Outdoor Recreation Planning
Performs outdoor recreation planning work including park planning, recreation program development, and resource management.
💰GS-0023 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 |
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-0023
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education: Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- outdoor recreation planning or a related field such as: sociology, forestry, landscape architecture, economics, biological science, park administration, earth science, natural resource management and conservation, civil engineering, urban planning, or recreation.
Graduate work in one of the above related disciplines is creditable for positions involving recreation planning (but not outdoor recreation specialization) provided it included one or more courses in outdoor recreation.
OR
Experience:
General Experience (GS-5): Experience that provided knowledge of the requirements and practices of outdoor recreation planning or natural resource utilization and conservation.
Specialized Experience (Above GS-5): Experience that demonstrated ability to plan and coordinate the use of land, water, and related resources for recreation and conservation purposes. Examples include:
- Interpersonal effectiveness in working with diverse interest groups and populations
- Analytical ability in assessing the outdoor recreational interests and needs of present and prospective user groups
- Evaluating land and water areas for their outdoor recreational potential
- Development of general natural resource and outdoor recreation plans or studies
- Resolution of administrative, intergovernmental, and socioeconomic problems involved in providing quality outdoor recreation while preserving environmental quality
Pilot Duty (Department of Interior positions): Applicants must possess:
- Current FAA Commercial Airman Certificate with appropriate ratings
- Instrument rating
- Minimum 500 hours Pilot-in-Command time (25 hours night flight)
- Current Class II Medical Certificate
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
| Grade | Education | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree in outdoor recreation planning or related field | 3 years progressive experience in recreation planning/natural resource conservation |
| GS-7 | 1 year graduate education in outdoor recreation or related field OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's in outdoor recreation or related field | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. in outdoor recreation or related field | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 |
| GS-12+ | N/A | 1 year specialized experience at next lower grade |
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0023
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal outdoor recreation planning 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.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0023
Engineer Officer
Engineer Officers often engage in planning and managing construction projects, including outdoor facilities, which aligns with outdoor recreation planning.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Develop recreation plans
- •Design outdoor facilities
- •Manage recreation programs
- •Coordinate with stakeholders
- •Assess recreation needs
- •Ensure environmental compliance
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of outdoor recreation planning principles and practices.
Understanding of natural resource management and conservation.
Ability to plan facilities and services for outdoor recreation users.
Skill in assessing environmental impacts of recreation activities.
Ability to work with communities and stakeholder groups.
Knowledge of trail system planning and design standards.
Skill in planning campgrounds, picnic areas, and recreation facilities.
Ability to develop budgets for recreation programs and projects.
Skill in using GIS for recreation planning and analysis.
Knowledge of environmental laws affecting recreation development.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0023
What is an Outdoor Recreation Planner?
A GS-0023 Outdoor Recreation Planner develops and manages recreation programs on federal lands. These professionals plan trails, campgrounds, visitor facilities, and recreation areas for agencies like the Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Army Corps of Engineers.
How much does a federal Outdoor Recreation Planner make?
Outdoor Recreation Planners earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $117,034 (GS-13 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-9/11/12, earning $52,205-$98,422 annually. Senior planners and program managers can reach GS-13 levels with significant experience.
What are the requirements for GS-0023 positions?
GS-0023 positions require education and/or experience in outdoor recreation, park management, natural resource management, or related fields. A degree in recreation management, forestry, or natural resources qualifies for entry-level positions. Higher grades require progressively more specialized experience in recreation planning and program management.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0023?
Military experience in Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), outdoor recreation programs, or natural resource management can support these positions. Those who managed base recreation facilities, outdoor recreation equipment, or similar programs have relevant experience. Combined with outdoor skills and resource management knowledge, military service provides a strong foundation.
What is the career progression for Outdoor Recreation Planner?
The career ladder typically follows GS-5/7/9/11/12/13 intervals. Entry-level planners assist with facility planning and visitor services. GS-11/12 planners lead recreation projects and manage programs. Senior positions involve regional planning, policy development, and program oversight for large recreation areas or multiple sites.
How do I apply for GS-0023 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Outdoor Recreation Planner' or '0023' series. Positions are common at Forest Service, NPS, BLM, and Army Corps facilities. Your federal resume should highlight recreation program experience, facility planning projects, public engagement skills, and knowledge of environmental regulations. Outdoor certifications and GIS skills are beneficial.
Ready to Apply for GS-0023?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.