in your specific discipline (e.g., Biology, Toxicology, Engineering, or Chemistry). A major emphasis is placed on your ability to translate scientific data into actionable regulatory policy.
Salary and Grade Comparison
This position offers a broad pay spectrum based on your experience and the assigned GS grade level.
| GS Level | Experience Focus | Typical Responsibility Level |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry/Mid-level data analysis | Supporting science assessors |
| GS-12 | Intermediate risk evaluations | Interpreting scientific reports |
| GS-13 | Senior regulatory leadership | Policy implementation & mentoring |
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides significant advantages. You will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive federal salary structures.
- Full health, life, and retirement benefit options (FERS).
- Generous leave accrual, including paid vacation and sick time.
- Opportunities for professional development within the federal framework.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Over-length resumes will result in immediate disqualification.
- Be Specific: When describing your experience, provide exact dates and clarify your role, especially for federal jobs where grade levels are required.
- Use the Right Series: This is an interdisciplinary announcement; ensure you select all job series for which you are qualified.
This position represents a unique intersection of scientific research and public policy. If you are ready to contribute to the nation’s environmental safety efforts, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application today.
Why This Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on public health and the environment by joining the EPA's team of experts in chemical safety and risk assessment.
Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking skilled professionals for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. This interdisciplinary role offers the opportunity to influence regulatory decisions, evaluate chemical risks, and contribute to vital pollution prevention initiatives. We are hiring across multiple disciplines—including biologists, toxicologists, engineers, and physical scientists—to work on complex projects that protect our communities and ecosystems.
Requirements for Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must undergo a moderate-risk background investigation.
- Must adhere to a two-page maximum limit for the resume.
- Must be able to report to an assigned duty station.
- Complete a one-year probationary period upon hiring.
- Submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure form within 30 days of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist
- Expertise in identifying and evaluating data for chemical risk assessments.
- Proven track record in developing or implementing regulations related to TSCA, PPA, or EPCRA.
- Strong technical leadership or mentorship experience.
- Advanced graduate education, specifically a Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant scientific field.
- Proficiency in utilizing specialized software for environmental data analysis and retrieval.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for situational telework as permitted by agency policy.
- ✓Access to a dynamic, mission-driven professional environment.
💡 How to Apply Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biologist/Toxicologist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully to identify appropriate job series.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather all academic transcripts or a list of relevant coursework.
- Click the Apply button in the announcement to sign into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete all required questionnaires and upload your supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on specific, quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your technical skills.
- If you have federal experience, clearly state your grade or pay band for each position.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
- If you qualify for multiple job series, ensure you select all that apply during the submission process.
- Verify that your resume formatting matches USAJOBS recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the educational requirement for this position?
Depending on the series chosen (e.g., Biologist, Chemist, Engineer), you must possess at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field or a combination of education and experience that meets the OPM standards.
Are there opportunities for remote work?
No, this is an office-centered position. While situational telework may be available per agency policy, you are expected to report to the assigned duty station regularly.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Your application will be deemed ineligible. You must adhere strictly to the two-page limit to ensure your materials are reviewed.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, travel and relocation expenses will not be paid by the EPA for this position.
Are there multiple locations available?
Yes, the agency is hiring in Washington, DC, Durham, NC, and Cincinnati, OH.
Job from Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA is a cornerstone of American environmental regulation. Dedicated to providing safe, clean, and healthy communities for everyone, the agency leads the charge in identifying environmental hazards and developing policies to mitigate them. Joining the EPA means becoming part of a diverse community of scientists, engineers, and policy experts committed to making a tangible, positive impact on our planet.