Psychology
Performs professional psychology work including assessment, counseling, research, and program development.
💰GS-0180 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 |
| 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-0180
Degree: major or equivalent in psychology for all specializations except clinical psychology and counseling psychology. These two specializations have additional educational requirements, as stated below:
• Clinical psychology: For positions at grades GS-11 and above, satisfactory completion of all the requirements for the doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) directly related to full professional work in clinical psychology is required.
• Counseling psychology: For positions at grades GS-9 and above, satisfactory completion of 2 full academic years of graduate study directly related to professional work in counseling psychology, or satisfactory completion in an accredited educational institution of all the requirements for a master's degree directly related to counseling psychology is required.
🎖️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-0180
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal psychology 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-0180
Research Psychology Officer
Research psychology. Highlight psychological research, data analysis, and program evaluation.
Clinical Psychologist
Direct translation to psychology. Highlight psychological assessment, treatment, and counseling.
Behavioral Health Officer
Behavioral health management. Highlight program management, mental health services, and policy.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct psychological assessments
- •Provide counseling and therapy
- •Develop psychological programs
- •Conduct psychological research
- •Prepare psychological reports
- •Consult with other professionals
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to administer and interpret psychological tests.
Knowledge of psychological research methodologies.
Skill in clinical interviewing and diagnosis (for clinical positions).
Ability to analyze psychological data statistically.
Skill in preparing psychological reports and evaluations.
Understanding of psychological ethics and professional standards.
Ability to provide psychological counseling and intervention.
Skill in evaluating psychological programs.
Ability to provide psychological consultation to organizations.
Knowledge of evidence-based psychological treatments.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0180
What is a Federal Psychologist?
A GS-0180 Psychologist provides psychological services including assessment, therapy, research, and consultation for federal agencies. These professionals work at VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, federal prisons, and agencies requiring psychological expertise.
How much does a federal Psychologist make?
Federal Psychologists earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $162,672 (GS-15 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most clinical positions are GS-12/13/14, earning $75,706-$138,296 annually. VA psychologists may receive additional recruitment incentives.
What are the requirements for GS-0180 positions?
GS-0180 clinical positions require a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA-accredited program plus licensure. Research positions may accept master's degrees. Higher grades require progressively more specialized clinical or research experience.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0180?
Military experience cannot substitute for the required psychology doctorate. However, military psychologists have directly transferable credentials. Veterans with psychology degrees who served in behavioral health roles have relevant clinical experience that supports qualification.
What is the career progression for Psychologist?
The career ladder follows GS-9/11/12/13/14/15 intervals. Entry-level psychologists complete internships. GS-12/13 psychologists provide independent clinical services. Senior positions involve program direction, specialty practice leadership, and research.
How do I apply for GS-0180 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Psychologist' or '0180' series. The VA is the largest employer. Your federal resume should detail clinical experience, licensure, specialty areas, and any research or publications. APA accreditation status is verified.
Ready to Apply for GS-0180?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.