General Biological Science
Performs professional biological science work including research, analysis, and application of biological principles.
💰GS-0401 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-0401
Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
🎖️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-0401
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal general biological science 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-0401
Biomedical Science Officer
Biomedical research. Highlight research, laboratory science, and program management.
Marine Science Technician
General Biological Science for environmental science focus.
Biomedical Sciences Corps Officer
Biomedical sciences. Highlight biomedical sciences, research, and healthcare support.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct biological research and experiments
- •Analyze biological data and specimens
- •Prepare scientific reports and publications
- •Develop research protocols
- •Collaborate with other scientists
- •Apply biological principles to solve problems
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of biological principles and methods.
Ability to design and conduct biological studies.
Ability to analyze biological data.
Proficiency with biological research methods.
Skill in preparing scientific reports.
Ability to address complex biological questions.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0401
What is a Biologist?
A GS-0401 General Biologist studies living organisms and their relationships to the environment. Federal biologists work at agencies like Fish & Wildlife Service, USDA, NIH, and EPA conducting research, managing natural resources, and developing science-based policies.
How much does a federal Biologist make?
General Biologists earn between $42,679 (GS-7 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually plus locality adjustments.
What are the requirements for GS-0401 positions?
GS-0401 positions require a bachelor's degree in biological science with specific coursework in biology (min 24 semester hours). Higher grades require progressively more specialized research or management experience in biological sciences.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0401?
Military experience cannot substitute for required biology education. However, veterans with biology degrees who served in environmental roles, CBRN, or natural resources management have applicable experience that complements academic credentials.
What is the career progression for Biologist?
The career ladder typically follows GS-7/9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level biologists conduct research support. GS-11/12 biologists lead studies independently. Senior biologists direct research programs and advise on scientific policy.
How do I apply for GS-0401 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Biologist' or '0401' series. Major employers include USFWS, Forest Service, USDA, and EPA. Your federal resume should detail research experience, fieldwork, and specialized biological expertise. Transcripts verifying coursework are required.
Ready to Apply for GS-0401?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.