Environmental Protection Specialist- DIRECT HIRE

The positions are in the FTA Office of Environmental Policy and Programs, Project Review and Advancement Division (TPE-31) and Environmental Technical Analysis Division (TPE-32). As an environmental professional, you will provide policy direction, guidance, and training to FTA Regional Offices and external audiences on implementing NEPA and related legislation and environmental requirements, as well as support for the efficient management of the environmental review process.

As an Environmental Protection Specialist: The specific duties of the position that will be filled with this announcement differ depending on the Division: Office of Environmental Policy and Programs, Project Review and Advancement Division (TPE-31): Provides policy direction, guidance, and training to FTA Regional Offices and project sponsors on the implementation of NEPA and related legislation and environmental requirements, and on the efficient management of the environmental review process. Office of Environmental Policy and Programs, Environmental Technical Analysis Division (TPE-32): Provides policy direction, guidance, and training to FTA Regional Offices and project sponsors on the technical analysis for specific environmental resource areas, including historic preservation and cultural resources; water quality, wetlands and other Clean Water Act issues; transportation conformity and other Clean Air Act issues; threatened and endangered species and habitat, fish and wildlife; noise and vibration; hazardous waste and brownfields; coastal zones and coastal barrier protection; and real property acquisition. In TPE-31 and TPE-32, duties will include interpretation of legislation and statutory language and may include development of innovative tools to expedite reviews under environmental requirements. The ideal candidate for this position is a career professional experienced in applying NEPA and related laws and regulations to surface transportation projects. Experience in NEPA, Section 106, and the Endangered Species Act is strongly desired. Experience working with environmental statutes, regulations, and policies is desirable as well. Candidates should have the skills and experience to work collaboratively and productively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences, manage projects, and handle multiple competing priorities, issues, and projects simultaneously.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance the organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. SELECTIVE SERVICE: Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service. GOVERNMENT TRAVEL CARD: This position involves travel. A government contractor-issued travel card will be issued and must be retained for official business only. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: A background security investigation is required for all selected individuals. Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of the security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to meet these requirements will be grounds for termination. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Applicants may be required to successfully complete a one-year probationary period (unless already completed).