Nuclear Materials Courier
Federal law enforcement position providing armed escort, security, and protection for transportation of nuclear materials and other sensitive government assets across the United States.
💰GS-0084 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-0084
Nuclear Materials Courier Series Requirements
Education:
- GS-5: Bachelor's degree in any field
- GS-7: 1 full year of graduate-level education OR bachelor's with Superior Academic Achievement
OR
Experience:
- GS-5: 3 years of progressively responsible experience including security, law enforcement, or military
- GS-7 and above: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
Special Requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must obtain and maintain Top Secret security clearance
- Must meet rigorous medical and physical fitness standards
- Must successfully complete Department of Energy specialized training
- Must qualify with firearms and defensive tactics
- Must be able to travel extensively
- Maximum entry age of 37 (with exceptions for veterans)
🎖️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-0084
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal nuclear materials courier 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-0084
Security Forces
Air Force Security Forces guard nuclear weapons storage areas and ICBM missile fields, the closest active-duty analog to OST courier duty. Weapons qualifications, use-of-force training, and an existing security clearance transfer directly.
Military Police
Convoy and protective-security experience, use-of-force training, and physical-security operations map straight to armed nuclear-materials escort.
Master-at-Arms
Antiterrorism and force-protection duty, armed watchstanding, and weapons proficiency match the OST protective-force mission.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Transport nuclear materials securely
- •Maintain armed security during transport
- •Operate specialized transport vehicles
- •Respond to security threats
- •Coordinate with security agencies
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to provide armed protection for nuclear materials transport.
Knowledge of physical protection and security protocols.
Skill in safe handling and accurate use of weapons.
Ability to respond to security threats and attacks.
Knowledge of emergency procedures for nuclear incidents.
Skill in secure convoy and transport operations.
Ability to operate secure communication equipment.
Ability to meet demanding physical requirements.
Skill in maintaining alertness during extended operations.
Knowledge of DOE security and nuclear transport regulations.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Grade information not available
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0084
What is a Nuclear Materials Courier?
A GS-0084 Nuclear Materials Courier is a federal law enforcement officer providing armed escort and security for nuclear materials transportation. These couriers work for the Department of Energy's Office of Secure Transportation, protecting highly sensitive government assets during transport across the United States.
How much does a Nuclear Materials Courier make?
Nuclear Materials Couriers earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $82,108 (GS-11 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale, plus Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) adding 25%. With per diem for extensive travel and locality adjustments, total compensation often exceeds $80,000-$110,000.
What are the requirements for GS-0084 positions?
Nuclear Materials Courier positions require a bachelor's degree OR equivalent experience, plus passing rigorous physical fitness tests, medical exams, psychological evaluations, and obtaining a Top Secret/Q clearance. Candidates must be willing to travel extensively (up to 300 days/year) and work away from home.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0084?
Yes, military experience is excellent preparation. Military Police, Security Forces, Infantry, and personnel with nuclear security or convoy escort experience have directly applicable skills. Combat arms experience, weapons proficiency, and tactical training are highly valued. Existing security clearances expedite the hiring process.
What is the career progression for Nuclear Materials Courier?
Couriers enter at GS-7/9 and progress to GS-11 full performance. Supervisory positions include Team Leader, Unit Commander, and management roles at GS-12/13/14. The Office of Secure Transportation provides specialized training and tactical certifications throughout the career progression.
How do I apply for GS-0084 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Nuclear Materials Courier' or '0084' series. The DOE Office of Secure Transportation posts openings periodically. Your federal resume should emphasize law enforcement experience, firearms proficiency, convoy operations, and willingness to travel extensively. Be prepared for a lengthy security clearance process.
Ready to Apply for GS-0084?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.