Sociology
Performs professional sociology work including research on social structures, behavior, and institutions.
💰GS-0184 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-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.
🎖️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-0184
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal sociology 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.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct sociological research
- •Analyze social data and trends
- •Study social structures and institutions
- •Develop research methodologies
- •Prepare research reports
- •Advise on social policy
🎯Key Competencies
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.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0184
What is a Sociologist?
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.
How much does a federal Sociologist make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-0184 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0184?
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.
What is the career progression for Sociologist?
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.
How do I apply for GS-0184 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-0184?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.