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Performs professional dietetics and nutrition work including nutrition assessment, therapy, and education.
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 |
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-0630
Education (must meet ONE):
Note: Candidates completing AND-approved supervised practice programs or holding RD/RDN registration meet requirements for GS-7.
Grandfathering: Employees in this series as of September 2017 are considered to have met basic requirements.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal dietitian and nutritionist 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-0630
Dietitian pathway.
Good fit for dietitian assistant or food service roles. Highlight nutrition planning, therapeutic diets, and food service.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Knowledge of therapeutic diets and medical nutrition therapy.
Ability to evaluate nutritional status of individuals and populations.
Skill in developing nutritionally balanced meal plans.
Ability to provide nutrition education and dietary guidance.
Knowledge of food service operations and quality standards.
Skill in conducting nutrition-related research and analysis.
Knowledge of food safety regulations and nutrition standards.
Ability to work with healthcare teams on patient nutrition care.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-0630 Dietitians and Nutritionists provide medical nutrition therapy, assess patient nutritional status, develop diet plans, educate patients, and manage food service operations. They work at VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, IHS clinics, and federal food programs ensuring proper nutrition for patients and populations.
GS-0630 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) for interns to GS-13 ($90,025-$117,034) for chiefs and program managers. Most clinical dietitians are GS-9 to GS-11 ($52,205-$82,108). Food service directors reach GS-12. Add locality pay of 15-40% for metro areas.
A bachelor's degree (or higher) in dietetics, food and nutrition, or related field is mandatory—this is a positive education requirement. Registration as a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is typically required. Completion of accredited dietetic internship needed for registration.
The degree requirement cannot be substituted, but military dietitian experience is highly valued. Army 65C, Navy and Air Force dietitians transition directly to federal positions. Veterans with nutrition degrees who served in food service or medical roles have relevant background to complement required education.
Entry at GS-5/7 (internship/early career), clinical dietitians at GS-9/11, senior clinicians at GS-11/12. Chiefs of Nutrition and Food Service reach GS-12/13. Specialization in renal, diabetes, or oncology nutrition enhances advancement. VA offers robust dietitian career ladders.
Search USAJOBS for 'Dietitian,' 'Nutritionist,' or 'Clinical Dietitian.' VA hospitals are the largest employer. Also check IHS, DoD, and USDA food programs. Highlight your RD/RDN credential, clinical specialty, and patient education experience. Veterans with nutrition backgrounds are valued at VA.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.