Language Clerical
Performs language support work including document processing, translation assistance, and administrative support in foreign languages.
💰GS-1046 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-3 | $27,434 | $28,349 | $29,264 | $30,179 | $31,094 | $32,009 | $32,924 | $33,839 | $34,754 | $35,660 |
| GS-4 | $30,795 | $31,822 | $32,849 | $33,876 | $34,903 | $35,930 | $36,957 | $37,984 | $39,011 | $40,038 |
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-6 | $38,407 | $39,687 | $40,967 | $42,247 | $43,527 | $44,807 | $46,087 | $47,367 | $48,647 | $49,927 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
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-1046
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Clerical and Administrative Support Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements for GS-1046: This series is marked with an asterisk (*) indicating Individual Occupational Requirements apply. Language Clerical positions require demonstrated proficiency in one or more foreign languages in addition to English.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate reading, writing, and/or speaking proficiency in the required foreign language(s) at a level sufficient to perform the duties of the position. Proficiency may be verified through language proficiency testing.
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 1 year | None | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4 years above high school |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Generally not applicable |
General Experience: Progressively responsible clerical, office, or other work that indicates ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position to be filled.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled.
Education: One year of full-time academic study equals 30 semester hours, 45 quarter hours, or approximately 36 weeks at 20+ classroom hours per week.
Combining Education and Experience: For grades GS-3 through GS-5, applicants may substitute education for experience. Express both as percentages; combined must equal at least 100%.
🎖️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-1046
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal language clerical 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-1046
Cryptologic Language Analyst
Cryptologic Language Analysts have direct experience in processing and translating foreign language materials, aligning closely with the duties of a Language Clerical position.
Cryptologic Technician Interpretive
CTIs are experts in foreign languages and translation, directly aligning with the Language Clerical series.
Linguist
Marine Corps Linguists are trained in foreign language translation and document handling, which are key components of the Language Clerical role.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Process foreign language documents
- •Assist with translations
- •Provide language support
- •Maintain language records
- •Support language specialists
- •Handle correspondence
🎯Key Competencies
Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking a foreign language.
Ability to type accurately in both English and foreign languages.
Skill in translating routine correspondence and documents.
Ability to communicate with foreign language speakers.
Proficiency in general office and clerical procedures.
Skill in entering data in multiple languages.
Ability to review documents for accuracy in multiple languages.
Skill in assisting foreign language speaking customers.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1046
What is a Language Clerical position?
GS-1046 Language Clerks provide support in foreign language environments: processing documents, assisting with translations, handling correspondence, and supporting language specialists. They work at State Department, intelligence agencies, and organizations requiring bilingual administrative support.
How much does a federal Language Clerk make?
GS-1046 positions range from GS-3 ($27,434) to GS-7 ($42,679-$55,486). Most positions are GS-4 to GS-6 ($30,795-$49,927). These are support positions with ceiling lower than Language Specialist. Add locality pay of 15-40%.
What are the requirements for GS-1046 positions?
Working proficiency in a foreign language plus general clerical experience. At GS-4, you need 1 year of experience or 2 years of education. Language ability demonstrated through testing. Typing/word processing proficiency in both English and target language often required.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1046?
Yes. Military clerical experience combined with language ability qualifies. If you processed documents in foreign languages, supported linguists, or provided bilingual admin support, that experience translates. Your language skills and administrative experience are both valued.
What is the career progression for Language Clerks?
Entry at GS-3/4 with progression to GS-6/7. Many use this as a stepping stone to Language Specialist (GS-1040) by improving language proficiency. Additional language training and higher DLPT scores open advancement opportunities.
How do I apply for GS-1046 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Language Clerk' or 'Foreign Language Clerk.' State Department and intelligence agencies are employers. Emphasize your language ability and clerical skills. Veterans with language training and admin experience have applicable backgrounds.
Ready to Apply for GS-1046?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.