Police
Federal law enforcement position performing police work including patrol, criminal investigation, traffic enforcement, and public safety at federal facilities, military bases, and government properties.
💰GS-0083 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 |
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-0083
Police Series Requirements
Education:
- GS-5: Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, police science, law enforcement, or related field
- GS-6 and above: Education may be substituted at some grades; see specialized experience requirements
OR
Experience:
- GS-5: 3 years of progressively responsible general experience demonstrating ability to learn police work
- GS-6 and above: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
Special Requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must pass a comprehensive background investigation
- Must meet agency-specific medical and physical fitness standards
- Must successfully complete police training academy
- Must qualify with assigned firearms
- Must possess valid driver's license
- May have age requirements (typically 21 minimum at appointment)
🎖️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-0083
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal police 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-0083
Master-at-Arms Chief
Chief security expertise.
Military Police
Direct law enforcement transfer — patrol, arrest, investigation, and crime prevention
Infantryman
Police. Federal law enforcement at CBP, Marshals, Federal Protective Service. Infantry tactical skills and discipline transfer directly. Most require degree or equivalent experience.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Patrol assigned areas
- •Respond to emergencies
- •Investigate crimes
- •Enforce laws and regulations
- •Make arrests
- •Prepare reports
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of laws, regulations, and law enforcement procedures.
Ability to conduct patrol and respond to incidents.
Skill in investigating crimes and gathering evidence.
Knowledge of proper arrest and detention procedures.
Skill in safe handling and use of service weapons.
Ability to use appropriate force and self-defense techniques.
Skill in preparing accurate incident and investigation reports.
Ability to work effectively with the public and community.
Skill in responding to emergencies and crisis situations.
Knowledge of traffic laws and accident investigation.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0083
What is a Federal Police Officer?
A GS-0083 Police Officer is a federal law enforcement officer performing patrol, criminal investigation, and public safety duties at federal facilities. Federal police serve at military bases, VA hospitals, federal buildings, and government properties nationwide, enforcing federal and applicable local laws.
How much does a federal Police Officer make?
Federal Police Officers earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $82,108 (GS-11 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most officers work at GS-6/7/8 levels with Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) or other premium pay. Total compensation including locality pay often reaches $50,000-$90,000.
What are the requirements for GS-0083 positions?
Entry-level GS-5 positions require a bachelor's degree OR three years of general experience. Candidates must pass physical fitness tests, medical exams, background investigations, and complete training at FLETC or equivalent. Age requirements typically mandate hiring before age 37 for law enforcement positions.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0083?
Absolutely. Military Police, Security Forces, Master-at-Arms, and combat arms experience directly qualifies for federal police positions. Three years of active duty service typically meets GS-5 requirements. Military law enforcement training, weapons qualification, and security experience are highly valued.
What is the career progression for Federal Police Officer?
Federal police progress from GS-5/6/7 (patrol) through GS-9/11 (detective/sergeant) to GS-12+ (command). Career paths include investigations, K-9, tactical units, and administration. Agencies like VA Police, Pentagon Force Protection, and military installation police have structured career ladders.
How do I apply for GS-0083 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Police Officer' or '0083' series. Every military base and many federal agencies hire police. Your federal resume should emphasize law enforcement training, arrest experience, weapons qualifications, and any specialized certifications. Veterans receive preference, and military police experience provides direct qualification.
Ready to Apply for GS-0083?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.