Frequently Asked Questions

How do I market my application with OPP?
Are there any options to expedite the standard recruitment process?
Whom should I call if I have questions?
How can I get more detailed information about the various program activities in OPP?
How can I get a copy of the Federal Government pay scale?

1. How do I market my application with OPP?

Consider networking venues for employment possibilities, such as:

Scientific Conference
Job Fairs
Career Fairs

You may also send a copy of your resumé to:

EPA
Office of Pesticide Programs (Mail Stop 7501P)
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20460
Attention: Jeff Billingslea

2. Are there any options to expedite the standard recruitment process?

Here are a few quick-hire options:

Student Educational Employment Program (STEP) - The Federal Government has always looked to educational institutions to find people who have the skills needed to meet its future employment needs. This program was created to attract talented students to Federal public service. It is an opportunity for students to earn money and continue their education, to train with people who manage the day-to-day business of the Federal Government, and to combine academic study with on-the-job experience. OPP uses this program to bring on board students temporarily in the Federal Government at the GS-1 to GS-12 grade levels.
Presidential Management Intern - Persons certified by OPM who have a master's degree in Public Administration can be hired immediately as Program Management Analysts or Environmental Protection Specialists. Visit http://www.pmi.opm.gov/.
EPA Intern Program (EIP) - EIP is a comprehensive, entry-level, permanent, full-time employment and career development program designed to recruit and nurture the next generation of Agency leaders. Program participants join an intensive, 2-year program to foster both personal and professional growth. For more information, contact Jamie Langlie (EIP Program Manager) at 202-260-5675 or EPA-InternProgram@epa.gov.
Persons with Disabilities Program - Qualified candidates can be certified for any grade they qualify for and hired immediately without going through the OPM competitive process. For more information, contact John Benison at 202-564-7266.
Career Experience Education Program - Qualified applicants can establish a Cooperative Education Agreement with EPA and their college or university. Students in this program work in their majors, receive benefits, complete 640 work hours and within 120 days after graduation can be converted to a permanent-hire status with EPA. For more information, contact your college's cooperative education officer.
Positions for faculty members - Qualified college or university faculty members can apply for scientific, professional or analytical positions (which cannot exceed 130 days per year). For more information, contact Carlton Cox at 202-260-2968.

3. Whom should I call if I have questions?

Contact Jeff Billingslea (billingslea.jeff@epa.gov) at 703-308-1838. You may also send a copy of your resumé to his attention at:

EPA, Office of Pesticide Programs (Mail Stop 7501P)
1200 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460.

4. How can I get more detailed information about the various program activities in OPP?

A description of each division in OPP can be found at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/contacts/index.htm.

5. How can I get a copy of the Federal Government pay scale?

The most current Federal Government pay scale is posted at http://www.opm.gov/oca/payrates/index.asp