Become a Leader in Environmental Protection: Careers at the EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) remains the cornerstone of American environmental stewardship. Protecting our air, water, and land requires the brightest minds in science and engineering. Currently, the Office of Air and Radiation is seeking a Supervisory Environmental Engineer or Physical Scientist to join their team. This position offers a unique chance to lead critical programs that affect the health of millions.
Job Responsibilities
In this leadership role, your primary objective is to direct the activities of your unit to ensure compliance with federal air quality regulations. You will serve as a bridge between scientific data and public policy, offering strategic advice to senior leadership. Key duties include:
- Developing and overseeing air pollution control programs.
- Mentoring and coaching a team of professionals.
- Representing the agency before various stakeholders.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing environmental strategies.
Requirements
This position requires a deep technical background and proven leadership experience. Below is a comparison of key requirements for the GS-14 and GS-15 levels:
| Feature | GS-14 Level | GS-15 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | 1 year at GS-13 equivalent | 1 year at GS-14 equivalent |
| Core Focus | Technical advice/guidance | Strategy/Oversight |
| Leadership | Coaching/Mentoring | Leading workgroups/programs |
All applicants must meet basic educational requirements, such as a professional engineering degree or a physical science degree with at least 24 semester hours in related sciences.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is highly competitive, reflecting the senior-level expertise required. Compensation starts at $131,342 and can reach up to $197,200 annually, depending on experience and grade level.
Benefits
The EPA provides a robust benefits package that supports both your career and your personal life, including:
- Comprehensive healthcare and retirement savings (FERS).
- Generous vacation time and sick leave.
- Opportunities for situational telework.
- Access to the EPA Successful Leaders Program.
Application Tips
To stand out, your 2-page resume must clearly articulate how your past projects directly align with the qualifications described. Be specific with your dates of employment and highlight any experience in regulatory development. Use the USAJOBS tools to track your application and ensure all required documents are attached before the closing date.
This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals looking to leverage their engineering or scientific expertise to make a lasting impact on our nation’s air quality. If you are ready to take the next step in your public service career, we encourage you to review the official listing and submit your application today.
Why This Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist Job Matters
Shape the future of air quality policy as a leader within the Environmental Protection Agency, driving innovation in emissions reduction and climate protection.
Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist Job Overview
The EPA is seeking a visionary Supervisory Environmental Engineer or Physical Scientist to join the Office of Air and Radiation. In this role, you will lead high-impact initiatives, mentor professional staff, and influence critical environmental policies. You will work at the forefront of air pollution control, providing strategic guidance to ensure regulatory excellence. This is a vital leadership position where your technical expertise and managerial skills will directly contribute to protecting human health and the environment for communities across the nation.
Requirements for Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements for federal promotion.
- Completion of a one-year supervisory or managerial probationary period is required if selected.
- Successful completion of a rigorous background investigation for a High-Risk position.
- Must submit a resume not exceeding 2 pages.
- Ability to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure form upon hire and annually thereafter.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist
- Demonstrated experience in developing air pollution control regulations and emissions reduction strategies.
- Proven track record of leading complex workgroups and managing large-scale environmental projects.
- Strong proficiency in providing technical advice to senior leadership and diverse stakeholders.
- Experience coaching, mentoring, and developing subordinate staff to achieve organizational success.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Comprehensive retirement planning including FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System).
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Situational telework eligibility subject to agency policy.
- ✓Participation in the EPA Successful Leaders Program.
- ✓Life insurance options and flexible spending accounts.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully to ensure you qualify for your desired series.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages, detailing your relevant environmental or engineering experience.
- Log in to the USAJOBS portal to start your application and complete the required questionnaires.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms, before the closing date.
- Submit your final application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your 2-page resume to highlight your leadership achievements in environmental policy and project management.
- If you have federal experience, clearly list the grade levels and specific dates for every position.
- Ensure your transcript or coursework list clearly displays credit hours to verify your educational qualifications.
- Double-check your application for completion status in your USAJOBS account before the cutoff time.
- Be prepared to provide official transcripts and other documentation immediately upon selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than 2 pages?
No, if your resume exceeds 2 pages, you will be disqualified from the selection process.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an office-centered position. While situational telework may be available, you must be prepared to report regularly to your duty station in Washington, DC, or Durham, NC.
What happens if I miss the document upload deadline?
The application must be complete, including all required documentation, by the deadline. Late submissions are not accepted.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, travel and relocation expenses are not paid by the EPA for this position.*
Do I need a security clearance?
*A: This position is designated as High Risk and requires a comprehensive background investigation.*
Job from Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA is a federal organization committed to the mission of protecting human health and the environment. Employees at the EPA engage in work that is both challenging and meaningful, utilizing cutting-edge science and rigorous policy-making to combat pollution and climate change. As an agency, it champions professional growth and provides a collaborative environment for engineers, scientists, and policy experts.