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Federal law enforcement position providing custody, supervision, and security for inmates at federal correctional facilities operated by the Bureau of Prisons throughout the United States.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0007
Education:
OR
Experience:
Key Personal Attributes Required:
Medical Standards:
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal correctional officer position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0007
Direct translation to federal corrections officer.
Direct path to corrections. Discipline, security operations, and supervision skills applicable.
Crew coordination and discipline skills directly applicable to corrections environment.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to maintain custody, control, and safety of inmates.
Knowledge of search techniques, contraband detection, and count procedures.
Skill in responding to emergencies including riots, escapes, and medical situations.
Ability to detect unusual behavior or security threats through constant vigilance.
Ability to perform physical requirements including restraint and emergency response.
Skill in safe handling and use of firearms and restraint devices.
Ability to prepare clear and accurate incident reports and documentation.
Skill in maintaining professional relationships with inmates while enforcing rules.
Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful and confrontational situations.
Knowledge of basic first aid and emergency medical response procedures.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0007 Correctional Officer is a federal law enforcement position within the Bureau of Prisons responsible for maintaining security, supervising inmates, and ensuring the safe operation of federal correctional facilities. These officers conduct searches, enforce rules, respond to emergencies, and maintain order throughout federal prisons nationwide.
Federal Correctional Officers start at GS-5 ($34,454) and can advance to GS-9 ($52,205-$67,865) under the 2025 base pay scale. With Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) adding 25% and locality adjustments of 15-30%, total compensation often reaches $55,000-$85,000 depending on location and experience.
Entry-level GS-5 Correctional Officer positions require a bachelor's degree OR 3 years of general experience (1 year equivalent to GS-4). Applicants must be U.S. citizens, pass medical and psychological exams, complete background investigations, and be under age 37 at appointment. Prior corrections or military experience is highly beneficial.
Absolutely. Military experience is excellent preparation for Correctional Officer positions. Military Police, Security Forces, Master-at-Arms, and infantry roles provide directly relevant experience. Three years of active duty service typically qualifies for GS-5, and veterans receive hiring preference. Your military discipline, security training, and experience working under pressure are highly valued.
Correctional Officers follow a one-grade interval career ladder from GS-5 to GS-9. New officers complete training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Advancement opportunities include Senior Officer Specialist, Lieutenant, Captain, and administrative positions. Many officers advance into other BOP career tracks including case management, counseling, or facility administration.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Correctional Officer' or '0007' series. The Bureau of Prisons frequently posts openings at facilities nationwide. Your federal resume should highlight supervisory experience, security training, and physical fitness. Veterans must submit DD-214 for preference. Be prepared for the GL pay scale used for law enforcement and a comprehensive background investigation.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.