The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a dream employer for many climate-minded undergrads. And yet, understanding the processes involved in finding and applying for these federal positions can be a daunting task. It can be difficult to figure out where to even find open positions, much less actually apply for them.

Overcoming these barriers to many climate career pathways was a motivating factor behind the PCC Undergraduate Cohort‘s recent Alumni Climate Career Panel, which included Dr. Nicole Briggs, a former member of the PCC who is now working for the EPA in Region 10 (the PNW and Alaska). After sharing lots of wisdom and advice about her own pathway at the in-person event, Dr. Briggs graciously shared specific resources for students and early career scientists to begin their search for an EPA job. The information is shared below:

Information about jobs at EPA Region 10

• Students and recent graduates have the best chance to find out about EPA announcements by getting tied into Handshake. EPA advertises our internship program and all GS 9-11 positions through Handshake. Assuming applicants don’t have specific work experience, if they have a bachelor’s they will qualify for a GS7, a master’s a GS9, and a PhD at a GS11. (Note: GS refers to the General Schedule pay scale, used in many federal government positions. The associated salaries for each level can be found here.)
• Many positions are only open for 5 days so students can set up a search notification in USAJobs that will email them jobs that fit their desired descriptions (grade, location, agency, etc).
• Students can look into the Pathway programs (internships, Presidential management fellows for current students and recent grads)
• Students should also know that there are specific hiring opportunities for those with disabilities and for Veterans