Medical Officer
Positions that involve professional medical work requiring a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree and medical licensure.
💰GS-0602 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 |
| 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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0602
Degree: Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine or equivalent from a school in the United States or Canada. This degree must have been accredited by the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association; Association of American Medical Colleges; Liaison Committee on Medical Education; Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation of the American Osteopathic Association, or an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education at the time the degree was obtained.
Degree from Foreign Medical School: A Doctor of Medicine or equivalent degree from a foreign medical school must provide education and medical knowledge equivalent to accredited schools in the United States. Evidence of equivalency to accredited schools in the United States is demonstrated by permanent certification by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, a fifth pathway certificate for Americans who completed premedical education in the United States and graduate education in a foreign country, or successful completion of the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination.
🎖️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-0602
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal medical officer 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-0602
Medical Corps Officer
Military medicine. Highlight medical practice, leadership, and healthcare management.
Medical Corps Officer
Military medicine. Highlight medical practice, leadership, and healthcare management.
Medical Officer
Military medicine. Highlight medical practice, leadership, and operational medicine.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Diagnose and treat patients
- •Prescribe medications and treatments
- •Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- •Develop treatment plans
- •Consult with specialists
- •Document patient care
- •Supervise medical staff
- •Participate in quality improvement
- •Conduct medical research
- •Provide medical education
🎯Key Competencies
Expert knowledge of medical diagnosis, treatment, and patient care.
Ability to evaluate symptoms and determine appropriate treatment plans.
Skill in providing compassionate, comprehensive healthcare to patients.
Proficiency in performing medical examinations and procedures.
Knowledge of medications, dosages, and drug interactions.
Understanding of ethical principles in healthcare practice.
Ability to maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
Skill in working with healthcare teams to coordinate patient care.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0602
What is a federal Medical Officer?
GS-0602 Medical Officers are licensed physicians (MD or DO) providing clinical care, diagnosis, treatment, and medical leadership at federal facilities. They work at VA hospitals, IHS clinics, military treatment facilities, CDC, FDA, and other agencies requiring physician expertise.
How much does a federal Medical Officer make?
GS-0602 base pay starts around GS-13 ($90,025) and reaches GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672). However, most physician positions use special pay scales—VA physicians earn $100,000-$400,000+ depending on specialty. Recruitment bonuses, loan repayment, and benefits significantly increase total compensation.
What are the requirements for GS-0602 positions?
Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited school is mandatory. Current, unrestricted medical license in a U.S. state or territory required. Board certification or eligibility in relevant specialty is typically required. Completed residency training is standard.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0602?
Military physicians have direct pathway. Your medical training, residency, board certification, and clinical experience transfer completely. Many separating military physicians find excellent opportunities at VA hospitals where their veteran understanding enhances patient care. Active credentials are required.
What is the career progression for Medical Officers?
Entry depends on experience and specialty. Career physicians advance through clinical leadership, department chiefs, CMO positions, and executive roles. VA offers Title 38 physician tracks with competitive pay. CDC and FDA offer public health and regulatory medicine career paths.
How do I apply for GS-0602 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Physician' or specific specialties. VA is the largest federal employer of physicians. Also check IHS for underserved area positions with loan repayment. Highlight your clinical experience, board certification, and any leadership roles. Veterans with medical credentials are highly valued.
Ready to Apply for GS-0602?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.