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ENVIRONMENTAL CAREERS OFFER AN
EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO DO SOMETHING
WORTHWHILE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY AND
YOUR COUNTRY.
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IF YOU WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
ENVIRONMENTAL CAREERS AND THE U.S.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY THIS
BROCHURE HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR YOU.
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PRESERVING
OUR FUTURE
TODAY
EPAHiqhliqbb
** In 197-4, the Safe Drinking
Water Act allowed EPA to
establish regulations to limit
the amount of various
substances in water used
for drinking.
The new Clean Air Act
contains provisions tor large
reductions in emissions of
sulfur dioxide and nitrogen
oxides to combat acid rain.
The new national goal for
year 2000 is to reduce SO2
emissions nationwide by
10 million tons.
~ dhr The Resource and Recovery
Act regulates hazardous
wastes so they are properly
treated and do not continue
to spoil our earth's soils.
Work is underway to
reduce municipal solid waste
by 25 percent through
a combination of source
reduction and recycling
measures.
The 1987 Clean Water Act
amendments require certain
industries to "pretreat" their
wrastewater so that toxic
chemicals and other harmful
substances do not enter
sewage systems that were not
designed to treat them.
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The challenges which are before us
in the environmental arena will
require professionals from many,
many different backgrounds. The
increase in environmental aware-
ness is more than a trend, the environment is
an issue continuously gaining importance in
people's lives, politics, science and technolo-
gy. Opportunities for meaningful and
rewarding careers in meeting our environmen-
tal goals will be as diverse as the environment
itself. There will be an expanded range of
opportunities in skilled administrative, profes-
sional, and technical areas generated by
national and state legislation, as well as
grassroots activities. » But where will the
jobs be? What should I study? Is there a need
for special training? The most critical need
will be for scientists and engineers. Scientists
and engineers are instrumental in research
and development; looking at new ways to
address the concerns of how
much of certain toxins are
actually dangerous, develop-
ing innovative technologies
to promote pollution pre-
vention, and exploring the
important issues related to
the interconnectedness of
the biosphere. Scientists and
engineers are also critical to
the development of regulations
based on their research, which will
provide standards for industry, government,
and individuals to maintain and improve our
environment. The growth in opportunities
in environmental law reflect the growing com-
plexities of the regulations and the increased
emphasis on enforcement. Attorneys are
finding the environmental field rich with
opportunity for public service, as well as, pri-
vate sector careers working with industry.
Critical skills in managing the business of the
environment include such occupations as
accountants, economists, writers, educators,
technicians, computer specialists, information
management specialists, and administrative
specialists. From federal job opportunities to
small grassroots organizations there are
needs for talented, dedicated professionals
who can design, implement and enforce
environmentally sound programs.
Environmental careers offer an excellent
opportunity to do something worthwhile.
ENVIRONMENTAL CAREERS
IF YOU
WOULD LIKE MORE
INFORMATION ON WHAT
YOU CAN DO TODAY TO
HELP THE EARTH, PLEASE
REFER TO THE REFERENCES
AT THE END OF THE
BROCHURE.
The need to preserve and protect our earth and its natural
resources is important to you and me. It is important
because we need clean air and water to live healthy lives; we need
to be protected from hazardous and toxic substances; and we need
to find ways to reduce the trash that we create to save our
important land resources for use other than land fills. Many of you
may already be "environmentally conscious" by being part of the
effort to protect our Earth. For example, if you recycle
cans, newspapers, and glass you are participating in
._
an effort to prevent pollution. Individuals will
make a difference by making simple changes in
their day-to-day lives like reducing the use of their
automobile because of harmful emissions from the engine,
reusing materials and recycling. ** The issues and challenges of
protecting and cleaning the environment will also require teams of
professionals to conduct research, develop regulations, provide
on-going education, develop innovative technologies to reduce,
reuse and recycle potential pollutants, and clean-up hazardous
sites. «** If you want to learn more about environmental
careers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
this brochure has been prepared for you. * If you would like
more information on what you can do today to help the Earth,
please refer to the references at the end of the brochure.
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CAREERS IN ENVIRONMENTAL
PUBLIC SERVICE
T
here are many opportunities tor you to serve your
nation and the global population through public
service careers. You could choose to serve your local
community or state, or participate on an international level
with a private voluntary organization like the Sierra Club.
'"* The people who work at the federal level for the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are
dedicated to improving and preserving the quality of
the environment. Our nation's continuing growth and
prosperity depend on our ability to find effective, creative
solutions to environmental problems. Through team
work and scientific discipline, EPA is determined to find
those solutions and to make them work.
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We're a dynamic team of diverse people dedicated to improving and preserving the
quality of the environment. <"» The United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) was founded in December 1970 to consolidate the government's environmental
INTRODUCTION TO EPA. . .
regulatory activities into a single agency. Over the past 20 years, EPA has greatly
expanded its scope and responsibilities in meeting environmental challenges. **
Located in Washington, D.C., EPA headquarters is divided into twelve offices: Office
of the Administrator; Office of Water; Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response;
Office of Air and Radiation; Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances;
Office of Research and Development; Office of Administration and Resources
Management; Office of Enforcement; Office of General Counsel; Office of Policy, "
Planning and Evaluation; Office of International Activities; Office of Inspector
General. These offices develop environmental policies, set standards, manage complex
research and development programs, and develop regulations for pesticides, toxic
substances, hazardous wastes, air, radiation and water. In addition, every EPA
program office is developing new technologies designed to prevent pollution. ^» There
are also ten Regional Offices which administer EPA programs and provide technical
assistance to state, local and tribal governments. World-class research and development
in all the environmental disciplines is carried out in our 20 research facilities. <"* At last
count, EPA employed almost 19,000 and the numbers continue to grow.
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Treatment and disposal
of waste are not
enough; po/iutants must
be prevented from being
generated in the first
place. We have learned
the inherent limitations
of treating and burying
waste. A problem
solved in one pan of the
environment may
become a neu' problem
in another part. We
must curtail pollution
closer to its point of
origin so that it is not
transferred from place
to place.
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SETTING STANDARDS EPA is responsible for setting standards that help
protect the public's health and welfare. Whether
this involves restricting pesticide use or setting
emission levels for automobiles, EPA is taking
steps to ensure a cleaner future.
ENFORCEMENT
AND MONITORING
TRENDS
FOR THE
FUTURE
T
he Agency's philosophy has been to encourage voluntary compliance by
private industry and communities, and ensure that state, local and tribal
governments perform enforcement activities necessary to meet EPA standards.
Various types of monitoring processes and activities exist within EPA. Some are
broadly based monitoring programs that determine whether pollution levels and
emissions are increasing or decreasing. Other methods of evaluation
determine if the various abatement programs developed by EPA
V EPA's 20 year efforts
toward a cleaner environment
and improved human health have
been vigorous. Worldwide, the belief that industry cannot
endure the restrictions of environmental controls, is being
replaced by an awareness of industry's role in nurturing the
environment. * Protecting the planet is a huge commitment
and to be successful it will take everyone working together.
Complementing EPA's efforts have been state, tribal and local
governments, citizen's environmental organizations, and
countless individuals, many of whom have been working on
pollution control for years. EPA has developed five new themes
which reflect future directions for ensuring a cleaner environ-
ment: pollution prevention, voluntary action, reducing risks,
economic incentives, protecting natural resources. It's time to
develop a new pattern of environmental management
working with nature.
and state and local governments are as
effective as they should be.
-------
T
hese positions are the most
numerous at EPA. In addition,
there are a wide variety of other
professionals that support
the Agency's mission
such as writers, contract
IF YOU
WOULD LIKE MORE
INFORMATION ON WHAT
YOU CAN DO TODAY TO
HELP THE EARTH, PLEASE
REFER TO THE REFERENCES
Environmental scientists directly protect the environment, manage
projects, and develop policies and regulations. Some also perform ecolog-
ical research or testing so the EPA will have the reliable scientific data it
f^-mt-m^t-rtf-rf needs to make decisions. Many environmental
SCIEN1 I5T5
scientists become EPA generalists, as non-
supervisory contributors, program managers, or supervisors. ;* All
physical and biological science professionals have at least a bachelor's
degree in their field, and many doing research in EPA laboratories have
doctoral degrees. Project management experience, communication skills,
skills in dealing with people, and knowledge of environmental laws and
regulations are all helpful.
Engineers work throughout the EPA, carrying r & f* ».i C C D C
out research, regulation, and compliance
functions. Many engineers go beyond "hands on" engineering.
They may, for example, develop policy, write regulations to implement
legislation, issue permits, or admin- ister regulations. Some engineers are
experts on particular technologies, industries, or pollutants, advising the
public, EPA offices and other governments. * EPA engineers look at more
than engineering issues. They often work on multi-disciplinary teams
and enjoy the breadth of outlook this provides. A bachelor's
degree or greater will qualify you for an entry level position.
We particularly seek individuals with majors in civil, chemi-
cal, mining, geological and environmental engineering.
u Attorneys at EPA provide an invaluable service to
AT THE END OF THE
BROCHURE.
specialists, auditors and
accountants, budget analysts, financial
specialists and attorneys.
the public by being part of the teams which develop
regulations consistent with legislation, serve as legal advisers
in the development of policy, assist in resolving legal, technical,
and enforcement issues, and serve as EPA s ^VTTORNE
trial staff before administrative tribunals. To do this, EPA lawyers must
become familiar with complex areas of environmental science, public-
health, or the technology of specific types of pollution control. Attorneys
are also important to administrative business at EPA, such as in the area
of contract management. Law school graduates are eligible for appoint-
ment to attorney positions.
; |^|««i p Q |L| » p |^| Environmental Protection Specialists
(EPS) perform a wide variety of
PROTECTION SPECIALISTS duties in EPA
The work of
an EPS often overlaps with the work of professional engineering and
scientific positions. » An EPS in a region often oversees the environ-
mental plans and activities of state and local municipalities. The EPS
gives technical guidance and helps develop sound plans and
programs. EPS's conduct research related to environmental
problems and they may develop environmental protection regula-
tions, policies, and guidance. Oral communication skills are necessary
when negotiating and coordinating complex environmental issues. Most
EPS have strong research and analytical abilities.
-------
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
N,
lational commitment to higher education is demonstrated by the many finan-
cial assistance programs that are available to students in this country. The door to
greater career opportunity is opening wider than ever before to many who have
been excluded in the past, such as women, Hispanics, African-Americans, Native
Americans, people with disabilities and others. In setting career goals, students
should keep in mind the many programs designed to help them finance their edu-
cation. » Millions of students receive financial assistance every year. Any
student who is not sure where to find help should consult teachers, guidance
counselors, libraries and university student aid
offices. * Some programs are designed
specifically for minority students,
others are designed for stu-
dents from low-income
families. Some programs
have been developed
for those interested in
certain fields of study,
such as engineering.
» Besides federal
programs, there are
scholarship programs
maintained at individ-
ual universities, as well
as programs operated by
businesses and private
foundations. Some of the fed-
eral programs worth looking into
are developed by the U.S. Office of
Education, the National Science Foundation
receive work experience at EPA facilities. and the U.S. Department of Energy. » Above
all, don't wait. There are so many options for you
Through cooperative education, internships, and volunteer oppor- to consider that it may take some time but is
well worth the effort.
tunities you may get a first hand look at working in the public
_
service. Please refer to our EPA offices and other brochures for
STUDENT WO
There are a number
ot programs designed
especially for students to
more information.
-------
T
here are other brochures and pamphlets available to those interested in
pursuing careers with the EPA. If you have not already received the
information you need, please call your nearest EPA office and ask for the Human
Resources Office. For information on how to help and what to look for
call or write EPA's Public Information Center (202) 260-2080, PM
21 IB, 401 M Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20460.
SOURCES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CAREER INFORMATION
Environmental
Newsletters
Environmental
Opportunities
Box 670
Walpole, NH 03608
Job-Scan
The Student Conservation
Association., Inc.
P.O. Box 550
Charleston, NH 03603
The Job Seeker
Rt. 2, Box 16
Warrens, Wl 54666
The Nature People
Career Services
P.O. Box 98
Warrens, Wl 54666
Environmental Careers
Circulation Dept
760 Whalers Way
Suite 100-A
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Environmental
Periodicals
Resource Recycling
P.O. Box 10540
Portland, OR 97210-9893
Biocycle
Journal of Waste Recycling
Emmaus, PA 18049
Buzzworm
P.O. Box 6853
Syracuse, NY 13217-7930
E: The Environmental
Magazine
P.O. Box 6667
Syracuse, NY 13217-7934
Garbage
P.O. Box 51647
Boulder, CO 80321-1647
Environmental
References
The Complete Guide to
Environmental Careers
Island Press
Box 7, Dept. 4CC
Covelo, CA 95428
* EPA HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICES
EPA Headquarters
401 M Street, SW
Room 3020
Washington, DC 20460
202 260-3266
Regional Offices
EPA Region 1
JFK Office Building
Boston, MA 02203
617 565-3719
EPA Region 2
26 Federal Plaza
New York, NY 10278
212 264-0016
EPA Region 3
841 Chestnut Street
8th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215 597-8922
EPA Region 4
345 Courtland Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30365
404 347-3486
EPA Region 5
77 West Jackson Blvd
(MP-4J)
Chicago, IL 60604
312 353-2026
EPA Region 6
1445 Ross Avenue
(6M-HP) 12th Floor
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
214 655-6560
EPA Region 7
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
913 551-7041
EPA Region 8
999 18th Street
Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2405
303 293-1487
Earth First
P.O. Box 5871
Tucson, AZ 85703
602 622-1371
Environmental Action (EA)
1525 New Hampshire Ave.
NW
Friends of the Earth
21 8 D Street, SE
Washington DC 20003
202 544-2600
WorldWatch
P.O. Box 6991
Syracuse, NY 1321 7-9942
Environmental
Organizations
Citizens for a Better
Environment
(Pollution Control)
33 E. Congress
Suite 523
Chicago, IL 60605
312 939-1530
Washington D.C. 20031
202 745-4870
Friends of the Earth
21 80 Street, SE
Washington DC 20003
202 544-2600
^l>
National Clean Air
Coalition (NCAC)
801 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
3rd Rcor
Washington DC 20003
202 543-8200
National Energy Foundation
(Environmental Education)
5160 Wiley Post Way
Suite 200
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
801 539-1406
Sierra Club
730 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415 776-2211
EPA does not necessarily endorse these publications.
This list is provided as a sample of available information
EPA Region 9
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
415 744-1300
EPA Region 10
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
206 553-2959
Research and
Dsvelopment
Laboratories
EPA
MD-29
Research Triangle Park, NC
27711
919 541-4268
EPA
26 W Martin Luther King Dr
Cincinnati, OH 45268
513 569-7812
EPA
P.O. Box 98516
Las Vegas, NV 89193-8516
702 798-2401
Also serves labs in:
Ada, OK
Athens, GA
Corvallis, OR
Duluth, MN
Edison, NJ
Grosse lie, Ml
Gulf Breeze, FLA
Narragansett, Rl
Newport, OR
Warrenton, VA
Field Offices
EPA
Building 53
Box 25227(DFC)
Denver, CO 80225
303 236-5114
EPA
2526 Plymouth Road
Ann Arbor, Ml 48105
313 668-4220
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Another way to help our environment
pass these materials on to another interested environmentalist.
Reuse, Recycle, Restore.
i i '
ERA recognizes the value of
lan Resources
edicated to
c force. To this end, EPA's
olicy is to provide equal
employment opportunity for
everyone; to prohibit
discrimination in employment
because of race, color,
religion, sex, age, national
origin, or disability; and to
promote the full realization
of equal employment
opportunities on the basis of
merit and fitness through
a continuing affirmative
employment program.
-------
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
National Recruitment
Program (PM 224)
Washington DC 20460
EPA210-K92-010
August 1992
Morg
Abend
printed on recycled paper
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