Become a Senior Scientific Advisor for the EPA
Are you ready to influence the future of the nation’s drinking water safety? The Environmental Protection Agency is currently looking for an expert leader to serve as a Senior Scientific Advisor for Safe Drinking Water Act Programs. This high-level position offers the chance to steer national policies, conduct critical research, and protect public health at the highest level.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the primary advisor to the Office of Water (OW) leadership. Key duties include:
- Policy Leadership: Developing and implementing national drinking water regulations (NPDWRs).
- Research Oversight: Directing time-critical research on health effects, risk assessments, and treatment technologies.
- Infrastructure Support: Overseeing the implementation of financial programs like the Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund.
- Strategic Collaboration: Leading interagency task forces to address emerging threats, water security, and wastewater management.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate deep expertise and a commitment to professional excellence. Requirements include:
- Education: A bachelor’s or higher in biological sciences, physical science, engineering, or math (with specific credit hour requirements for physical science applicants).
- Experience: 3+ years in drinking water quality assessment, with at least 1 year in a high-impact national leadership role.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Security: Ability to pass a High Risk background investigation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $197,201 - $228,000 |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Hiring Type | Scientific/Professional (ST) |
| Schedule | Full-time, Office-centered |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary consistent with the importance of the work performed. Beyond the salary, the EPA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- 26 days of paid vacation per year.
- Generous sick leave and federal holiday policies.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Excellent health and life insurance options.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, keep your resume concise (under 2 pages) and highlight your specific accomplishments in water quality management. Use the USAJOBS portal to track your application and ensure all required documentation, including transcripts, is uploaded before the deadline.
This is more than a job; it is a chance to safeguard our nation's water future. If you have the scientific expertise and leadership experience required, we encourage you to apply and make a difference at the EPA.
Why This Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs Job Matters
Lead the nation’s water quality strategy and protect public health at the highest level of environmental science.
Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs Job Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking an elite Senior Scientific Advisor to join the Office of Water (OW). In this high-impact, office-centered role based in Washington, D.C., you will spearhead research initiatives, influence national policy, and ensure the safety of our country's drinking water infrastructure. This Scientific or Professional (ST) position is designed for a visionary leader who can navigate the complex intersection of public health, environmental sustainability, and national security.
Requirements for Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Minimum 3 years of specialized experience in national drinking water quality assessment, mitigation, or policy.
- At least 1 year of experience in planning/executing high-significance national programs or specialized research.
- At least 1 year of experience equivalent to the GS-15 level.
- Degree in biological sciences, physical science, engineering, or mathematics (with specific semester hour requirements).
- Must pass a High Risk background investigation.
- Must file a financial disclosure statement (OGE-278).
- Resume must not exceed 2 pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs
- Proven track record in managing large-scale, interagency environmental research projects.
- Deep expertise in drinking water and wastewater treatment technologies.
- Ability to provide scientific recommendations that align with complex regulatory and national security goals.
- Established professional network of prominent scientists in the water health and security field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance options
- âś“Life insurance coverage
- âś“Paid vacation (26 days)
- âś“Paid sick leave and federal holidays
- âś“Situational telework eligibility
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Scientific Advisor For Safe Drinking Water Act Programs Job
- Click the official application link to log into or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the strict 2-page limit.
- Gather college transcripts or course listings.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation via the USAJOBS document portal.
- Submit your final application package before the 11:59 PM ET closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- The 2-page limit for your resume is strictly enforced; applications exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume provides specific, measurable examples of your work, as the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Redact sensitive personal information like your Social Security Number from your submitted documents.
- Review your application in the portal after uploading to ensure all files are attached and clearly visible.
- Contact the HR representative at least two business days before the closing date if you require any assistance or reasonable accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ST position?
ST stands for Scientific or Professional position. These are high-level roles requiring exceptional research or professional abilities, often exempt from traditional ranking and rating procedures.
Is this position remote?
No, this is an office-centered position. You are expected to report to the designated duty station in Washington, D.C. on a regular basis.
What if my education is from a foreign institution?
You must submit an equivalency evaluation for your foreign degree to be considered eligible.
Do I need a security clearance?
This is a High Risk position requiring a background investigation.
Is relocation provided?
No, relocation expenses are not paid by the agency for this position.
Job from Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA is a pillar of environmental protection in the United States. Tasked with protecting human health and the environment, the Agency employs scientists, engineers, and policy experts to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. By joining the Office of Water, you become part of a collaborative, mission-driven culture dedicated to sustaining our planet’s vital water systems.