Security Guard
Performs security guard work including access control, patrol, and protection of property and personnel.
💰GS-0085 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-3 | $27,434 | $28,349 | $29,264 | $30,179 | $31,094 | $32,009 | $32,924 | $33,839 | $34,754 | $35,660 |
| GS-4 | $30,795 | $31,822 | $32,849 | $33,876 | $34,903 | $35,930 | $36,957 | $37,984 | $39,011 | $40,038 |
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-6 | $38,407 | $39,687 | $40,967 | $42,247 | $43,527 | $44,807 | $46,087 | $47,367 | $48,647 | $49,927 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
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-0085
Security Guard Series Requirements
Education:
- GS-4: 2 years of education above high school
- GS-5: 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree
OR
Experience:
- GS-4: 6 months of general experience AND 6 months of specialized experience, OR 1 year of general experience
- GS-5: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4
Special Requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen (for most positions)
- Must pass background investigation appropriate to the security sensitivity of the position
- Must meet physical requirements including ability to stand for extended periods
- May require ability to qualify with firearms for armed positions
- May require valid driver's license
🎖️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-0085
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal security guard 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-0085
Military Police
Direct transfer of physical security, access control, and force protection skills
Rifleman
Security Guard. Entry-level security positions at federal facilities. Infantry weapons handling, access control, and security awareness training transfer directly. Good stepping stone to GS-0083 Police.
Machine Gunner
Security Guard. Federal facility security at DOD installations, courthouses, and government buildings. Discipline, alertness, and protective mindset are directly applicable. Entry point for federal security career ladder.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Control access to facilities
- •Patrol assigned areas
- •Monitor security systems
- •Respond to incidents
- •Document security events
- •Provide customer service
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to control entry to facilities and verify credentials.
Skill in conducting security patrols and inspections.
Ability to detect unusual activities and security breaches.
Knowledge of emergency procedures and evacuation protocols.
Skill in preparing security incident reports.
Ability to assist visitors while maintaining security.
Skill in using security systems and monitoring equipment.
Ability to communicate clearly via radio and telephone.
Knowledge of locks, alarms, and access control systems.
Basic knowledge of first aid and emergency response.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0085
What is a Federal Security Guard?
A GS-0085 Security Guard protects federal facilities, personnel, and property through access control, patrol, and surveillance. Security Guards work at federal buildings, military installations, VA hospitals, and government facilities, controlling entry points and responding to security incidents.
How much does a federal Security Guard make?
Security Guards earn between $27,434 (GS-3 Step 1) and $49,927 (GS-6 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-4/5/6, earning $30,795-$49,927 annually. Shift differentials and locality pay can increase total compensation by 15-30%.
What are the requirements for GS-0085 positions?
Entry-level GS-3/4 positions require general experience or relevant training. Higher grades need progressively more specialized experience in access control, patrol procedures, and security operations. Candidates must pass background checks and may need security clearances depending on the facility.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0085?
Yes, military experience is ideal for Security Guard positions. Security Forces, Military Police, Sentries, and gate guards have directly applicable experience. Any military experience with access control, patrol, or facility security qualifies. Veterans often enter at GS-4 or higher based on their background.
What is the career progression for Security Guard?
Security Guards progress from GS-3/4 (entry) through GS-5/6/7 (senior/lead). Many guards advance to GS-0080 Security Specialist positions or GS-0083 Police Officer roles with additional training. The security field offers multiple pathways for career advancement.
How do I apply for GS-0085 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Security Guard' or '0085' series. Positions exist at virtually every federal facility. Your federal resume should highlight access control experience, patrol duties, emergency response, and any security certifications. Veterans receive hiring preference, and military security experience is directly applicable.
Ready to Apply for GS-0085?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.