Environmental careers at the Commission include fishery and wildlife biologists, terrestrial ecologists, hydrologists, environmental protection specialists, outdoor recreation planners, and cultural resource specialists. The environmental staff at the Commission concentrates on the siting of gas pipelines and construction and operation of hydroelectric projects, including compliance with license conditions. Scientists have the opportunity to travel across the U.S. for on-site inspections of the nation's largest energy facilities.

Environmental specialists prepare environmental impact statements and assessments that report on the effects on water quality, fisheries, vegetation, wildlife, historic and cultural resources, soils and geologic resources, land use, air and noise quality, and recommend mitigation measures and license conditions. The Commission relies on the results of this analysis and reporting when making determinations on whether to approve proposed pipeline or hydroelectric projects.

FERC needs professionals and students with the following qualifications:

• Degree in biology or environmental science


• Excellent communication skills


• Analytical ability

Meet Fishery Biologist, Aaron Liberty

Meet Outdoor Recreation Planner, Allyson Conner