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Performs professional pharmacological work including drug research, testing, and evaluation of pharmaceutical effects.
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.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0405
Degree: major in an appropriate biological, medical, veterinary, or physical science, or in pharmacy that included at least 30 semester hours in chemistry and physiology and 12 semester hours in pharmacology.
Evaluation of Education: The positions in this series are multidisciplinary positions, since the work involves the application of a scientific knowledge of biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and such related sciences as microbiology, biophysics, genetics, mathematics, and statistics.
Courses in chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, general physiology, and animal, human, microbial, or cellular physiology may be used to meet the 30-semester-hour requirement in chemistry and physiology. Under some circumstances, i.e., where the course work provided additional insight into the biophysical, biochemical, and physiological relationships involved, courses in such subjects as cytology, embryology, cellular or microbial genetics, and biophysics may be used to meet this requirement.
Courses in pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacotherapeutic, molecular pharmacology, and other similar subjects may be used to meet the 12-semester-hour requirement in pharmacology. Courses dealing intensively with pharmacologically-oriented subjects may also be used to meet this requirement.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal pharmacology position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target 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).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Understanding of drug actions and mechanisms.
Ability to design pharmacological studies.
Proficiency in pharmacological methods.
Understanding of FDA requirements.
Ability to interpret pharmacological data.
Skill in preparing research documentation.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-0405 Pharmacologists conduct professional research on drug actions, effects, and interactions. They design and conduct drug studies, analyze pharmacological data, evaluate pharmaceutical effects, and support FDA regulatory reviews. They work at FDA, NIH, VA, and other agencies conducting pharmaceutical research.
GS-0405 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) for entry-level to GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672) for senior research scientists. Most positions are GS-11 to GS-13 ($63,163-$117,034). Research leads and branch chiefs reach GS-14/15. Add locality pay, especially in DC/Bethesda area.
A degree in pharmacology, pharmacy, chemistry, or related biological science is typically required. Advanced degrees (MS, PhD) are necessary for higher grades. Experience designing pharmacological studies, laboratory techniques, and knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements are essential qualifications.
Partially. Military pharmacy technician or medical research experience provides relevant background, but professional pharmacology positions require formal education in the field. Veterans with science degrees who served in medical research units or pharmaceutical operations are well-positioned.
Entry at GS-5/7 for bachelor's holders, GS-9/11 for master's, GS-11/12 for PhDs. Senior scientists reach GS-13/14, and research directors reach GS-15. FDA, NIH, and VA offer robust career ladders. Publication record and research expertise drive advancement.
Search USAJOBS for 'Pharmacologist' or 'Research Pharmacologist.' Primary employers are FDA, NIH, VA, and DoD medical research facilities. Highlight your research experience, laboratory skills, and publications. Veterans with medical research backgrounds have advantages in VA positions.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.