Aerospace Engineering
Performs professional aerospace engineering work in design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.
💰GS-0861 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-0861
Aerospace Engineering Basic Requirements
Uses Professional Engineering Basic Requirements (GS-800 Series)
Option A - Degree: Engineering degree from ABET-accredited program in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, astronautical engineering, or related field.
Option B - Combination: College-level education plus technical experience demonstrating thorough knowledge of aerospace engineering sciences including aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, flight mechanics.
Professional Registration: Registration as Professional Engineer (PE) is qualifying.
🎖️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-0861
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal aerospace engineering 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-0861
Tactical Aircraft Maintenance
Direct match for aerospace engineering technician roles. Hands-on fighter aircraft maintenance qualifies for journeyman-level positions.
Space Launch Operations
Aerospace Engineering path with additional education.
UH-60 Helicopter Repairer
Aircraft systems knowledge valuable. Aerospace engineering technician roles available. FAA A&P recommended.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Design aerospace vehicles and systems
- •Conduct aerodynamic and structural analysis
- •Develop propulsion systems
- •Perform flight testing and evaluation
- •Analyze spacecraft mission requirements
- •Review aerospace specifications
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of aerodynamic principles and aircraft performance.
Understanding of jet engines, rockets, and propulsion technologies.
Ability to analyze aerospace structural loads and materials.
Knowledge of flight dynamics and control systems.
Skill in integrating complex aerospace systems.
Ability to plan and conduct aerospace testing programs.
Knowledge of FAA, NASA, and DoD aerospace standards.
Skill in preparing aerospace technical reports and specifications.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0861
What is a federal Aerospace Engineer?
GS-0861 Aerospace Engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and related systems. They conduct aerodynamic analysis, develop propulsion systems, perform flight testing, and analyze spacecraft requirements. They work at NASA, Air Force, Navy, Army, and defense contractors support.
How much does a federal Aerospace Engineer make?
GS-0861 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry to GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672) for senior engineers and technical directors. Journeyman positions are GS-11/12 ($63,163-$98,422). Project leads and program managers reach GS-13/14/15. Add locality pay.
What are the requirements for GS-0861 positions?
A professional aerospace or mechanical engineering degree (ABET-accredited) is mandatory—positive education requirement. Experience in aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, or flight systems needed for higher grades. Security clearance required for most DOD and classified NASA work.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0861?
The engineering degree is mandatory, but military aerospace experience is highly valued. Air Force flight test engineers, Navy aviation engineers, and Army aviation specialists with degrees transition directly. Your aircraft/spacecraft systems knowledge and clearance are significant advantages.
What is the career progression for Aerospace Engineers?
Entry at GS-5/7, journeyman at GS-11/12, senior engineers at GS-13, and technical directors at GS-14/15. NASA, Air Force, and Navy offer premier aerospace engineering careers. Specialization in propulsion, structures, or flight dynamics enhances advancement.
How do I apply for GS-0861 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Aerospace Engineer.' NASA, Air Force, Navy, and Army are major employers. Highlight your ABET degree, specific systems experience (propulsion, structures, flight test), and security clearance. Veterans with aerospace backgrounds are highly valued for cleared positions.
Ready to Apply for GS-0861?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.