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Performs professional writing and editing work including technical writing, copyediting, and publication development.
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-1082
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
OR
Experience: Professional experience in writing, editing, or journalism demonstrating ability to produce clear, effective written content.
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
This is a two-grade interval series. Positions follow the GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 progression pattern.
| Grade | Education | Experience | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree in any field from accredited college/university | 3 years progressively responsible experience, 1 year equivalent to GS-4 | Equivalent combinations qualifying |
| GS-7 | 1 full year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 | Combinations of graduate education and experience |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-7 requirement) and experience |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-9 requirement) and experience |
| GS-12+ | Not applicable | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to next lower grade | N/A |
Superior Academic Achievement (for GS-7):
Graduate Education: One year of full-time graduate education is the number of credit hours the school determines represents 1 year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours satisfies the 1-year requirement.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal writing and editing 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-1082
Moderate match for MCs focused on journalism and writing. May require additional civilian journalism experience.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to write clear, engaging content for various audiences.
Skill in editing for grammar, style, clarity, and accuracy.
Ability to research topics and synthesize information.
Knowledge of AP, Chicago, or government style guidelines.
Attention to detail in reviewing written materials.
Skill in managing content across multiple platforms.
Ability to produce quality work under tight deadlines.
Skill in working with subject matter experts and stakeholders.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-1082 Writer-Editors create and edit content: reports, publications, speeches, web content, and official communications. They ensure editorial standards, coordinate with authors, and manage publication schedules at agencies requiring professional writing and editing capabilities.
GS-1082 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry to GS-13 ($90,025-$117,034) for senior editors and publications managers. Most positions are GS-9 to GS-12 ($52,205-$98,422). Editorial directors reach GS-12/13. Add locality pay.
At GS-5, you need a degree in English, journalism, communications, or related field OR equivalent experience. Higher grades require specialized writing/editing experience. Portfolio demonstrating strong writing and editing skills essential. Subject matter expertise enhances competitiveness.
Yes. Military public affairs writing, command information, or technical writing experience qualifies. If you wrote news releases, edited publications, or developed official content, that experience translates. DINFOS training and your writing portfolio demonstrate qualifications.
Entry at GS-5/7 with progression to GS-11/12. Senior editors and publications managers reach GS-12/13. Every major agency has writing/editing positions. Specialization in specific content areas (technical, scientific, policy) enhances advancement.
Search USAJOBS for 'Writer-Editor' or 'Editorial Specialist.' Most agencies hire writers. Highlight your writing portfolio, editing experience, and any specialized knowledge. Veterans with public affairs or technical writing backgrounds have applicable experience.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.