Ecology
Performs professional ecological work including study of ecosystems, environmental relationships, and conservation.
💰GS-0408 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 |
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-0408
Degree: biology, or a related field of science underlying ecological research that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied biological sciences. These hours must have included at least 9 semester hours in ecology, and 12 semester hours in physical and mathematical sciences.
🎖️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-0408
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal ecology 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.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct ecological research and surveys
- •Analyze ecosystem dynamics
- •Assess environmental impacts
- •Develop conservation strategies
- •Monitor wildlife populations
- •Prepare ecological reports
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of ecosystems and ecological principles.
Ability to conduct ecological studies in the field.
Skill in analyzing ecological data and trends.
Ability to evaluate environmental impacts.
Knowledge of species and habitat conservation.
Skill in preparing ecological reports.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0408
What is an Ecologist?
A GS-0408 Ecologist studies relationships between organisms and their environments for federal agencies. Federal ecologists work at EPA, Fish & Wildlife Service, and land management agencies conducting research, managing ecosystems, and developing conservation policies.
How much does a federal Ecologist make?
Ecologists 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-0408?
GS-0408 positions require a degree in ecology or biological science with ecology coursework. Higher grades require progressively more specialized research and ecosystem management experience.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0408?
Military experience cannot substitute for required ecology education. However, veterans with ecology degrees who served in environmental roles have applicable field experience that complements academic credentials.
What is the career progression for Ecologist?
The career ladder follows GS-7/9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level ecologists conduct field research support. GS-11/12 ecologists lead studies independently. Senior ecologists direct research programs and advise on ecosystem management policy.
How do I apply for GS-0408 jobs?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Ecologist' or '0408' series. Major employers include EPA, USFWS, and land management agencies. Your federal resume should detail research experience, fieldwork, and ecosystem expertise. Transcripts are required.
Ready to Apply for GS-0408?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.