Become an Economist for the EPA: A Guide to Driving Policy Impact
Are you looking to apply your economic expertise to one of the most important missions in the country? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Economist to join their team in Washington, D.C. This GS-14 position is designed for individuals who thrive on complex data, rigorous research, and cross-functional collaboration.
About the Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA is the heartbeat of America's environmental protection efforts. Its mission is to protect human health and the environment by developing and enforcing regulations based on the best available science. Working here means more than just having a job; it means contributing to the legacy of our natural resources.
Role Overview and Responsibilities
As an EPA Economist, you will occupy a pivotal role within the Office of the Administrator. You will be responsible for:
- Providing Technical Consultation: Translating complex economic theory into actionable advice for government officials.
- Quantifying Trade-offs: Conducting rigorous benefit-cost analyses of proposed regulations and agency programs.
- Advancing Economic Capability: Leading research initiatives to improve how the agency models environmental outcomes.
- Collaborating Across Disciplines: Partnering with scientists, engineers, and public health experts to ensure holistic regulatory frameworks.
Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Economic Roles
| Feature | Private Sector Economist | EPA Economist (GS-14) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Profit Maximization | Public Welfare & Policy |
| Collaboration | Internal Stakeholders | Inter-agency & Public Policy Teams |
| Impact | Market Share | Regulatory Standards for the Nation |
| Stability | Variable | Federal Career Stability |
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet strict criteria:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree in economics with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
- Experience: You need at least one year of full-time, specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent).
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Security: You must be able to obtain a Moderate Risk background clearance.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. In addition to the base compensation, employees receive a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Generous retirement options via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid federal holidays, sick leave, and vacation time.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
Application Tips for Success
Federal hiring can be competitive. To stand out:
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be 2 pages maximum. Use the OPM Resume Guidance to prioritize high-impact metrics.
- Be Explicit: Clearly list dates and grade levels for all your relevant experience. Do not leave the hiring committee to guess your qualifications.
- Read the Questionnaire: The online application includes a questionnaire that acts as a pass/fail gateway. Answer these accurately.
If you have the economic rigor and the passion for public service required for this role, we encourage you to apply. You are not just crunching numbers; you are protecting the future of our environment. Visit the official USAJobs link today to submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Economist Job Matters
Shape the future of our nation's environmental policy as a senior economist with the Environmental Protection Agency. Your analytical expertise will directly inform vital regulatory decisions that balance economic costs with the health of our planet.
Economist Job Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking a highly skilled Economist to join the Office of the Administrator. Based in Washington, D.C., this GS-14 position offers a unique opportunity to influence environmental policy through advanced quantitative analysis, economic research, and collaborative problem-solving. You will provide critical expertise on cost-benefit trade-offs, supporting the agency’s mission to foster a safer, cleaner, and healthier environment for all Americans.
Requirements for Economist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold a bachelor's or higher degree in economics with at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in government or private sectors.
- Ability to pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
- Completion of a Confidential Financial Disclosure form within 30 days of hire and annually thereafter.
- Adherence to REAL ID requirements for employment identification.
Preferred Qualifications for Economist
- Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, conduct, and review complex quantitative economic analyses.
- Proven track record in leading inter-agency workgroups and collaborating with multi-disciplinary experts.
- Experience in advanced modeling and measurement techniques for environmental economic impacts.
- Strong technical competence in interpreting health, engineering, and environmental data.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Situational telework options (subject to agency policy)
- ✓Professional development and career growth pathways
💡 How to Apply Economist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Economist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly on the official portal.
- Prepare a concise resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
- Gather academic transcripts and any required supporting documentation (SF-50, etc.).
- Complete the online application questionnaire via the official hiring portal.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under 2 pages to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Be specific with dates (MM/DD/YY) and describe your duties clearly in relation to the position requirements.
- If claiming federal experience, explicitly list your grade level or pay band.
- Review your application status via your account dashboard after submission.
- If you require reasonable accommodations, contact the HR office at least two business days before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
You must hold at least a bachelor's degree in economics, including 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
Can I work remotely?
This is an office-centered position in Washington, D.C. While situational telework may be approved by a supervisor for limited, ad-hoc tasks, full-time remote work is not authorized.
Is the resume length strictly enforced?
Yes. Resumes exceeding 2 pages will not be reviewed. Ensure your most relevant experience is captured within this limit.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated as Moderate Risk and requires a background investigation.
Does this role allow for remote work?
No. This is an office-centered position located in Washington, D.C.
How will I be evaluated?
This role uses Direct Hire Authority, meaning veterans' preference and competitive ranking do not apply in the traditional sense. Instead, subject matter experts will review your qualifications on a pass/fail basis.