Veterinary Medical Science
Performs professional veterinary medical work including animal health, disease prevention, and veterinary research.
💰GS-0701 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-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-0701
Veterinary Medical Science Individual Occupational Requirements
Education (Basic - GS-11 entry): Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree from AVMA-accredited school. Foreign graduates must provide ECFVG certification, unrestricted state veterinary license (demonstrating NAVLE completion), or proof of educational equivalency. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or CAEL.
GS-12+:
- 1 year professional veterinary experience equivalent to GS-11 for GS-12 (or equivalent for higher grades)
- Quality indicators: scientific presentations, peer-reviewed publications, specialized clinical expertise
Alternative Advanced Education:
- GS-12: Master's in animal science, avian medicine, food safety, infectious diseases, or related fields
- GS-13: Ph.D. in relevant specialties
Post-Graduate Training:
- GS-12: 2 years internship/residency completion
- GS-13: 3 years training OR board certification from ABVS-recognized specialty
🎖️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.
- ⚠️Note: Degree required for this series.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0701
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal veterinary medical science 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-0701
Veterinary Officer
Direct translation to veterinary science. Highlight veterinary medicine, food inspection, and animal health.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Provide veterinary medical care
- •Diagnose animal diseases
- •Perform surgical procedures
- •Develop disease prevention programs
- •Conduct veterinary research
- •Advise on animal health matters
🎯Key Competencies
Expert knowledge of animal health, disease diagnosis, and treatment.
Skill in providing comprehensive veterinary care to animals.
Ability to investigate and control animal diseases.
Knowledge of zoonotic diseases and food safety principles.
Skill in using laboratory methods for disease diagnosis.
Understanding of veterinary regulations and inspection procedures.
Ability to conduct veterinary research and clinical studies.
Skill in communicating veterinary findings to stakeholders.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Related Series
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0701
What is a federal Veterinarian?
GS-0701 Veterinarians provide professional veterinary medical care, diagnose diseases, perform surgeries, develop disease prevention programs, and conduct research. They work for USDA (food safety inspection), DOD (military working dogs), VA (research), USFWS (wildlife), and other agencies protecting animal and public health.
How much does a federal Veterinarian make?
GS-0701 positions range from GS-11 ($63,163) to GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672). USDA food safety veterinarians typically start at GS-11/12. Senior veterinarians and specialists reach GS-13/14. Research scientists at NIH may reach GS-15. Recruitment bonuses and loan repayment programs add significant value.
What are the requirements for GS-0701 positions?
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited program is mandatory—this is a positive education requirement. Current, active veterinary license in a U.S. state or territory required. USDA accreditation needed for certain positions. Board certification for specialty roles.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0701?
The DVM and license are mandatory—no substitution. However, military veterinarian experience is highly valued. Army Veterinary Corps officers transition directly to federal positions. Your experience with military working dogs, food safety, and public health veterinary medicine translates directly to USDA, DOD, and VA roles.
What is the career progression for federal Veterinarians?
Entry at GS-11/12, experienced veterinarians at GS-12/13, supervisory and specialist positions at GS-13/14. District managers and research leads reach GS-14/15. USDA offers the most positions, with career paths in food safety, import/export, and animal health. Specialization enhances advancement.
How do I apply for GS-0701 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Veterinarian' or 'Veterinary Medical Officer.' USDA FSIS has the most positions nationwide. Also check DOD (military working dogs), USFWS (wildlife), and VA (research). USDA offers loan repayment. Veterans with Veterinary Corps backgrounds have directly applicable experience.
Ready to Apply for GS-0701?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.