Educational OpportunitiesNumerous opportunities are available within the Environmental Protection Agency for students to gain vital career experience while contributing to the mission of protecting human health and safeguarding the environment. Internships, fellowships and other opportunities are available in Washington, DC, laboratories, and at regional EPA locations nationwide. Fellowships
Student Programs
FellowshipsNational Network for Environmental Management
Studies (NNEMS) NNEMS fellows receive a stipend at a level determined by the student's level of education and the duration and location of the research project. Fellowships are offered to undergraduate and graduate students. Students must meet certain eligibility criteria. The application deadline for the NNEMS Program is in the winter of each year with all projects beginning the following summer. Complete application information and materials can be obtained in the Career Service Center (or equivalent) of colleges and universities; on the NNEMS Website; by writing to: Sheri Jojokian, NNEMS Program, US EPA (1704A), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20460; or by calling 1-800-358-8769. Science to Achieve Results (STAR)
Graduate Fellowships Master's level students may receive support for a maximum of two years. Doctoral students may be supported for a maximum of three years with funding available, under certain circumstances, over a period of four years. The application period starts in the summer and remains open for 3 months. For more information contact Stephanie Willett, USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Center for Environmental Research or visit www.epa.gov/ncer/fellow. Greater Research Opportunities
(GRO) Graduate Fellowships Master's level students may receive support for a maximum of two years. Doctoral students may be supported for a maximum of three years with funding available, under certain circumstances, over a period of four years. The application period starts in the summer and remains open for 3 months. For more information contact Stephanie Willett, USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Center for Environmental Research or visit www.epa.gov/ncer/fellow. Greater Research
Opportunities (GRO) Undergraduate Fellowships Eligible students will receive support for their junior and senior years of undergraduate study and for an internship at an EPA facility during the summer between their junior and senior years. For more information contact Georgette
Boddie, USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Center
for Environmental Research or visit www.epa.gov/ncer/fellow. Public Health Fellowships American Association for the Advancement
of Science (AAAS) Fellowships
Student ProgramsStudent Services Contractor Student Career Experience Program (SCEP)
U.S. citizenship is required to be considered for a possible conversion to permanent employment. OECA Student Career Experience Program
(SCEP)
Student Environmental Associate Program and
Diversity Initiative The Environmental Careers Organization Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP)
This program's intent is to enable Native Americans to work for the environmental protection of tribal lands by assisting them in their pursuit of environmental science degrees. Full-time junior, senior, and graduate students majoring in an environmental discipline are eligible to compete for the scholarships. Students compete based on grade-point average, knowledge of Indian culture, commitment to environmental protection, character and leadership ability, level of study, and work experience. EPA works with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)to select the scholarship winners. Students wishing to apply should do so through AISES, which has chapters on many college campuses and may be contacted at 1630 30th Street, Suite 301, Boulder, CO 80301 or by calling (303) 939-0023. Applications must be postmarked by June 15 of each year. Resident Research Associate Program SCHOLARSHIPSMarshall Scholarship |
NASA's Earth Science Education CatalogueNASA's Earth Science Education Program offers a diverse array of programs and resources for formal classroom instruction, informal education, and professional and workforce development. The complete listing of Earth Science education programs, products and resources, along with NASA-wide resources for educators, is provided in this online catalog. |
DOE Atmospheric EducationThe goal of the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program's Education and Outreach Program is to develop basic science awareness and increase critical thinking skills focusing on environmental science and climate change for K-12 students. In addition, the program supports relationship building between teachers, students, scientists, and communities. |
DOE Global Change Education ProgramThe U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Biological and Environmental Research (BER) has established the Global Change Education Program (GCEP) to promote undergraduate and graduate training in support of the Department's global change research activities. |
NASA Science Education PageNASA's Science Education Program creates products using NASA's results in Earth-Sun system science, solar system research, universe exploration, and the development of new technologies to support learning. The program sponsors educational activities at all levels of formal and informal education to provide opportunities for learners to investigate their world and their universe using unique NASA resources. |
The U.S. Geological Survey and Science EducationThe U.S. Geological Survey provides scientific information intended to help educate the public about natural resources, natural hazards, geospatial data, and issues that affect our quality of life. Discover selected online resources, including lessons, data, maps, and more, to support teaching, learning, education (K-12), and university-level inquiry and research. |
GCRIO: Environmental Education ResourcesThis site provides Environmental Education and Outreach materials from the US Global Change Research Information Office (GCRIO). |
NASA Office EducationResources for teachers and students on a wide range of topics, including Earth sciences. |
DOE Fossil Energy-Related Education MaterialsMaterials for teachers and students on fossil energy sources, including online energy lessons. |
NOAA Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research Education PageLinks to general information, climate information, ocean and Great Lakes information, and more for teachers and students. |
NOAA's Education PageGateway to all of NOAA's educational pages for students and teachers on Earth sciences. |
National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Education ProgramsNREL offers K-12 energy-related educational activities, teacher resources and programs, and internship and graduate study opportunities. |
DOE: Resources for EducatorsThe U.S. Department of Energy's education programs help ensure an adequate supply of scientists, engineers and technicians for energy-related research, production activities, and the transfer of technology. The advancement of science, mathematics and technology education is an essential part of DOE's mission. The links on this page provide information on age-grade and subject matter resources for "energy" to help point students along the path of learning. |
EPA Office of Environmental EducationInformation on training, grants, partnerships, tools, and more. |
EPA Teaching CenterGeneral environmental education resources for classroom and other teachers. |
NOAA Climate Program OfficeCreated in October 2005, the Climate Program Office incorporates the Office of Global Programs, the Arctic Research Office, the Climate Observations and Services Program, and coordinates climate activities across NOAA. The CPO focuses on developing a broader user community for climate products and services, provides a focal point for climate activities within NOAA, leads NOAA climate education and outreach activities, and coordinates international climate activities. |
NOAA Educational MaterialsThe Climate Prediction Center produces educational materials to help people better understand the role of the climate system in our lives and how to use climate forecasts. |
NOAA: Climate Change and Our PlanetLinks to educational climate change resources for young (K-5) and older students. |
Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE)GLOBE is a worldwide network of students, teachers, and scientists working together to study and understand the global environment. Students and teachers from over 6,500 schools in more than 80 countries are working with research scientists to learn more about our planet. GLOBE students make environmental observations at or near their schools and report their data through the Internet. Scientists use GLOBE data in their research and provide feedback to the students to enrich their science education. |
NOAA: CLIMGRAPH Educational Graphics on Global Climate Change and the Greenhouse EffectMore than 50 educational graphics in PDF format on climate, greenhouse gases, the greenhouse effect, and climate change. |
EducatorsThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for educators concerned with this issue. |
Financial Assistance - TexasThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
Health ProfessionalsThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for health professionals and individuals interested in the link between human health and climate change. |
Financial Assistance - TennesseeThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
| The EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for meteorologists and individuals concerned with the linkages between climate and weather. |
| The EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by
climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for wildlife advocates concerned with this issue. |
EPA GrantsThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
Coastal ResidentsThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. |
Insurance IndustryThe EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. |
A Course of Action for State and Local GovernmentsThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This introductory page describes a course for and provides examples of state and local actions in the area of climate change. |
IndustryThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for industry concerned with this issue. |
Reports, Papers, and PresentationsThe EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. The following reports and presentations discuss different aspects of the link between climate change and municipal solid waste. |
What is the Link?The EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. Here are answers to some common questions about global climate change, and about actions that are being taken and information that is available regarding climate change and solid waste management. |
Waste ManagementThe EPA Global Warming Site: Publications - Waste Management section presents publications, information sheets, brochures, and other media focused on climate change and waste management. |
| Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Waste |
US Climate Action Report (U.S. Department of State, May 2002) The United States of America's Third National Communication Under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change |
Department of TransportationThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
Anticipatory Planning for Sea-Level Rise Along the Coast of Maine1995 report constitutes Maine's first systematic assessment of its vulnerability to a change in shoreline position as a result of accelerated sea-level rise associated with global climate change. The report was prepared as a State-University cooperative project by the Marine Law Institute of the University of Maine School of Law, the Maine Geological Survey, and the Maine State Planning Office. Preparation of the report was funded by a grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. |
Events Calendar - Schedule and DescriptionsThe EPA Global Warming Site Calendar focuses on current events related to global warming or climate change. The section features a schedule and description of upcoming events and links to related sites. |
Anticipatory Planning for Sea-Level Rise Along the Coast of Maine1995 report constitutes Maine's first systematic assessment of its vulnerability to a change in shoreline position as a result of accelerated sea-level rise associated with global climate change. The report was prepared as a State-University cooperative project by the Marine Law Institute of the University of Maine School of Law, the Maine Geological Survey, and the Maine State Planning Office. Preparation of the report was funded by a grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. |
Financial Assistance - IndianaThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
Industry ActionsThe EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. |
Public OfficialsThe EPA Global Warming Site - Visitor Center focuses on the impacts made by climate change of interest to particular groups and the actions that are being taken to stem those impacts. This is the introductory page for public decision makers concerned with this issue. |
Climate and Waste ProjectsThe EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. EPA has funded state and local climate projects around the country that demonstrate innovative waste reduction approaches and associated greenhouse gas emission reductions. |
Full Text of Framework Convention on Climate ChangeThe EPA Global Warming Site: Reference Publications includes documents and guidance central to climate change and global warming issues. The Framework Convention on Climate Change is the landmark international treaty unveiled at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (the Rio Summit), in June 1992. This is the complete Convention text. |
Department of EnergyThe EPA Global Warming Site: Financial Assistance section provides information on financial assistance available for greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. |
Strategies for Adaption to Sea Level Rise
This 1990 IPCC report represents the first survey on a global scale of adaptive options for coastal areas in response to a possible acceleration of sea level rise and the implications of options. |
Action PlansEPA Global Warming Site: State climate change action plans |
Strategies for Adaption to Sea Level Rise
This 1990 IPCC report represents the first survey on a global scale of adaptive options for coastal areas in response to a possible acceleration of sea level rise and the implications of options. |
| Greenhouse Effect, Sea Level Rise, and Land Use |
| Greenhouse Effect, Sea Level Rise, and Land Use |
Legislative InitiativesThe EPA Global Warming Site: Actions section focuses on actions and activities conducted or supported by governments, corporations, small businesses, and individuals that help address global warming issues. |
The Environmental Program of the GSA assists agencies in complying with environmental initiatives and meeting goals through contractors offering: Note: In order to qualify to perform recycling and disposal services under this SIN, the offeror is required to provide the following documentation: Note: This effort does NOT include handling/disposal and/or transportation of nuclear waste. Note: Services of an Architect-Engineering nature as set forth in FAR Part 36 are specifically excluded. Before you can go to an interview for a Green Collar Job, or even mail out a resume, you need to find companies (with job openings) where you are interested in working. Traditional methods of finding prospective employers is to look at the classified ads in the newspapers, look through job-hunting magazines and periodicals, or even attend Green Collar Career-Fairs. Modern methods for finding jobs involve the internet, and sites such as this one and others like careerbuilder.com and monster.com. Study the prospective employer. Research for information about the employer's policies, scope of operations, and work culture. Find out what skills are in demand, and can get you hired. Find out what salaries are paid to people in the position, which you have applied for. This information helps in negotiations at a later stage. Many professional websites also have lists of Job openings. It is always preferable to apply to a specific job. Submitting a resume that is not in response to a specific job opening is known as cold submitting, and has a low chance of success. Once you find the specific job opening (or openings) that you are interested in applying for, copy down the relevant information: You are going to need it to write an effective cover letter, and to focus your resume. After reviewing your research, create questions to ask your prospective employer. These questions will display your initiative and your interest in the company. Eighty percent of available jobs are never advertised, and over half of all employees get their jobs through networking, according to BH Careers International. Therefore, the people you know -friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances, teachers, and former coworkers - are some of the most effective resources for your job search. The network of people that you know and the people that they know can lead to information about specific job openings that are not publicly posted. To develop new contacts, join student, community, or professional organizations. Career fairs are great places to submit resumes, talk to company representatives, and to gather valuable contact information. However, because of the nature of career fairs, it can be difficult to provide a focused resume and cover letter to every company in attendance. Oftentimes, you are forced to simply create a generic resume that you will hand to every company. Also, representatives at career fairs receive many resumes, and many applications, and often times the representatives don't have the time to carefully read each one. If your resume doesn't stand out from the pile immediately (and you shouldnt suspect that it will), then you may never hear back from the company. The most important job that you can do at a job fair is to gather contact information for the human resources personel at the target company. After the job fair is over, you should create a focused resume and cover letter specifically for that company, and mail (or email) those materials directly to the HR department. This will ensure that your resume stands out from the crowd, and that the HR people are forced to look at your resume closely, after the career fair has ended. Eighty percent of available jobs are never advertised, and over half of all employees get their jobs through networking, according to BH Careers International. Therefore, the people you knowÑfriends, family, neighbors, acquaintances, teachers, and former coworkersÑare some of the most effective resources for your job search. The network of people that you know and the people that they know can lead to information about specific job openings that are not publicly posted. To develop new contacts, join student, community, or professional organizations. School career planning and placement offices. High school and college placement offices help their students and alumni find jobs. They allow recruiters to use their facilities for interviews or career fairs. Placement offices usually have a list of part-time, temporary, and summer jobs offered on campus. They also may have lists of jobs for regional, nonprofit, and government organizations. In addition to linking you to potential employers, career planning offices usually provide career counseling, career testing, and job search advice. Some have career resource libraries; host workshops on job search strategy, rsum writing, letter writing, and effective interviewing; critique drafts of rsums; conduct mock interviews; and sponsor job fairs. Through your library and Internet research, develop a list of potential employers in your desired career field. Employer Web sites often contain lists of job openings. Web sites and business directories can provide you with information on how to apply for a position or whom to contact. Even if no open positions are posted, do not hesitate to contact the employer and the relevant department. Set up an interview with someone working in the same area in which you wish to work. Ask them how they got started, what they like and dislike about the work, what type of qualifications are necessary for the job, and what type of personality succeeds in that position. Even if they don't have a position available, they may be able to put you in contact with other people who might hire you, and they can keep you in mind if a position opens up. Make sure to send them your rsum and a cover letter. If you are able to obtain an interview, be sure to send a thank-you note. Directly contacting employers is one of the most successful means of job hunting. The "Help Wanted" ads in newspapers list numerous jobs. You should realize, however, that many other job openings are not listed, and that the classified ads sometimes do not give all of the important information. They may offer little or no description of the job, working conditions, or pay. Some ads do not identify the employer. They may simply give a post office box to which you can mail your rsum, making follow-up inquiries very difficult. Some ads offer out-of-town jobs; others advertise employment agencies rather than actual employment opportunities. When using classified ads, keep the following in mind: The Internet is an invaluable resource. Use it to find advice on conducting your job search more effectively; to search for a job; to research prospective employers; and to communicate with people who can help you with your job search. No single Web site will contain all the information available on employment or career opportunities, so in addition to the Web sites listed below, use a search engine to find what you need. The different types of sites that may be useful include general career advice sites, job search sites, company Web sites, trade and professional association Web sites, and forums. Internet forums, also called message boards, are online discussion groups where anyone may post and read messages. Use forums specific to your profession or to career-related topics to post questions or messages and to read about other peoples' job searches or career experiences. In job databases, remember that job listings may be posted by field or discipline, so begin your search using keywords. Some Web sites provide national or local classified listings and allow job seekers to post their rsums online. When searching employment databases on the Internet, it usually is possible to send your rsum to an employer by e-mail or to post it online. CareerOneStop is a database consisting of three separate career resource tools. It can be accessed on the Internet at: http://www.CareerOneStop.org, or by telephone at: (877) 348-0502. Alternatively, each resource tool can be accessed directly at its own Internet address. America's Job Bank allows you to search through a database of more than 1 million jobs nationwide, create and post your rsum online, and set up an automated job search. The database contains a wide range of mostly full-time private sector jobs that are available all over the country. Job seekers can access America's Job Bank at: http://www.ajb.org. America's Career InfoNet provides information on educational, licensing, and certification requirements for different occupations by State. It also provides information on wages, cost of living, and employment trends, and helps job seekers identify their skills and write rsums and cover letters. Job seekers can access America's Career InfoNet at: http://www.acinet.org. America's Service Locator provides listings of local employment service offices which help job seekers find jobs and help employers find qualified workers at no cost to either. At the State employment service office, an interviewer will determine if you are "job ready" or if you need help from counseling and testing services to assess your occupational aptitudes and interests and to help you choose and prepare for a career. After you are "job ready," you may examine available job listings and select openings that interest you. A staff member can then describe the job openings in detail and arrange for interviews with prospective employers. Job seekers can access America's Service Locator at: http://www.servicelocator.org. A list of offices is also in the State government telephone listings under "Job Service" or "Employment." Using Internet Resources to Plan your Future, a U.S. Department of Labor publication, offers advice on organizing your Internet job search. It is primarily intended to provide instruction for job seekers on how to use the Internet to their best advantage, but recruiters and other career service industry professionals will find information here to help them also. How to Use the Internet in your Job Search; The Job Search Process; and the Career-Related Pages, other U.S. Department of Labor Internet publications, each discusses specific steps that job seekers can follow to identify employment opportunities. Included are daily tips and hints, plus a large database of links and job search engines. Check with your State employment service office, or order a copy of these and other publications from the U.S. Government Printing Office's Superintendent of Documents. Telephone: (202) 512-1800. Internet: http://bookstore.gpo.gov or http://www.doleta.gov. The State employment service, sometimes called the Job Service, operates in coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration. Local offices, found nationwide, help job seekers to find jobs and help employers to find qualified workers at no cost to either. To find the office nearest you, look in the State government telephone listings under "Job Service" or "Employment." Job matching and referral. At the State employment service office, an interviewer will determine if you are "job ready" or if you need help from counseling and testing services to assess your occupational aptitudes and interests and to help you choose and prepare for a career. After you are "job ready," you may examine available job listings and select openings that interest you. A staff member can then describe the job openings in detail and arrange for interviews with prospective employers. Services for special groups. By law, veterans are entitled to priority for job placement at State employment service centers. If you are a veteran, a veterans' employment representative can inform you of available assistance and help you to deal with problems. State employment service offices refer people to opportunities available under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998. WIA reforms Federal employment, adult education, and vocational rehabilitation programs to create an integrated, "one-stop" system of workforce investment and education activities for adults and youths. Services are provided to employers and job seekers, including adults, dislocated workers, and youths. WIA's primary purpose is to increase the employment, retention, skills, and earnings of participants. These programs help to prepare people to participate in the State's workforce, increase their employment and earnings potential, improve their educational and occupational skills, and reduce their dependency on welfare, which will improve the quality of the workforce and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the Nation's economy. We have more information on these services in the appendix. Information on obtaining a position with the Federal Government is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) through USAJOBS, the Federal Government's official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not tollfree, and charges may result. Many professions have associations that offer employment information, including career planning, educational programs, job listings, and job placement. To use these services, associations usually require that you be a member; information can be obtained directly from an association through the Internet, by telephone, or by mail. Labor unions provide various employment services to members, including apprenticeship programs that teach a specific trade or skill. Contact the appropriate labor union or State apprenticeship council for more information. Private employment agencies and career consultants. These agencies can be helpful, but they may charge you for their services. Most operate on a commission basis, with the fee dependent upon a percentage of the salary paid to a successful applicant. You or the hiring company will pay the fee. Find out the exact cost and who is responsible for paying associated fees before using the service. Although employment agencies can help you save time and contact employers who otherwise might be difficult to locate, the costs may outweigh the benefits if you are responsible for the fee. Contacting employers directly often will generate the same type of leads that a private employment agency will provide. Consider any guarantees that the agency offers when determining if the service is worth the cost. Many nonprofit organizations, including religious institutions and vocational rehabilitation agencies, offer counseling, career development, and job placement services, generally targeted to a particular group, such as women, youths, minorities, ex-offenders, or older workers. High school and college placement offices help their students and alumni find jobs. They allow recruiters to use their facilities for interviews or career fairs. Placement offices usually have a list of part-time, temporary, and summer jobs offered on campus. They also may have lists of jobs for regional, nonprofit, and government organizations. In addition to linking you to potential employers, career planning offices usually provide career counseling, career testing, and job search advice. Some have career resource libraries; host workshops on job search strategy, resume writing, letter writing, and effective interviewing; critique drafts of resumes; conduct mock interviews; and sponsor job fairs. The Internet is an invaluable resource. Use it to find advice on conducting your job search more effectively; to search for a job; to research prospective employers; and to communicate with people who can help you with your job search. No single Web site will contain all the information available on employment or career opportunities, so in addition to the Web sites listed below, use a search engine to find what you need. The different types of sites that may be useful include general career advice sites, job search sites, company Web sites, trade and professional association Web sites, and forums. Internet forums, also called message boards, are online discussion groups where anyone may post and read messages. Use forums specific to your profession or to career-related topics to post questions or messages and to read about other peoples' job searches or career experiences. In job databases, remember that job listings may be posted by field or discipline, so begin your search using keywords. Some Web sites provide national or local classified listings and allow job seekers to post their resumes online. When searching employment databases on the Internet, it usually is possible to send your resume to an employer by e-mail or to post it online. CareerOneStop is a database consisting of three separate career resource tools. It can be accessed on the Internet at: http://www.CareerOneStop.org, or by telephone at: (877) 348-0502. Alternatively, each resource tool can be accessed directly at its own Internet address. America's Job Bank allows you to search through a database of more than 1 million jobs nationwide, create and post your resume online, and set up an automated job search. The database contains a wide range of mostly full-time private sector jobs that are available all over the country. Job seekers can access America's Job Bank at: http://www.ajb.org. America's Career InfoNet provides information on educational, licensing, and certification requirements for different occupations by State. It also provides information on wages, cost of living, and employment trends, and helps job seekers identify their skills and write resumes and cover letters. Job seekers can access America's Career InfoNet at: http://www.acinet.org. America's Service Locator provides listings of local employment service offices which help job seekers find jobs and help employers find qualified workers at no cost to either. At the State employment service office, an interviewer will determine if you are "job ready" or if you need help from counseling and testing services to assess your occupational aptitudes and interests and to help you choose and prepare for a career. After you are "job ready," you may examine available job listings and select openings that interest you. A staff member can then describe the job openings in detail and arrange for interviews with prospective employers. Job seekers can access America's Service Locator at: http://www.servicelocator.org. A list of offices is also in the State government telephone listings under "Job Service" or "Employment." Using Internet Resources to Plan your Future, a U.S. Department of Labor publication, offers advice on organizing your Internet job search. It is primarily intended to provide instruction for job seekers on how to use the Internet to their best advantage, but recruiters and other career service industry professionals will find information here to help them also. How to Use the Internet in your Job Search; The Job Search Process; and the Career-Related Pages, other U.S. Department of Labor Internet publications, each discusses specific steps that job seekers can follow to identify employment opportunities. Included are daily tips and hints, plus a large database of links and job search engines. Check with your State employment service office, or order a copy of these and other publications from the U.S. Government Printing Office's Superintendent of Documents. Telephone: (202) 512-1800. Internet: http://bookstore.gpo.gov or http://www.doleta.gov. Information on obtaining a position with the Federal Government is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) through USAJOBS, the Federal Government's official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not tollfree, and charges may result. Many professions have associations that offer employment information, including career planning, educational programs, job listings, and job placement. To use these services, associations usually require that you be a member; information can be obtained directly from an association through the Internet, by telephone, or by mail. Labor unions provide various employment services to members, including apprenticeship programs that teach a specific trade or skill. Contact the appropriate labor union or State apprenticeship council for more information. These agencies can be helpful, but they may charge you for their services. Most operate on a commission basis, with the fee dependent upon a percentage of the salary paid to a successful applicant. You or the hiring company will pay the fee. Find out the exact cost and who is responsible for paying associated fees before using the service. Although employment agencies can help you save time and contact employers who otherwise might be difficult to locate, the costs may outweigh the benefits if you are responsible for the fee. Contacting employers directly often will generate the same type of leads that a private employment agency will provide. Consider any guarantees that the agency offers when determining if the service is worth the cost. Many nonprofit organizations, including religious institutions and vocational rehabilitation agencies, offer counseling, career development, and job placement services, generally targeted to a particular group, such as women, youths, minorities, ex-offenders, or older workers. The State employment service, sometimes called the Job Service, operates in coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration. Local offices, found nationwide, help job seekers to find jobs and help employers to find qualified workers at no cost to either. To find the office nearest you, look in the State government telephone listings under "Job Service" or "Employment." Job matching and referral. At the State employment service office, an interviewer will determine if you are "job ready" or if you need help from counseling and testing services to assess your occupational aptitudes and interests and to help you choose and prepare for a career. After you are "job ready," you may examine available job listings and select openings that interest you. A staff member can then describe the job openings in detail and arrange for interviews with prospective employers. Services for special groups. By law, veterans are entitled to priority for job placement at State employment service centers. If you are a veteran, a veterans' employment representative can inform you of available assistance and help you to deal with problems. State employment service offices refer people to opportunities available under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998. WIA reforms Federal employment, adult education, and vocational rehabilitation programs to create an integrated, "one-stop" system of workforce investment and education activities for adults and youths. Services are provided to employers and job seekers, including adults, dislocated workers, and youths. WIA's primary purpose is to increase the employment, retention, skills, and earnings of participants. These programs help to prepare people to participate in the State's workforce, increase their employment and earnings potential, improve their educational and occupational skills, and reduce their dependency on welfare, which will improve the quality of the workforce and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the Nation's economy. Local libraries. Libraries can be an invaluable source of information. Since most areas have libraries, they can be a convenient place to look for information. Also, for those who do not otherwise have access to the Internet or e-mail, many libraries provide this access. Libraries may have information on job openings, locally and nationally; potential contacts within occupations or industries; colleges and financial aid; vocational training; individual businesses or careers; and writing resumes. Libraries frequently have subscriptions to various trade magazines that can provide information on occupations and industries. These sources often have references to organizations which can provide additional information about training and employment opportunities. Your local library also may have video materials. If you need help getting started or finding a resource, ask your librarian for assistance. These groups, such as professional societies, trade groups, and labor unions have information on an occupation or various related occupations with which they are associated or which they actively represent. This information may cover training requirements, earnings, and listings of local employers. These groups may train members or potential members themselves, or may be able to put you in contact with organizations or individuals who perform such training. Each occupational statement in the Handbook concludes with a section on sources of additional information, which lists organizations that may be contacted for more information. Another valuable source for finding organizations associated with occupations is The Encyclopedia of Associations, an annual publication that lists trade associations, professional societies, labor unions, and fraternal and patriotic organizations. Employers. This is the primary source of information on specific jobs. Employers may post lists of job openings and application requirements, including the exact training and experience required, starting wages and benefits, and advancement opportunities and career paths. Colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions may put a lot of effort into helping place their graduates in good jobs, because the success of their graduates may indicate the quality of their institution and may affect their ability to attract new students. Postsecondary institutions frequently have career centers with libraries of information on different careers, listings of related jobs, and alumni contacts in various professions. Career centers frequently employ career counselors who generally provide their services only to their students and alumni. Career centers can help you build your resume; find internships and co-ops which can lead to full-time positions; and tailor your course selection or program to make you a more attractive job applicant. Counselors can help you make choices about which careers might suit you best. Counselors can help you determine what occupations suit your skills by testing your aptitude for various types of work, and determining your strengths and interests. Counselors can help you evaluate your options and search for a job in your field or help you select a new field altogether. They can also help you determine which educational or training institutions best fit your goals, and find ways to finance them. Some counselors offer other services such as interview coaching, resume building, and help in filling out various forms. Counselors in secondary schools and postsecondary institutions may arrange guest speakers, field trips, or job fairs. Common places where guidance and career counselors are employed include: When using a private counselor, check to see if the counselor is experienced. One way to do so is to ask people who have used their services in the past. The National Board of Certified Counselors and Affiliates is an institution which accredits career counselors. To verify the credentials of a career counselor and to find a career counselor in your area, contact: Internet resources. With the growing popularity of the Internet, a wide verity of career information has become easily accessible. Many online resources include job listings, resume posting services, and information on job fairs, training, and local wages. Many of the resources listed elsewhere in this section have Internet sites that include valuable information on potential careers. Since no single source contains all information on an occupation, field, or employer, you will likely need to use a variety of sources. When using Internet resources, be sure that the organization is a credible, established source of information on the particular occupation. Individual companies may include job listings on their Web sites, and may include information about required credentials, wages and benefits, and the job's location. Contact information, such as whom to call or where to send a resume, is typically included. Some sources exist primarily as a Web service. These services often have information on specific jobs, and can greatly aid in the job hunting process. Some commercial sites offer these services, as do Federal, State, and some local governments. Career OneStop, a joint program by the Department of Labor and the States as well as local agencies, provides these services free of charge. Online Sources from the Department of Labor. A major portion of the U.S. Department of Labor's Labor Market Information System is the Career OneStop site. This site includes: Career OneStop, along with the National Tollfree Helpline (877-USA-JOBS) and the local One-Stop Career Centers in each State, combine to provide a wide range of workforce assistance and resources: Use the O*NET numbers at the start of each Handbook statement to find more information on specific occupations: Provided in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education, Career Voyages has information on certain high-demand occupations: The Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes a wide range of labor market information, from regional wages for specific occupations to statistics on National, State, and area employment: While the Handbook discusses careers from an occupational perspective, a companion publication Career Guide to Industries discusses careers from an industry perspective. The Career Guide is also available at your local career center and library: For information on occupational wages: For information on training, workers' rights, and job listings: Organizations for specific groups. Some organizations provide information designed to help specific groups of people. Consult directories in your library's reference center or a career guidance office for information on additional organizations associated with specific groups. Doing summer job is a good experience for growth. However, remember that summer jobs are just that: temporary jobs that you have over the summer (or even during the school year), that don't necessarily help prepare you for future careers. This book will not talk specifically about part-time or seasonal jobs. However, many of the techniques from this book can be adapted to finding summer work. Further information about summer jobs can be found in the appendix. State counseling, training, and placement services for those with disabilities are available from: Information on employment opportunities, transportation, and other considerations for people with all types of disabilities is available from: For information on making accommodations in the work place for people with disabilities: A comprehensive Federal Web site of disability-related resources is accessible at: Blind workers: Information on the free national reference and referral service for the blind can be obtained by contacting: Older workers: Contact the nearest regional office of the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Service or: Federal laws, executive orders, and selected Federal grant programs bar discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, and handicap. Information on how to file a charge of discrimination is available from U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission offices around the country. Their addresses and telephone numbers are listed in telephone directories under U.S. Government, EEOC. Telephone: (800) 669-4000. TTY: (800) 669-6820). Office of Personnel Management. Information on obtaining civilian positions within the Federal Government is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management through USAJobs, the Federal Government's official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not tollfree, and charges may result.
Contents
Find Prospects
Research the Employer
Networking
Career Fairs
Personal contacts
Employers
Classified ads
Internet networks and resources
Federal Government
Professional associations
Labor unions
Community agencies
School career planning and placement offices
Internet networks and resources
Federal Government
Professional associations
Labor unions
Private employment agencies, career consultants
Community agencies
State employment service offices
Research
Professional Groups
Postsecondary institutions
Guidance and career counselors
Summer Jobs
Disabled workers
Veterans
Women
This guide was put together to answer some of the questions commonly asked by students concerning their career options. Students majoring in environmental studies must be aware that job opportunities fluctuate with the economy, the public's awareness of environmental problems, and the current political administration, none of which are noted for stability. The job market for environmental studies graduates will probably increase for some time to come, but do not expect to walk out of graduation ceremonies and into a company car.
Range Management
Wildlife Biology
Biological Control
Natural Resource Management
Economic Entomology
Biology of Captive Animals
Agriculture
Environmental Education
Botany/Horticulture
Waste Management
Environmental Law
Environmental Consulting
Environmental Lobbying
Environmental Engineering
Remote Sensing
Environmental Planning
Environmental Protection
Air Quality Control
Air Quality Analysis
Ground water Management
Geochemistry
Hydrology
Mineral Resources
Fisheries Management
Exploration Geology
Aqua culture
Oceanography
Lake and Reservoir Management
Urban and Regional Planning
Soil and Water Conservation
Environmental Policy Analysis
Alternate Energy Development
Energy Conservation
Energy Planning
Energy Policy Analysis
Risk Analysis
Mining Reclamation
(2) Who are their faculty? What are their specialties? What do they research?
(3) What are their entrance requirements? GRE? GPA? Application fees?
(4) What kinds of financial support are available?
(5) What kind of special facilities does that department have?
(6) When is the deadline for applying?
Remember: The program the school offers and the faculty advisor with whom you will be working with is more important than where the school is located. Information about various programs can also be obtained by talking to faculty and graduate students who have had contact with the program.
2. Uleck, R.B., ed. 1982. Life Sciences lob Handbook. Prospect Press.
3. Anon. 1992. The College Placement Annual. The College Placement Council, Inc.
4. Cleppter, H. 1979. Careers in Conservation, 2nd ed. J. Wiley & Sons.
5. Basta, Nicholas. 1991. Environmental Career Guide. J. Wiley & Sons.
6. CIEP Fund. 1989. Complete Guide to Environmental Careers. Island Press.
7. Gough, B.E. 1990. World Environmental Directory. Business Publishers.
Science
The Wildlife Society Newsletter
American Institute of Biological Sciences Employment Newsletter
Journal of Environmental Health
American Scientist
The Chronicle of Higher Education
Environmental Science and Technology
The Federal Job Letter
The Federal Register
Environmental Opportunities
Earth Work
Ecological Society of American Newsletter