Apprenticeship and Training
Federal position developing, administering, and evaluating apprenticeship programs and vocational training initiatives that prepare workers for skilled trades and technical occupations.
💰GS-0243 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 |
| 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-0243
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education: Four-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree, or 4-year planned apprenticeship in an apprenticeable occupation.
OR
Experience:
GS-5 (General Experience): Three years of progressively responsible experience, one year of which was equivalent to at least GS-4, that demonstrated ability to assume progressive responsibilities as an apprenticeship and training representative. Qualifying experience includes:
- Journey-level work in an apprenticeable trade or craft
- Developing labor standards as they relate to apprenticeship
- Applying labor laws as they affect workers in the trades
- Training program coordination or classroom instruction in occupational subjects
Above GS-5 (Specialized Experience): One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Specialized experience must have provided:
- Knowledge of the functions, purposes, and practices of apprenticeship or other industrial training
- Knowledge of training methods, techniques, and devices; labor utilization practices; and workforce requirements
- Knowledge of industrial relations
- Ability to work cooperatively with management, labor, and public officials at various levels
Qualifying experience includes work as a member of a joint apprenticeship committee, training official for a union or employer, apprenticeship or training coordinator, or vocational instructor in an apprenticeable occupation.
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
| Grade | Education | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree or 4-year apprenticeship | 3 years progressive experience including journey-level trade work or training coordination |
| GS-7 | 1 year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 |
| GS-12+ | N/A | 1 year specialized experience at next lower grade |
🎖️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-0243
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal apprenticeship and training 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-0243
Recruiter
Army Recruiters develop and manage training programs for new recruits, similar to apprenticeship program development.
Navy Counselor
Navy Counselors coordinate training and career development programs, aligning well with apprenticeship program management.
Recruiter
Marine Corps Recruiters have experience in training and program coordination, useful for apprenticeship roles.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Develop apprenticeship programs
- •Coordinate vocational training
- •Monitor trainee progress
- •Establish training standards
- •Partner with employers
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of registered apprenticeship standards.
Ability to develop competency-based training programs.
Skill in recruiting employers for apprenticeship programs.
Ability to monitor program compliance with standards.
Knowledge of EEO requirements in apprenticeship.
Skill in evaluating training curricula.
Understanding of industry skill standards.
Ability to build relationships with stakeholders.
Skill in maintaining apprenticeship records and reports.
Ability to provide guidance to program sponsors.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Grade information not available
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0243
What is a federal Apprenticeship and Training Specialist?
GS-0243 Apprenticeship and Training Specialists develop, administer, and evaluate registered apprenticeship programs and vocational training initiatives at agencies like the Department of Labor. They establish training standards, partner with employers, monitor trainee progress, and ensure compliance with federal apprenticeship requirements.
How much does a federal Apprenticeship and Training Specialist make?
GS-0243 positions typically range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry level to GS-12 ($75,706-$98,422) for senior specialists. Journeyman-level positions are commonly GS-9 to GS-11. Add 15-40% for locality pay in major metro areas. Department of Labor positions in Washington, DC often start higher.
What are the requirements for GS-0243 positions?
You need either a bachelor's degree, a completed 4-year apprenticeship in an apprenticeable trade, OR three years of progressive experience including journey-level trade work or training coordination. Above GS-5, you need specialized experience in apprenticeship programs, training development, or vocational instruction.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0243?
Absolutely. Military journey-level trade experience (electrician, welder, mechanic, etc.) directly qualifies. If you trained apprentices, coordinated unit training programs, or served as an instructor, that's prime specialized experience. Your DD-214 and training records documenting these duties are essential for your application.
What is the career progression for Apprenticeship and Training Specialists?
Entry at GS-5/7 with a ladder to GS-9 or GS-11 is common. Experienced specialists can reach GS-12 as senior representatives or regional coordinators. Supervisory positions and program manager roles at GS-13+ exist at DOL regional offices. Many transition into broader workforce development or HR specialist roles.
How do I apply for GS-0243 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Apprenticeship and Training' or series 0243. Most positions are with the Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration. Highlight your trade background, any training/instructor experience, and knowledge of apprenticeship standards. Veterans with 5 or 10-point preference have significant advantages for these positions.
Ready to Apply for GS-0243?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.