Explore how your federal experience as a Environmental Engineering (GS-0819) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS 1-4 | Junior Environmental Engineer, Engineering Technician, Environmental Consultant I | Assist senior engineers with design and execution of environmental projects, conduct site assessments, and prepare preliminary reports. Participate in data collection and analysis. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| GS 5-7 | Environmental Engineer I, Environmental Specialist, Environmental Compliance Analyst | Perform environmental assessments, assist in the preparation of reports and compliance documents, and evaluate environmental impacts. Engage with stakeholders and regulatory agencies for data collection and reporting standards. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| GS 8-9 | Environmental Engineer II, Project Environmental Manager, Mid-Level Environmental Consultant | Oversee environmental projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and lead data analysis efforts. Coordinate with internal teams and external clients for project execution and policy adherence. | $80,000 - $100,000 |
| GS 10-11 | Senior Environmental Engineer, Lead Environmental Consultant, Environmental Project Manager | Lead complex environmental engineering projects, mentor junior staff, and manage client relationships. Conduct detailed impact assessments, prepare technical reports, and ensure adherence to environmental laws and policies. | $100,000 - $120,000 |
| GS 12-13 | Principal Environmental Engineer, Senior Project Director, Environmental Policy Advisor | Direct environmental engineering initiatives, develop strategic plans and policies, and represent the organization in high-level discussions. Ensure project alignment with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. | $120,000 - $140,000 |
| GS 14-15 | Director of Environmental Services, Chief Environmental Officer, Senior Vice President of Sustainability | Oversee all environmental operations within the organization, lead strategic initiatives focused on sustainability and regulatory compliance, and manage budgetary allocations for environmental programs. | $140,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive Environmental Officer, Vice President of Environmental Affairs, Chief Sustainability Strategist | Provide executive leadership on environmental strategies, advocate for sustainable practices at an organizational level, and liaise with government agencies and stakeholders to influence policy. Drive innovation in environmental engineering practices to advance corporate sustainability goals. | $200,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Professional Engineer (PE) License
Obtaining a PE license demonstrates a high standard of professional competence and is often required for engineering positions in the civilian sector. It validates your engineering knowledge and skills, providing you with a competitive edge in job applications, especially for roles that involve project management and leadership.
Certified Environmental Engineer (CEE)
The CEE certification is specifically designed for professionals working in environmental engineering and indicates a recognized level of expertise in the field. It enhances your credibility and can be particularly advantageous when applying for positions in environmental consulting firms or agencies focused on sustainability and compliance.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accreditation
LEED Accreditation showcases your expertise in sustainable building practices and environmental design, which is highly valued in the civilian sector, particularly in construction and urban planning. This certification helps differentiate you as a candidate who is knowledgeable about green building regulations and practices.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification demonstrates your ability to manage projects effectively and lead teams, which is an essential skill in civilian environmental engineering roles. Many employers look for project management skills in candidates to ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Environmental Assessment Professional (EAP) Certification
The EAP certification shows proficiency in conducting environmental assessments and can be a crucial asset in roles that require compliance with environmental regulations. This credential is particularly beneficial for consulting firms that work with clients to assess environmental impacts and develop mitigation strategies.
Hazardous Materials Management Certification (HMMC)
This certification highlights your expertise in the management of hazardous materials, an essential aspect of many environmental engineering roles in the civilian sector. It provides an edge when applying for positions focused on environmental safety, compliance, and disaster response.
ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems Certification
Achieving ISO 14001 certification proves your knowledge and skills in implementing effective environmental management systems, which are vital for companies seeking to improve their sustainability practices. This certification can increase your marketability to industries focused on environmental impact reduction.
Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
The CEM certification signifies a comprehensive understanding of energy management, which is increasingly important as organizations seek to reduce energy costs and improve efficiency. This credential is advantageous for candidates targeting positions in energy consultancy or sustainability management sectors.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0819 Environmental Engineering role to the private sector can be an exciting yet challenging journey. Here’s an informative approach to help you navigate this change confidently and effectively.
Embrace Flexibility: Unlike federal environments, private companies often prioritize agility and rapid decision-making. Be prepared to adapt to different corporate cultures and working styles. Focus on your ability to pivot based on project needs rather than following fixed protocols.
Value Outcomes Over Processes: In the private sector, results tend to be emphasized more than strict adherence to regulations or procedures. Shift your focus from complying with rules to how your work impacts the bottom line or contributes to organizational success.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Companies often look for employees who take initiative and can think outside the box. Cultivating a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset will make you stand out as you apply for positions.
Continuous Learning: The private sector can change rapidly, especially in technology and sustainability fields. Show your motivation to learn new skills and methodologies to stay relevant in your field.
Translate Your Experience: Start by translating your federal job descriptions into language that resonates with private sector employers. For example, instead of saying "managed grants and funding proposals," say "led project funding initiatives that secured $X for environmental compliance."
Focus on Achievements: Use quantifiable achievements to showcase your impact. Instead of listing duties, highlight significant accomplishments such as:
Use Keywords: Research job descriptions in your target field and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume. Look for terms like "sustainability metrics", "project management", and "regulatory compliance" to align your experience with industry language.
Professional Summary: Craft a professional summary at the top of your resume that succinctly conveys your experience, skills, and what you bring to the table. This should capture your core competencies in environmental engineering while also appealing to private sector employers.
Behavioral Interviews: Prepare for behavioral interview questions which often start with "Tell me about a time…" Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, focusing on concrete examples from your previous roles.
Articulate Your Value: Be ready to discuss how your federal career has equipped you with unique skills and insights that can benefit potential employers. For instance, if you have experience in inter-agency collaboration, explain how it can enhance teamwork in a corporate environment.
Ask Insightful Questions: Show that you are genuinely interested in the company's operations. Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your research, such as inquiries about their approaches to environmental impact, sustainability goals, or project management processes.
Cultural Fit: The private sector often focuses on cultural fit. Demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to align with their values, mission, and vision.
Leverage Existing Contacts: Start by tapping into your existing network. Inform your colleagues, mentors, and contacts in the federal space that you are seeking new opportunities. They might have valuable insights or connections in the private sector.
Join Professional Associations: Organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers or similar environmental engineering groups can provide networking opportunities, resources, and access to job postings relevant to your skills.
Social Media Presence: Outwardly showcase your expertise by updating your LinkedIn profile. Share articles, comment on industry news, and engage with thought leaders in the environmental sector. Networking can also be done through forums or webinars that discuss current industry trends.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired industry to request informational interviews. These conversations can provide insights into company cultures, potential job paths, and the skills that are currently valued in the sector.
Simplify Language: Government terminology can be confusing for private sector roles. Simplify your language to make your experience understandable. For instance, replace "Environmental Impact Statement" with "project assessment report" when applicable.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Focus on skills that are highly valued in the private sector such as:
Focus on Results: Private employers care about what you accomplished. Regularly state how your skills led to successful project outcomes, and frame your federal experience in a manner that aligns with business goals such as cost savings or efficiency improvements.
Changing from federal service to a private company role can seem daunting. Remember, the skills you have acquired are transferrable and your unique perspective will be a strong asset in the private sector. With strategic preparation, a clear understanding of the differences in work environments, and a proactive approach in your job search, you will pave a successful path in your new career.