Become an Environmental Protection Specialist with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical environmental expertise with a meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking an Environmental Protection Specialist to support the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the sustainability and regulatory landscape of vital healthcare facilities, ensuring that our nation's heroes receive care in a safe and environmentally conscious environment.
Job Responsibilities
As an Environmental Protection Specialist, you will act as a GEMS (Green Environmental Management System) Program Manager. Your core responsibilities include:
- Regulatory Oversight: Monitoring and ensuring facility compliance with federal, state, and local environmental laws.
- Policy Implementation: Developing and managing environmental goals and procedural documentation.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Advising facility leadership, staff, and external agencies on environmental program requirements.
- Technical Support: Providing expertise on environmental science principles and engineering controls.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $63,046 - $99,169 |
| Location | Las Vegas, NV |
| Schedule | Full-time (Mon-Fri) |
| Travel | Up to 25% |
Requirements
To succeed in this role, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific experience benchmarks. You must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 or GS-9 level (depending on the target entry grade), covering administrative functions, budget management, and environmental policy implementation. Additionally, all health care personnel must participate in mandatory vaccination programs.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $63,046 to $99,169 per year. Compensation is determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, providing stability and clear paths for future step increases and promotions based on performance and tenure.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and Wellness: Access to comprehensive health insurance programs.
- Leave Policies: Generous annual and sick leave accrual, with credit available for prior service.
- Retirement: Inclusion in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: A structured 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM schedule.
Application Tips
- Be Thorough: Clearly detail your hours and duties for every position listed on your resume.
- Documentation is Key: If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your SF-50 accurately reflects your time-in-grade.
- Use the Checklist: Use the provided documentation checklist to ensure you have attached your transcripts, DD-214 (if applicable), and professional certifications.
Serving the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who served our nation. If you have the environmental expertise and the passion for compliance and sustainability, we encourage you to apply for this vital role at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System.
Why This Environmental Protection Specialist Job Matters
Protect our environment while serving those who served us—join the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System as an Environmental Protection Specialist.
Environmental Protection Specialist Job Overview
The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Environmental Protection Specialist to lead GEMS (Green Environmental Management System) program initiatives. This role is pivotal in ensuring that our facilities maintain compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations while promoting sustainable operations across our campuses. You will collaborate with leadership, oversee compliance reporting, and provide expert guidance on environmental health and safety standards that support our mission of delivering world-class care to America's Veterans.
Requirements for Environmental Protection Specialist
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Completion of an online onboarding process is required.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccination programs is mandatory for all Health Care Personnel.
- Must meet one-year time-in-grade requirements if currently serving as a Federal employee (GS-7 for GS-9 applicants; GS-9 for GS-11 applicants).
Preferred Qualifications for Environmental Protection Specialist
- Strong background in administrative functions, including budget, finance, and logistics.
- Experience in identifying and implementing environmental regulatory training and policies.
- Proficiency in environmental science principles, including biology, chemistry, and ecology.
- Demonstrated ability in project management, contract support, and stakeholder engagement.
- Expertise in NEPA, cultural resources, and historic preservation compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Flexible scheduling and predictable work-life balance.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including a pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and internal advancement.
💡 How to Apply Environmental Protection Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Environmental Protection Specialist Job
- Create or log into your account at the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your resume detailing specialized experience and duties.
- Gather required documentation, specifically your most recent SF-50 if you are a federal employee.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and veterans' preference paperwork.
- Review your application status to ensure all materials have successfully cleared the virus scan and submission process.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your experience.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows 52 weeks of time-in-grade; if recent, include an older one as well.
- Tailor your description to highlight the specific competencies listed in the job posting.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents have cleared the system before the closing deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GEMS program?
GEMS stands for Green Environmental Management System. It is the framework the VA uses to ensure facility operations remain environmentally responsible and compliant with legal requirements.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Las Vegas, Nevada. Telework is not authorized for this role.
Can I qualify with volunteer experience?
Yes, qualifying experience can include unpaid or volunteer work if it demonstrates the necessary skills and competencies for the role.
What is the work schedule like?
The position is full-time, Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is there promotion potential?
Yes, the position has a promotion potential to the GS-11 level, subject to meeting performance and qualification requirements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System has been serving the Las Vegas veteran population since 1972. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle. We serve over 240,000 veterans through our main facility and community-based outpatient clinics. Joining the VA means becoming part of a community dedicated to integrity, compassion, and excellence.