Range Technician
Federal position performing technical rangeland management work including range surveys, vegetation monitoring, grazing management, and conservation support for BLM and Forest Service.
💰GS-0455 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-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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0455
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Technical and Medical Support Positions
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:
- Work in the conservation, regulation, and use of public or Federally controlled lands for grazing
- Range research activities
- Livestock ranch operation or management comparable to public range
- Range or forest fire control, prevention, or suppression work
Education and Training:
- GS-3: Successful completion of 1 year of study that included at least 6 semester hours in a combination of courses such as range management or conservation, agriculture, forestry, wildlife management, or related fields
- GS-4: Two years of study with minimum 12 semester hours in relevant fields (forestry, range management, conservation, etc.). Maximum 3 semester hours in mathematics credited.
- GS-5: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree with major study in forestry, range management, agriculture, or directly related field. Alternatively, at least 24 semester hours in applicable courses. Maximum 6 semester hours in mathematics credited.
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 |
🎖️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-0455
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal range technician 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-0455
Geospatial Engineer
Geospatial Engineers are skilled in land surveys and data analysis, directly supporting range management tasks.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct range surveys and assessments
- •Monitor vegetation and wildlife
- •Collect field data
- •Support grazing management
- •Assist with conservation projects
- •Prepare technical reports
🎯Key Competencies
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.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0455
What is a Range Technician?
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.
How much does a federal Range Technician make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-0455 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0455?
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.
What is the career progression for Range Technicians?
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.
How do I apply for GS-0455 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-0455?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.