Physics
Performs professional physics work including theoretical and experimental research in physical phenomena.
💰GS-1310 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-1310
Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.
or
Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
🎖️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-1310
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal physics 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-1310
Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory
Physics pathway.
Space Systems Operations
Physics. Space operations analyst positions at Space Systems Command, NRO, and space acquisition programs. Orbital mechanics and space science background.
Engineering Duty Officer - Nuclear Power
This position involves substantial physics and engineering knowledge, particularly in nuclear systems, which aligns well with physics research roles.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct physics research and experiments
- •Develop theoretical models
- •Analyze physical data
- •Design experimental apparatus
- •Publish research findings
- •Collaborate with other scientists
🎯Key Competencies
Deep understanding of physics principles and theories.
Strong mathematical skills for theoretical work.
Ability to design and conduct physics experiments.
Skill in analyzing experimental and computational data.
Knowledge of physics instruments and measurement techniques.
Ability to write research papers and technical reports.
Skill in computational physics and simulation.
Ability to apply physics to solve complex problems.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1310
What is a federal Physicist?
A GS-1310 Physicist conducts theoretical and experimental research in physical phenomena for the federal government. These scientists develop theoretical models, design experiments, analyze data, publish research findings, and collaborate with other scientists at agencies like DOE national laboratories, NASA, DOD research facilities, NIST, and NOAA—pushing boundaries of scientific knowledge.
How much does a federal Physicist make?
Federal Physicists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $162,672 (GS-15 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Research physicists at GS-13/14 earn $90,025-$138,296. Senior scientists at GS-15 earn $125,133-$162,672. National laboratories and research facilities often include additional special rate supplements for physics positions.
What are the requirements for GS-1310 positions?
GS-1310 has a positive education requirement: a degree in physics or a related field with at least 24 semester hours in physics. Coursework must include fundamental general physics plus two of: electricity/magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, or sound. Higher grades require progressively more research experience. Strong mathematical and computational skills are essential.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1310?
The required physics degree cannot be substituted with military experience. However, veterans with physics degrees and military research experience are highly competitive. Experience in weapons physics, nuclear operations, aerospace systems, or technical intelligence complements physics education. Many physics positions at DOD labs specifically value military technical backgrounds.
What is the career progression for Physicist?
Physicists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12 or GS-13. Senior research scientists reach GS-14/15 or Senior Level (SL) positions. Career paths include specializing in theoretical or experimental work, leading research programs, transitioning to management, or pursuing Senior Technical Expert designations.
How do I apply for GS-1310 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Physicist" or "Research Physicist" under series 1310. DOE national labs (Sandia, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge), NASA, NIST, and DOD research facilities are primary employers. Highlight your research publications, grants, computational skills, and specialized physics expertise. Include specific instrumentation and modeling experience in your federal resume.
Ready to Apply for GS-1310?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.