Social Science
Performs professional social science work including research, analysis, and application of social science theories and methods.
💰GS-0101 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 |
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-0101
Degree: behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
OR
Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
🎖️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-0101
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal social science 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-0101
Mental Health Service
GS-0101 Social Science covers behavioral-science program and analyst roles. Add education to qualify for the higher grades.
Career Counselor
Social Science covers program and counseling positions where a bachelor's degree is in play, a fit for the counseling side of the 79S record.
Correctional Specialist
GS-0101 Social Science supports correctional-treatment and program roles when paired with relevant coursework. The behavioral-observation and case work from brig programs is the entry point.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct social science research
- •Analyze social data and trends
- •Develop research methodologies
- •Prepare research reports
- •Apply social science theories
- •Collaborate with other researchers
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of social science research methodologies.
Skill in analyzing quantitative and qualitative data.
Ability to use statistical techniques and software.
Skill in preparing research reports and publications.
Ability to synthesize existing research and literature.
Knowledge of survey methodology and questionnaire design.
Skill in evaluating social programs and policies.
Ability to analyze complex social issues objectively.
Skill in presenting research findings to diverse audiences.
Understanding of research ethics and human subjects protection.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0101
What is a Social Science Specialist?
A GS-0101 Social Scientist performs professional research and analysis applying social science theories and methods. These specialists work in sociology, political science, anthropology, and related disciplines to inform policy, evaluate programs, and understand human behavior for federal agencies.
How much does a federal Social Scientist make?
Social Scientists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most full-performance positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually. Senior researchers and program managers can reach GS-14/15 levels.
What are the requirements for GS-0101 positions?
GS-0101 positions require education and/or experience in social sciences. A bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours in social science qualifies for entry-level. Higher grades require progressively more specialized experience in research, analysis, or program evaluation using social science methods.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0101?
Military experience in intelligence analysis, civil affairs, psychological operations, or human terrain work provides relevant social science application. However, the academic coursework requirement means education typically cannot be fully substituted. Military experience combined with a social science degree is ideal.
What is the career progression for Social Science Specialist?
The career ladder follows GS-5/7/9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level specialists support research projects. GS-11/12 specialists lead studies and analysis. GS-13/14 positions involve program direction and senior research roles. Graduate degrees accelerate advancement.
How do I apply for GS-0101 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Social Scientist' or '0101' series. Positions exist at NIH, DOD, VA, and policy agencies. Your federal resume should detail research experience, analytical methods, publications, and specific social science expertise. Transcripts documenting coursework are typically required.
Ready to Apply for GS-0101?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.