Correctional Officer
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.
š°GS-0007 Salary Information
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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0007
Basic Requirements
Education:
- GS-5: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in any field
- GS-7: One year of graduate education with focus on criminal justice, social science, or other field related to the position
OR
Experience:
- GS-5: Three years of general experience (minimum one year at GS-4 equivalent) demonstrating aptitude for correctional work
- GS-6+: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level
Key Personal Attributes Required:
- Ability to interact with individuals from differing backgrounds and behavioral patterns
- Persuasiveness and leadership capabilities
- Sound judgment and problem-solving skills under stress
- Emotional stability and composure during emergencies
- Empathy, objectivity, and adaptability
Medical Standards:
- Vision: Minimum 20/30 (corrected or uncorrected)
- Hearing: Must hear conversational speech in at least one ear
- Mental/emotional stability required
- Must be physically capable of arduous duties including walking, standing, and restraining inmates
šļøTips for Veterans
- āTranslate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- āHighlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- āVeterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- āExperience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
šHow to Qualify for GS-0007
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal correctional officer position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your 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).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
šļøMilitary to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0007
Internment/Resettlement Specialist
31Es map directly to GS-0007 Correctional Officer. The Federal Bureau of Prisons hires 31Es as direct credit for line officer positions and supervisory roles.
Correctional Specialist
Direct translation to federal corrections officer.
Military Police
Corrections officer - strong alignment with MP security skills.
š” Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
šTypical Duties
- ā¢Supervise inmates
- ā¢Conduct security checks
- ā¢Search for contraband
- ā¢Enforce facility rules
- ā¢Respond to emergencies
- ā¢Escort inmates
- ā¢Prepare incident reports
- ā¢Monitor inmate activities
- ā¢Conduct counts
- ā¢Maintain order and security
šÆKey Competencies
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.
šResume Keywords
š” Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
āFrequently Asked Questions about GS-0007
What is a Federal Correctional Officer?
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.
How much does a federal Correctional Officer make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-0007 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0007?
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.
What is the career progression for Correctional Officer?
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.
How do I apply for GS-0007 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-0007?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.