History
Federal historian position performing historical research, analysis, documentation, and preservation work at archives, museums, military history offices, and federal agencies.
💰GS-0170 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-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-0170
Degree: history; or related field that included at least 18 semester hours in history.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in history, or a major in a related field that included at least 18 semester hours in history, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
🎖️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-0170
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal history 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-0170
Historian
3H0X1 maps directly to GS-0170 History, the series that staffs DoD and agency command history offices. Writing official histories is the same work. Often qualifies GS-9 to GS-11 with a history degree.
Public Affairs Specialist
Army Public Affairs Specialists often engage in historical research and documentation to support communication strategies, making them well-suited for historian roles.
Public Affairs Specialist
Air Force Public Affairs Specialists often conduct research and create narratives, skills that are directly applicable to historian roles.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct historical research
- •Analyze historical documents
- •Write historical narratives
- •Preserve historical records
- •Develop exhibits and programs
- •Advise on historical matters
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to conduct original historical research.
Knowledge of archival methods and primary source analysis.
Skill in preparing historical reports and publications.
Ability to evaluate historical evidence objectively.
Expert knowledge of specific historical periods or topics.
Skill in conducting and transcribing oral history interviews.
Understanding of historical preservation principles.
Ability to present history to public audiences.
Skill in documenting historical resources and artifacts.
Knowledge of historiographical methods and debates.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0170
What is a Federal Historian?
A GS-0170 Historian researches, analyzes, and documents historical events for federal agencies. These professionals work at military history offices, National Archives, Smithsonian, National Park Service, and agency history programs preserving America's heritage.
How much does a federal Historian make?
Federal Historians earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually plus locality adjustments.
What are the requirements for GS-0170 positions?
GS-0170 positions require 18 semester hours in history plus additional coursework in a related discipline. Graduate degrees are common for advancement. Higher grades require progressively more specialized research and publication experience.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0170?
Military experience cannot substitute for the required history education. However, military historians, those with military history degrees, and service members who documented unit histories have directly applicable backgrounds. Understanding military operations enriches historical research.
What is the career progression for Historian?
The career ladder follows GS-9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level historians conduct research support. GS-11/12 historians lead research projects. Senior positions involve directing historical programs, publishing, and advising leadership on historical matters.
How do I apply for GS-0170 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Historian' or '0170' series. Major employers include military service history offices, National Archives, and NPS. Your federal resume should highlight research experience, publications, archival skills, and subject matter expertise.
Ready to Apply for GS-0170?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.