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Federal position performing technical rangeland management work including range surveys, vegetation monitoring, grazing management, and conservation support for BLM and Forest Service.
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-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 |
| GS-8 | $47,265 | $48,841 | $50,417 | $51,993 | $53,569 | $55,145 | $56,721 | $58,297 | $59,873 | $61,449 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
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-0455
Individual Occupational Requirements for GS-0455:
Specialized Experience (GS-4 and above): Seasonal experience is creditable, defined as a minimum of 3 months continuous employment on a seasonal basis. Shorter periods may combine to reach 3 months total. One season qualifies for GS-2; two seasons for GS-3; and four seasons for GS-4.
Qualifying experience includes:
Education and Training:
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months (or 1 season) | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months (or 2 seasons) | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 6 months (or 4 seasons) | 6 months | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4-year bachelor's degree |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Graduate education if directly related |
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal range technician 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.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0455
Geospatial Engineers are skilled in land surveys and data analysis, directly supporting range management tasks.
Combat Engineers often work in diverse outdoor environments and have experience with land surveys and environmental assessments.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Understanding of rangeland ecosystems.
Ability to conduct range surveys and inventories.
Skill in gathering and recording range data.
Proficiency with range monitoring tools.
Capability to work in remote outdoor conditions.
Ability to work with ranchers and landowners.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-0455 Range Technicians perform technical rangeland work: conducting range surveys, monitoring vegetation and wildlife, collecting field data, supporting grazing management, and assisting conservation projects. They work outdoors on BLM and Forest Service lands throughout the western U.S.
GS-0455 positions range from GS-4 ($30,795) to GS-9 ($52,205-$67,865). Most positions are GS-5 to GS-7 ($34,454-$55,486). Lead technicians reach GS-8/9. Seasonal positions are common. Remote duty stations may qualify for additional allowances.
At GS-4, you need 1 year of general experience or 2 years of education above high school. Higher grades require specialized range experience—field surveys, vegetation monitoring, or grazing management. Physical ability to work in remote outdoor conditions is essential.
Yes. Military experience working outdoors, conducting surveys, collecting field data, or natural resource work qualifies. Environmental compliance, land management support, or agriculture/ranch backgrounds translate well. Your ability to work independently in challenging field conditions is valued.
Entry at GS-4/5 with progression to GS-7/8/9. Many use this as a stepping stone to Rangeland Management Specialist (GS-0454) at higher grades. Cross-training in wildland fire adds seasonal opportunities. Permanent positions often follow successful seasonal work.
Search USAJOBS for 'Range Technician' or 'Rangeland Technician.' Most positions are with BLM and Forest Service in western states. Many are seasonal (spring through fall). Emphasize your outdoor skills, physical fitness, and any range or agriculture experience. Veterans preference applies.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.