Social Work
Performs professional social work including case management, counseling, and social services program administration.
💰GS-0185 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 |
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-0185
Degree: social work. Must fulfill all of the requirements for the master's degree in social work in a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Master's degree with practicum: Applicants who complete all of the requirements for a master's degree in social work that included a practicum are eligible for GS-9.
🎖️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-0185
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal social work 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-0185
Mental Health Service
Social work pathway.
Behavioral Health Technician
Social work pathway.
Special Forces Medical Sergeant
GS-0185 Social Worker applies for 18Ds who pursue masters-level clinical credentialing. Behavioral health and SOF reintegration billets at VA and DoD draw heavily from this background.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Provide case management services
- •Counsel individuals and families
- •Assess client needs
- •Develop service plans
- •Coordinate community resources
- •Advocate for clients
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to manage complex cases from intake to closure.
Skill in assessing client needs and developing treatment plans.
Ability to provide individual, group, and family counseling.
Skill in responding to client crises effectively.
Knowledge of community resources and referral processes.
Ability to maintain accurate case records and documentation.
Understanding of social work ethics and professional standards.
Skill in working with diverse populations.
Ability to advocate for clients and their needs.
Skill in working with multidisciplinary teams.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0185
What is a Social Worker?
A GS-0185 Social Worker provides clinical social work services including counseling, case management, and crisis intervention. Federal social workers serve at VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, and agencies providing social services to veterans, service members, and their families.
How much does a federal Social Worker make?
Federal Social Workers earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $117,034 (GS-13 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most clinical positions are GS-11/12, earning $63,163-$98,422 annually. VA social workers may receive additional recruitment incentives.
What are the requirements for GS-0185 positions?
GS-0185 positions require a master's degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program. Clinical positions require state licensure. Higher grades require progressively more specialized clinical experience and independent practice credentials.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0185?
Military experience cannot substitute for the required MSW degree. However, military social workers have directly transferable credentials. Veterans with social work degrees and experience in military family services, MFLC programs, or veteran services have relevant clinical backgrounds.
What is the career progression for Social Worker?
The career ladder follows GS-9/11/12/13 intervals. Entry-level social workers complete supervised practice. GS-11/12 social workers provide independent clinical services. Senior positions involve program management, specialty practice, and clinical supervision.
How do I apply for GS-0185 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Social Worker' or '0185' series. The VA is the largest employer. Your federal resume should detail clinical experience, licensure status, specialty areas, and populations served. CSWE accreditation status is verified.
Ready to Apply for GS-0185?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.