General Telecommunications
Performs general telecommunications work including communications planning, system management, and technical support.
💰GS-0392 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 |
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-0392
General Telecommunications Series 0392
Note: 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.
This series uses the Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Clerical and Administrative Support Positions as a reference alongside any agency-specific requirements.
Typical Requirements (Agency-Specific):
Agencies typically require:
- Knowledge of telecommunications systems, operations, and procedures
- Ability to operate and monitor telecommunications equipment
- Understanding of data transmission principles and protocols
Education and Experience Requirements: Since no OPM standard exists, agencies develop position-specific requirements based on:
- Type and complexity of telecommunications work
- Grade level of the position
- Mission-critical nature of the work
Contact OPM: Agencies filling positions in this series should work directly with OPM to develop appropriate qualifications when needed.
🎖️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-0392
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal general telecommunications 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-0392
Information Systems Technician (Communications)
GS-0392 General Telecommunications covers hands-on installation, operation, and repair of communications equipment, the daily work of a submarine radioman.
Tactical Switching Operator
GS-0392 General Telecommunications covers technician-level operations support. Clean entry point for transitioning switching operators at the lower grades.
Information Systems Technician (Network)
GS-0392 General Telecommunications covers technical telecom and network support roles that align with afloat network operations.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Plan telecommunications systems
- •Manage communications networks
- •Provide technical support
- •Coordinate telecommunications services
- •Ensure system reliability
- •Evaluate new technologies
🎯Key Competencies
Skill in overseeing telecom programs.
Understanding of telecommunications technologies.
Ability to manage service contracts.
Ability to assess telecommunications needs.
Skill in coordinating with technical staff.
Ability to develop telecommunications plans.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0392
What is a General Telecommunications Specialist?
GS-0392 General Telecommunications Specialists plan, manage, and support telecommunications systems for federal agencies. They oversee communications networks, coordinate telecom services, evaluate new technologies, and ensure system reliability. These are professional-level positions managing agency voice, data, and video communications infrastructure.
How much does a federal Telecommunications Specialist make?
GS-0392 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry to GS-13 ($90,025-$117,034) for senior specialists. Most journeyman positions are GS-11/12 ($63,163-$98,422). Supervisory and program manager roles reach GS-13+. Add locality pay of 15-40% for metro areas.
What are the requirements for GS-0392 positions?
At entry level, a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in telecommunications, electronics, or IT. Higher grades require specialized experience in telecommunications planning, system management, or technical support. Knowledge of telecom technologies, contract management, and communications standards is essential.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0392?
Yes. Military telecommunications experience—Signal Corps, Communications, or IT roles—directly qualifies. If you managed communications networks, planned telecom systems, or provided technical support for military communications, that experience translates directly. Your security clearance is often required for DoD telecom positions.
What is the career progression for Telecommunications Specialists?
Entry at GS-5/7 with a ladder to GS-11/12 is typical. Senior specialists and program managers reach GS-13. This leads to IT Specialist (GS-2210) or Supervisory Telecommunications Specialist roles. Expertise in emerging technologies (5G, cloud communications) enhances advancement opportunities.
How do I apply for GS-0392 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Telecommunications Specialist' or 'Telecommunications Manager.' Positions exist across all federal agencies. Emphasize your telecom planning, system management, and technical support experience. Veterans with Signal or Communications MOSs are strong candidates, especially with active security clearances.
Ready to Apply for GS-0392?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.