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Performs professional sociology work including research on social structures, behavior, and institutions.
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.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0184
Degree: sociology; or social psychology or political science that included at least 24 semester hours in sociology.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in sociology (i.e., at least 24 semester hours), plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal sociology 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.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0184
Intelligence Analysts conduct research and analyze data, which aligns with sociological research and data analysis tasks.
Marine Corps Intelligence Specialists perform data analysis and research, relevant to sociological research tasks.
Fusion Analysts synthesize information from various sources, similar to analyzing social data and trends.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to conduct sociological research and studies.
Skill in analyzing social data using statistical methods.
Knowledge of survey methodology and sampling techniques.
Ability to prepare sociological reports and publications.
Skill in evaluating social programs and interventions.
Knowledge of qualitative research methods.
Ability to analyze social phenomena objectively.
Skill in presenting research findings to diverse audiences.
Ability to analyze social policy implications.
Understanding of research ethics and human subjects protection.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0184 Sociologist studies social behavior, institutions, and organizations for federal agencies. These professionals conduct research, analyze social data, and advise on policies affecting communities, organizations, and populations served by federal programs.
Sociologists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 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.
GS-0184 positions require 24 semester hours in sociology or closely related fields. Higher grades require progressively more specialized research and analytical experience in social science methods and theory.
Military experience cannot substitute for required sociology coursework. However, veterans with sociology degrees and experience in civil affairs, human terrain, or community relations have relevant applied backgrounds that complement academic qualifications.
The career ladder follows GS-5/7/9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level sociologists support research projects. GS-11/12 sociologists lead studies independently. Senior positions involve directing research programs and advising on social policy.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Sociologist' or '0184' series. Positions exist at Census Bureau, NIH, and research agencies. Your federal resume should detail research experience, methodological skills, and publications. Transcripts documenting sociology coursework are required.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.