Chemistry
Performs professional chemistry work including chemical analysis, research, and laboratory operations.
💰GS-1320 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-1320
Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, 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-1320
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal chemistry 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-1320
Petroleum Laboratory Specialist
Laboratory analysis experience. Highlight petroleum testing, quality control, and laboratory procedures.
CBRN Specialist
Chemistry. For 74Ds with chemistry coursework or lab experience. Chemical agent identification, sampling techniques, and analytical methods are relevant. Army research labs (DEVCOM CBC), EPA labs, and FDA hire into these positions.
Medical Laboratory Specialist
GS-1320 Chemistry opens at research and environmental federal labs for techs leaning into analytical chemistry.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct chemical analyses
- •Perform laboratory research
- •Develop analytical methods
- •Operate laboratory equipment
- •Prepare technical reports
- •Ensure laboratory safety
🎯Key Competencies
Skill in analytical methods and techniques.
Proficiency in chemical laboratory procedures.
Knowledge of chemical analysis instruments (GC, MS, HPLC, etc.).
Understanding of laboratory quality assurance.
Knowledge of chemical safety and hazardous materials handling.
Ability to analyze and interpret chemical data.
Skill in designing and conducting chemical research.
Ability to prepare scientific reports and documentation.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1320
What is a federal Chemist?
A GS-1320 Chemist performs professional chemistry work for federal agencies—conducting chemical analyses, performing laboratory research, developing analytical methods, and ensuring laboratory quality and safety. These scientists work at FDA testing food and drugs, EPA analyzing environmental samples, FBI forensic labs, DOE research facilities, and many other agencies requiring chemical expertise.
How much does a federal Chemist make?
Federal Chemists 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 Chemist earns $75,706-$98,422, while senior research chemists at GS-14/15 earn $106,382-$162,672. Agencies with heavy laboratory operations often offer special pay rates.
What are the requirements for GS-1320 positions?
GS-1320 requires a degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering with at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by calculus (differential and integral) and at least 6 hours of physics. Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (GC, MS, HPLC, spectroscopy) and laboratory quality control are essential competencies for higher grades.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1320?
The required chemistry degree cannot be substituted with military experience alone. However, veterans with chemistry degrees and military laboratory experience are highly competitive. Experience in Army medical labs, Navy water testing, Air Force environmental analysis, or NBC (nuclear/biological/chemical) specialties provides excellent qualifying background when combined with required education.
What is the career progression for Chemist?
Chemists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12. Senior research chemists and lab supervisors reach GS-13/14/15. Career paths include specializing in analytical, organic, or forensic chemistry, transitioning to laboratory management, or moving into regulatory science positions. Some chemists pursue management or policy roles.
How do I apply for GS-1320 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Chemist" under series 1320. FDA, EPA, FBI, DEA, DOE, and DOD are major employers. Highlight analytical instrumentation experience, laboratory techniques, quality assurance skills, and any research publications. Include specific equipment proficiency (mass spectrometry, chromatography) and certifications in your federal resume.
Ready to Apply for GS-1320?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.