Communications Clerical
Performs communications support work including message processing, dispatch, and communications administrative support.
💰GS-0394 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-3 | $27,434 | $28,349 | $29,264 | $30,179 | $31,094 | $32,009 | $32,924 | $33,839 | $34,754 | $35,660 |
| GS-4 | $30,795 | $31,822 | $32,849 | $33,876 | $34,903 | $35,930 | $36,957 | $37,984 | $39,011 | $40,038 |
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-6 | $38,407 | $39,687 | $40,967 | $42,247 | $43,527 | $44,807 | $46,087 | $47,367 | $48,647 | $49,927 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
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-0394
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.
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-0394
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal communications clerical 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-0394
Field Radio Operator
Communications Clerical. Communications center operations, message routing, and equipment management. Entry-level federal communications positions that lead to advancement in the 0391/0392 series.
Radio Operator-Maintainer
Communications clerical support. Message handling and dispatch operations.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Process communications
- •Operate communications equipment
- •Dispatch messages
- •Maintain logs
- •Support communications operations
- •Respond to inquiries
🎯Key Competencies
Proficiency in clerical support procedures.
Ability to use telecommunications databases.
Accuracy in processing orders and records.
Clear written and verbal communication.
Ability to manage records and tracking systems.
Skill in assisting users with service requests.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0394
What is a Communications Clerk?
GS-0394 Communications Clerks provide administrative support for telecommunications operations. They process service requests, dispatch messages, maintain communications logs, operate equipment, and assist users with telecom services. They're the administrative backbone supporting agency communications infrastructure.
How much does a federal Communications Clerk make?
GS-0394 positions range from GS-3 ($27,434) to GS-7 ($42,679-$55,486). Most positions are GS-4 to GS-6 ($30,795-$49,927). Lead or supervisory positions may reach GS-7. Add locality pay of 15-40% for metro areas.
What are the requirements for GS-0394 positions?
At GS-3, you need 6 months of general clerical experience or 1 year of education above high school. Higher grades require specialized experience in communications support, message processing, or telecom administration. Computer proficiency and attention to detail are essential.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0394?
Yes. Military experience in message centers, communications support, dispatch operations, or administrative roles qualifies. If you processed communications, maintained logs, or supported tactical or garrison communications operations, that experience directly translates.
What is the career progression for Communications Clerks?
Entry at GS-3/4 with progression to GS-6/7. This is a stepping stone to Telecommunications Specialist (GS-0392), IT Specialist (GS-2210), or administrative specialist roles. Gaining technical knowledge while in this role positions you for higher-graded specialist positions.
How do I apply for GS-0394 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Communications Clerk' or 'Telecommunications Clerk.' Positions exist at agencies with significant communications infrastructure, particularly DoD installations. Emphasize your administrative skills, communications experience, and attention to detail. Veterans preference applies.
Ready to Apply for GS-0394?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.