Careers and Internships
Environmental Careers Program (ECP)
The Environmental Careers Program for 2012 is currently under review. EPA has not yet determined whether we will be able to offer it this year. Please check back to this page for updated information.
What is the Environmental Careers Program?
EPA's Environmental Careers Program, or ECP (ECP) is a comprehensive, entry-level, professional, full-time employment and career development program. As a program participant, you will join an intensive two-year program to help you "jump-start" your career and develop your potential for future advancement within the agency. If selected, you will be an EPA employee, not an intern or fellow. We anticipate hiring approximately 25 to 30 ECP employees each year.
Attracting and retaining top-notch employees is crucial to the success of EPA. To foster both their personal and professional growth, ECPs participate in a two-year EPA familiarization and career development program. Key components of the program are:
An orientation conference held in Washington, DC, to familiarize new ECP participants with the agency;
Multiple rotational assignments, including an opportunity for a two-month rotation to a different geographic location;
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Individual development plans to serve as road maps for professional and personal development during the program and beyond;
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Site visits and group project to introduce the "hands-on" work of the Agency, such as research, monitoring, environmental clean-up, community involvement, compliance, and prevention;
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A graduation conference, featuring team training and environmental studies; and
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On-going networking activities.
What kind of people are good candidates for the ECP?
The ECP seeks graduates from bachelor's degree programs or higher in a variety of academic majors, including, but not limited to:
- Biological Sciences and Ecology
- Chemistry and Physical Sciences
- Environmental Engineering
- Financial Management
- Public and Environmental Policy
- Business
- Computer Science
- Environmental Studies
- International Studies
- Public Administration
In addition, applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:
- Academic achievement
- Leadership potential and teamwork skills
- Good citizenship and commitment to a career in public service
- Interests in environmental issues
- Solid written and verbal communication skills
- U.S. citizenship (required)
How much are ECP participants paid?
Candidates selected to complete the ECP will be offered professional positions at the GS - 7 or 9 Grade level
As an ECP participant, where can I work?
Participating EPA offices are usually located at EPA headquarters or at our Regional office locations.
As an ECP participant, what benefits will I receive?
ECPs enjoy a comprehensive federal compensation packagethat includes health and life insurance, federal retirement program, sick and annual leave, and a Thrift Savings Plan (federal 401K plan). Quality of work life programs such as career and personal development, flexible work hours, alternative work schedules, and tuition assistance may also be available. Learn more about employment benefits at EPA.
How do I apply for an ECP position?
The Environmental Careers Program for 2012 is currently under review. EPA has not yet determined whether we will be able to offer it this year. Please check back to this page for updated information.
Every March and April, participating EPA offices will publish their own specific ECP job announcements on USAJobs. Visit the USAJobs EPA/ECP jobs page during this time frame and apply for any specific job announcement that fits your background and interest. Please note that a variety of ECP announcements may open and close during this time frame, so you may need to check this page several time during March and April.
Some EPA offices may also recruit at local job fairs.