General Physical Science
Performs professional physical science work applying physics, chemistry, or related disciplines to scientific problems.
💰GS-1301 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-1301
Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
or
• Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
🎖️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-1301
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal general physical 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-1301
Special Reconnaissance
The 1W0X2 weather lineage and environmental data collection support GS-1301 General Physical Science meteorology and atmospheric work.
Space Systems Operations Supervisor
Physical science leadership.
Space Operations Officer
Physical science pathway for space operations.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct physical science research
- •Analyze physical phenomena
- •Develop scientific methods and procedures
- •Prepare technical reports
- •Design and conduct experiments
- •Apply physical science principles
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to design and conduct scientific studies.
Skill in analyzing and interpreting scientific data.
Proficiency in laboratory techniques and procedures.
Ability to prepare technical reports and publications.
Skill in applying scientific methods to solve problems.
Knowledge of scientific instruments and equipment.
Ability to apply mathematical concepts to physical problems.
Skill in working with other scientists and researchers.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1301
What is a General Physical Scientist?
A GS-1301 General Physical Scientist applies physics, chemistry, or related physical sciences to federal research, testing, and analysis. This versatile series covers scientists whose work spans multiple physical science disciplines—conducting experiments, developing scientific methods, analyzing physical phenomena, and solving complex scientific problems across agencies like DOD, DOE, NASA, and NOAA.
How much does a federal General Physical Scientist make?
Federal General Physical Scientists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $162,672 (GS-15 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-13. A GS-12 Physical Scientist earns $75,706-$98,422, while senior scientists at GS-14/15 earn $106,382-$162,672. Research agencies offer additional locality pay in metropolitan areas.
What are the requirements for GS-1301 positions?
GS-1301 has a positive education requirement: a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science (mechanics, dynamics, materials, electronics). Higher grades require progressively more specialized research experience. Laboratory skills and scientific writing abilities are essential.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1301?
The required degree cannot be substituted with experience alone, but veterans with STEM degrees have excellent opportunities. Military experience in technical research, laboratory operations, weapons testing, or applied physics research strengthens applications significantly. Veterans from Navy nuclear programs, Army research labs, or Air Force test squadrons have highly relevant backgrounds.
What is the career progression for General Physical Scientist?
Physical Scientists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12. Senior scientists and research leads reach GS-13/14/15. Career paths include specializing in specific research areas, transitioning to research management, or moving into program management. Some scientists transition to specific series like GS-1310 Physics or GS-1320 Chemistry.
How do I apply for GS-1301 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Physical Scientist" or "General Physical Scientist" under series 1301. Major employers include DOE national labs, DOD research facilities, NASA, NOAA, and EPA. Highlight your degree, research experience, laboratory skills, and publications. Include specific instrumentation experience and quantitative research accomplishments in your federal resume.
Ready to Apply for GS-1301?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.