Employers

The EPA has 350 specially trained investigators, chemists, technicians, engineers, lawyers, and support staff in its Criminal Investigation Division, which has more than 40 offices nationwide. 

Starting Out

Many people break into careers with the EPA by working as an intern at the agency during high school. Visit https://www.epa.gov/careers/student-internships for more information on internship programs.

Information on employment as an EPA special agent can be obtained by visiting the USAJobs Web site (https://www.usajobs.gov) or by visiting the Careers and Internships page (http://www.epa.gov/careers) at the EPA Web site.

With a few years of experience and a proven track record, EPA special agents can advance to become assistant special agent in charge. The next step up is special agent in charge, where they are responsible for supervising agents and staff, and managing criminal investigation programs in multi-jurisdictions and across multiple regions. Special agents may also be able to move into different departments within the EPA.

Participate in internships with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to obtain experience and make networking connections. According to its Web site, the EPA "hires high school and college interns for administrative/clerical positions as well as technical positions in areas such as life sciences, program or policy analysis, and engineering." Visit https://www.epa.gov/careers/student-internships for more information.

Information on employment as an EPA special agent can be obtained by visiting the USAJobs Web site (https://www.usajobs.gov) or by visiting the Careers and Internships page (http://www.epa.gov/careers) at the EPA Web site.

Join environmental professional associations to learn more about environmental laws and careers.

Conduct information interviews with EPA special agents and ask them for advice on preparing for and entering the field.