Launch Your Career as a Physical Scientist with the Bonneville Power Administration
Are you ready to blend scientific expertise with environmental advocacy? The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is currently seeking a highly motivated Physical Scientist (Environmental) to join their team in Portland, Oregon. This position is a unique blend of office-based analytical work and rugged field investigation, essential to protecting the Pacific Northwest's natural landscape while ensuring clean, efficient energy transmission.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Scientist, you will serve as a lead technical authority. Your responsibilities include:
- Scientific Analysis: Collecting and evaluating soil, groundwater, and surface water samples to inform environmental assessments.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all operations align with the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, CERCLA, and RCRA.
- Field Leadership: Coordinating emergency response efforts for spills and overseeing site remediation.
- Technical Consulting: Providing expert guidance to engineering teams on environmental best practices for construction and maintenance.
Comparison: GS-11 vs. GS-12 Roles
| Feature | GS-11 | GS-12 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Entry/Mid-level | Advanced/Lead |
| Substitution | Possible with Education | None |
| Core Focus | Field Sampling/Assistance | Design/Technical Advice |
Requirements
Applicants must meet specific education and experience thresholds. This position requires a U.S. citizenship, a valid driver's license, and the ability to perform physical tasks like hiking uneven terrain and lifting 50 lbs. You must provide official or unofficial transcripts to verify your educational background in physical science, engineering, or mathematics.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $80,465 to $125,378 per year. Beyond the paycheck, federal employment includes a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and insurance coverage.
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- A secure retirement path through the FERS pension and TSP matching.
- A supportive, eco-friendly work environment in Portland, OR.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your two-page resume is detailed, clearly listing your duties, dates of employment, and salary history. Because this role involves a competency-based assessment, we recommend setting aside quiet time to complete the USA Hire assessments upon notification. Ensure you highlight any experience that demonstrates your ability to interpret complex environmental regulations in a field setting.
This position offers the chance to do meaningful work in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States. If you possess the scientific expertise and the passion for environmental protection, apply today to help the Bonneville Power Administration power the future sustainably.
Why This Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Matters
Power your career with purpose: Join the Bonneville Power Administration as a Physical Scientist and protect the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Overview
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), a self-funding branch of the U.S. Department of Energy, is seeking a dedicated Physical Scientist (Environmental) to join their Technical Services team in Portland, Oregon. This role is pivotal in managing environmental protection and pollution abatement programs for critical power infrastructure. If you are passionate about combining technical scientific rigor with environmental stewardship in one of the nation's most vibrant, eco-friendly cities, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Requirements for Physical Scientist (Environmental)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in related physical/engineering sciences
- Possession of a valid state driver's license
- Ability to perform moderate physical labor, including hiking on uneven terrain and lifting up to 50 lbs
- Must be willing to engage in frequent overnight travel (11+ days per month for fieldwork)
- Successful completion of a background check and potential periodic physical examinations
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist (Environmental)
- Graduate-level education (Ph.D. or equivalent) in a related scientific field for GS-11 applicants
- Experience in coordinating emergency on-scene spill responses
- Deep understanding of environmental statutes including the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, CERCLA, and RCRA
- Proven history of providing technical guidance to engineering teams for large-scale utility projects
- Strong analytical skills regarding federal and state environmental regulatory compliance
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Access to the 'Be Well' program promoting work-life balance and overall wellness
💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job
- Create a login.gov account and log in to USAJOBS.
- Prepare a detailed two-page resume highlighting your relevant experience and education.
- Gather your transcripts and any required supporting documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-50, or Schedule A letters).
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of November 1, 2026.
- Monitor your email for a unique URL to complete the USA Hire competency-based assessments within 48 hours of notification.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, work schedules, and salary information for every role listed.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary federal formatting requirements are met.
- Check your spam folder regularly during the application process, as assessment notifications may be filtered.
- Clearly explain how your experience maps to the specialized experience requirements defined for either the GS-11 or GS-12 grade levels.
- Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time for the USA Hire assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this position?
The role focuses on providing scientific and technical expertise for pollution prevention, abatement, and natural resource management across BPA infrastructure projects.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position requires in-person reporting to the official duty station in Portland, Oregon, and regular travel for field duties.
Can I submit my application documents via email?
No, all documents must be submitted through the online application portal. Documents emailed or mailed will not be accepted.
What is the travel requirement?
You should expect frequent overnight travel, averaging 11 or more days per month for fieldwork.
Are there relocation benefits?
No, relocation benefits are not authorized for this position.
Job from Bonneville Power Administration
The Bonneville Power Administration is a nonprofit federal power marketing administration that plays a crucial role in the Pacific Northwest’s energy grid. Headquartered in Portland, BPA manages federal hydroelectric projects and supports a sustainable energy future. The agency is part of the Department of Energy and is recognized for its commitment to veteran employment and work-life balance through its 'Be Well' program.