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Performs professional dental work including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental conditions.
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-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.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0680
Applicants must have a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from a school approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) or the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education at the time the degree was obtained.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal dental officer 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-0680
Military dentistry. Highlight dental practice, leadership, and healthcare management.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Expert knowledge of dental diagnosis, treatment, and procedures.
Skill in performing dental surgical procedures.
Ability to provide comprehensive dental care to patients.
Knowledge of preventive dental care and oral hygiene education.
Understanding of dental materials, equipment, and instruments.
Knowledge of dental infection control and sterilization procedures.
Ability to develop comprehensive dental treatment plans.
Skill in maintaining accurate dental records and documentation.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-0680 Dental Officers are licensed dentists providing comprehensive dental care at federal facilities. They diagnose dental conditions, perform procedures and surgeries, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and manage dental programs. They work at VA hospitals, IHS clinics, military dental facilities, and BOP.
GS-0680 base pay ranges from GS-11 ($63,163) to GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672). However, most federal dentists receive special pay—VA dentists earn $120,000-$300,000+ depending on specialty. IHS offers loan repayment up to $50,000. Recruitment bonuses and locality pay add significantly.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from an accredited dental school is mandatory—this is a positive education requirement. Current, active dental license in a U.S. state or territory required. Specialty certification (prosthodontics, oral surgery, etc.) required for specialty positions.
The dental degree and license are mandatory—no substitution. However, military dentist experience transfers directly. Your clinical skills, leadership, and experience with young healthy patients and combat trauma are valued. VA actively recruits separating military dental officers who understand veteran populations.
Staff dentists start at competitive salaries with progression based on experience and performance. Chiefs of Dental Service reach GS-14/15 equivalent with substantial pay. Specialty positions (oral surgery, prosthodontics) command highest compensation. VA offers robust dental career paths with education benefits.
Search USAJOBS for 'Dentist' or specific specialties like 'Oral Surgeon.' VA is the largest employer. IHS offers positions in underserved areas with significant loan repayment. Highlight your clinical experience, specialty certification, and any leadership roles. Veterans with dental credentials are highly valued at VA.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.