Data Transcriber
Federal position transcribing data from source documents into automated systems, databases, and information management platforms for federal agencies and government programs.
💰GS-0356 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-0356
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Clerical and Administrative Support Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements: There is no OPM qualification standard for this series. If a standard is needed to fill positions in this series, the employing agency should contact OPM for assistance.
Proficiency Requirements (from Group Coverage Standard): Data Transcriber positions typically require keyboarding proficiency at required speed (varies by position and agency requirements). Applicants may demonstrate proficiency through performance testing, authorized certificates (valid 3 years), or self-certification (subject to agency verification).
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 1 year | None | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4 years above high school |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Generally not applicable |
General Experience: Progressively responsible clerical, office, or other work that indicates ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position to be filled.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled.
Education: One year of full-time academic study equals 30 semester hours, 45 quarter hours, or approximately 36 weeks at 20+ classroom hours per week.
Combining Education and Experience: For grades GS-3 through GS-5, applicants may substitute education for experience. Express both as percentages; combined must equal at least 100%.
🎖️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-0356
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal data transcriber 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-0356
Administration
Air Force Administration personnel perform data entry and maintain records, which are key components of a data transcriber role.
Yeoman
Yeomen handle administrative and clerical duties, including data entry and document management, making them suitable for data transcription roles.
Administrative Specialist
Administrative Specialists in the Marine Corps are tasked with data entry and document management, aligning closely with data transcription duties.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Enter data into systems
- •Verify data accuracy
- •Transcribe source documents
- •Maintain data quality
- •Process high-volume data
🎯Key Competencies
Rapid and accurate data entry skills.
High accuracy in transcribing information.
Ability to maintain focus during repetitive tasks.
Proficiency with data entry systems.
Skill in verifying data accuracy.
Ability to meet volume and accuracy standards.
🔑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-0356
What is a federal Data Transcriber?
GS-0356 Data Transcribers enter data from source documents into computer systems, databases, and information platforms. They transcribe forms, applications, records, and other documents with high accuracy and speed. Critical for agencies processing high volumes of applications, claims, or records.
How much does a federal Data Transcriber make?
GS-0356 positions typically range from GS-2 ($25,142) to GS-5 ($34,454-$44,786). Most positions are GS-3 to GS-4 ($27,434-$40,038). High-volume production environments may offer GS-5/6. Add locality pay of 15-40% in metro areas.
What are the requirements for GS-0356 positions?
Keyboarding speed and accuracy are critical—agencies set specific requirements (often 40+ wpm with high accuracy). At GS-3, you need 6 months of general experience. You'll demonstrate speed through testing or certification. Concentration and attention to detail are essential qualities.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0356?
Yes. Any military data entry, administrative, or records processing experience qualifies. If you entered personnel data, processed logistics information, or maintained databases, highlight that experience. Your demonstrated ability to work accurately with high-volume data is exactly what they need.
What is the career progression for Data Transcribers?
Start at GS-2/3 with progression to GS-4/5. Many use this as an entry point to federal service, then move to Program Support Assistant, Computer Clerk, or other administrative positions. Data quality experience can lead to data management or database administration careers.
How do I apply for GS-0356 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Data Transcriber' or 'Data Entry.' Positions are common at agencies with high-volume data processing: SSA, VA, IRS, USCIS. Be prepared to demonstrate your keyboarding speed and accuracy. Veterans preference applies to these competitive entry-level positions.
Ready to Apply for GS-0356?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.