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Performs security support work including visitor processing, badge issuance, and security administrative support.
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.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0086
Individual Occupational Requirements: There are no Individual Occupational Requirements for this series.
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level:
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 1 year | None | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4 years above high school |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Generally not applicable |
General Experience: Progressively responsible clerical, office, or other work that indicates ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position to be filled.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled.
Education: One year of full-time academic study equals 30 semester hours, 45 quarter hours, or approximately 36 weeks at 20+ classroom hours per week. Education above high school is generally acceptable through GS-5; graduate education is rarely creditable above this level.
Combining Education and Experience: For grades GS-3 through GS-5, applicants may substitute education for experience. Express both as percentages; combined must equal at least 100%.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal security clerical and assistance position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target 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).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Skill in maintaining security files and databases.
Ability to process identification badges and access credentials.
Skill in managing visitor registration and access.
Ability to accurately enter and retrieve security information.
Skill in assisting employees and visitors with security matters.
Understanding of handling sensitive security information.
Proficiency in security management software and databases.
Ability to answer inquiries about security procedures.
Skill in accurately processing security documents.
Ability to coordinate security briefings and appointments.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0086 Security Clerical and Assistance position provides administrative support for security programs. These specialists process visitor requests, issue badges, maintain security records, and support security operations at federal facilities and military installations.
Security Assistants 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 plus locality adjustments of 15-30% depending on location.
Entry-level positions require general clerical experience or relevant education. Higher grades need experience with visitor processing systems, badge issuance, security databases, and administrative procedures. Familiarity with security protocols and handling sensitive information is essential.
Yes, military administrative experience supports these positions. Personnel specialists, unit clerks, and those who worked in S-2/G-2 shops have relevant experience. Any experience processing security paperwork, visitor requests, or maintaining security records in the military qualifies for these positions.
Security Assistants progress from GS-3/4 (entry) through GS-5/6/7 (senior). Many advance to GS-0080 Security Specialist positions with additional experience and training. The clerical track provides a foundation for broader security careers.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Security Assistant' or '0086' series. Positions exist at federal buildings, military bases, and agencies with visitor access programs. Your federal resume should highlight administrative skills, customer service experience, and familiarity with security procedures. Attention to detail is crucial.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.