Fish and Wildlife Administration
Performs fish and wildlife program administration including resource management, conservation policy, and program oversight.
š°GS-0480 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-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-0480
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, or at least 30 semester hours in courses, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
OR
ā¢ Experience: Four years of experience that demonstrated that the applicant acquired knowledge and understanding of one or more of the biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or related disciplines equivalent to that which would have been acquired through completion of a 4-year course of study as described in A above.
šļøTips for Veterans
- āTranslate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- āHighlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- āVeterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- āExperience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
šHow to Qualify for GS-0480
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal fish and wildlife administration 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.
šļøMilitary to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0480
Environmental Engineering Management Officer
Leadership in environmental management and policy development is directly applicable to fish and wildlife administration.
š” Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
šTypical Duties
- ā¢Administer fish and wildlife programs
- ā¢Develop conservation policies
- ā¢Coordinate resource management
- ā¢Manage program budgets
- ā¢Work with stakeholders
- ā¢Ensure regulatory compliance
šÆKey Competencies
Knowledge of fish and wildlife programs.
Understanding of wildlife laws and treaties.
Skill in managing conservation programs.
Ability to work with diverse partners.
Skill in developing management policies.
Ability to allocate program resources.
šResume Keywords
š” Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
āFrequently Asked Questions about GS-0480
What is a Fish and Wildlife Administrator?
A GS-0480 Fish and Wildlife Administrator manages programs protecting and conserving fish and wildlife resources. These professionals work at USFWS developing policies, managing refuges, and coordinating conservation efforts across federal lands.
How much does a Fish and Wildlife Administrator make?
Fish and Wildlife Administrators earn between $52,205 (GS-9 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.
What are the requirements for GS-0480?
GS-0480 positions require education and/or experience in wildlife management, biology, or natural resources. Entry-level accepts relevant degrees. Higher grades require progressively more specialized program management and policy experience.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0480?
Military experience in natural resources management on installations provides relevant background. Veterans with biology degrees who managed environmental programs have applicable experience. Program management skills from military service transfer well.
What is the career progression for Fish and Wildlife Administrator?
The career ladder follows GS-9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level administrators support programs. GS-12/13 administrators manage refuge operations or regional programs. Senior administrators direct major conservation initiatives.
How do I apply for GS-0480 jobs?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Fish and Wildlife' or '0480' series. USFWS is the primary employer. Your federal resume should detail program management, conservation experience, and regulatory knowledge.
Ready to Apply for GS-0480?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.