Advance Your Career as an Environmental Protection Specialist with the National Park Service
Are you passionate about environmental stewardship and federal policy? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently looking for a skilled Environmental Protection Specialist (NEPA Specialist) to work within the Washington Area Support Office (WASO). This role is instrumental in guiding the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) division toward sustainable compliance.
Job Responsibilities
As a NEPA Specialist, you will be the primary point of contact for environmental compliance. Your daily duties will include:
- Leading NEPA compliance reviews for outdoor recreation grant projects.
- Developing training materials for NPS staff and state-level partners.
- Evaluating complex biological reports and environmental screening tools.
- Conducting tribal consultations to ensure government-to-government cooperation.
- Preparing critical decision documents like the Finding of No Significant Action (FONSI).
Comparison: Role Requirements
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen required |
| Experience | 1 year at GS-12 level |
| Assessment | USA Hire Required |
| Telework | Available (Eligible) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $114,684 to $149,091 per year. In addition to salary, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including robust health insurance, retirement options through FERS, and a generous leave policy.
Application Tips
Because this posting is capped at 50 applications, time is of the essence. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages, follows all font and margin guidelines, and explicitly lists your work hours. Failing to include specific hours can lead to a rejection based on incomplete information.
This role is a unique opportunity to influence environmental policy at a national level. If you possess the required specialized experience and are ready to tackle complex compliance challenges, we encourage you to apply early to secure your spot in the selection pool.
Why This Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist) Job Matters
Protect our nation's legacy and natural resources by driving environmental compliance for the National Park Service.
Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Environmental Protection Specialist to join the Washington Area Support Office. In this vital role, you will manage NEPA compliance for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Division, ensuring that critical outdoor recreation projects meet all federal environmental standards and cultural preservation requirements.
Requirements for Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must possess at least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must register for the Selective Service.
- Must complete the USA Hire assessment series.
- Must adhere to a 1-year probationary period.
- Must agree to direct deposit of salary.
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist)
- Deep understanding of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
- Experience in government-to-government tribal consultations.
- Proven history of managing Section 106 compliance under the National Historic Preservation Act.
- Expertise in evaluating Environmental Assessments and contractor-generated biological reports.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care options.
- ✓Generous retirement plans (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Telework opportunities with supervisory approval.
- ✓Professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Protection Specialist (Nepa Specialist) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages and details hours worked per week.
- Click the Apply Online button and answer all application questions.
- Submit your resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and performance appraisals.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments via the link provided after submission.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the 2-page limit and font requirements.
- Explicitly state 'full-time' or '40 hours per week' to receive credit for experience.
- Submit your application early, as this vacancy closes after the first 50 applications are received.
- Prepare for the USA Hire assessment by reviewing resources on the OPM portal.
- Use your most recent performance appraisal for maximum credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for the required experience?
No, this position requires professional experience alone; education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience requirement.
What is the application limit?
This announcement is capped at the first 50 applications. Once this limit is reached, the job will close, so prompt submission is highly recommended.
Can I work remotely?
This position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval, but it is not a fully remote role.
Will education substitute for experience?
*A: No, you must meet the professional experience requirement through relevant employment history.*
How do I know if I have been selected?
*A: You will be notified via your USAJOBS account once your application has been evaluated.*
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to protecting America's natural, cultural, and historical treasures. As part of the NPS team, you contribute to a legacy of preservation, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural splendor and historical context of our national parks.