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Performs professional geology work including geological surveys, resource assessment, and geological analysis.
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 |
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-1350
Degree: geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography.
or
Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Evaluation of Experience: Acceptable experience may have been gained through geological field or laboratory work that provided a means of obtaining professional knowledge of the theory and application of the principles of geology and closely related sciences, e.g., geophysics, geochemistry, or hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close observations, taking samples, handling various types of instruments and equipment, assembling geologic data from source materials, and analyzing and reporting findings orally and in writing. Experience that involved only one phase of geology work, e.g., collecting samples, would not be acceptable as providing the required professional knowledge of the theory and principles of geology. In some situations, professional scientific experience in other fields may be accepted in part as professional geological experience. Such experience must have been preceded by appropriate education in geology or by professional geological experience, and must have contributed directly and significantly to the applicant's professional geological competence. Examples include some positions in geophysics, mining engineering, soils science, physical oceanography, hydrology, climatology, biology, analytic or experimental chemistry, metallurgy, and comparable fields where the normal duties or results of investigations have been extended to the solution of geologic problems by the applicant. Ordinary functions of positions such as seismic, computer, petroleum or mining engineer, mine superintendent, or metallurgist generally are not considered professional geological experience. To receive credit for geological experience obtained in positions that are not full-time professional geological positions, the applicant is responsible for indicating clearly the actual time or percentage of time devoted to geologic duties within such positions, and for giving adequate descriptions of the geologic functions.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal geology 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-1350
Geospatial Engineers have experience in terrain analysis and map creation, which aligns well with geological mapping and GIS applications.
This role involves analyzing geospatial data, which can be applicable to geological surveys and resource assessments.
π‘ Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Skill in conducting geological field investigations.
Knowledge of minerals and their identification.
Understanding of geological structures and tectonics.
Ability to prepare geological maps and cross-sections.
Proficiency in GIS applications for geology.
Skill in analyzing rock and mineral samples.
Ability to evaluate geological hazards.
Skill in preparing geological reports and assessments.
π‘ Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1350 Geologist studies Earth's structure, composition, and geological processes. These scientists conduct geological surveys, analyze rock formations, assess mineral and energy resources, evaluate geological hazards (earthquakes, landslides, volcanoes), prepare geological maps, and support resource management for agencies like USGS, Bureau of Land Management, Army Corps of Engineers, and Forest Service.
Federal Geologists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-13. A GS-12 Geologist earns $75,706-$98,422. USGS is the largest employer. Many positions involve field work in remote locations, which may include travel pay and per diem benefits.
GS-1350 requires a geology degree plus 20 additional semester hours in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, structural/civil/mining/petroleum engineering, computer science, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, or cartography. Field geology skills, sample analysis capabilities, and GIS proficiency are essential competencies.
The required geology degree cannot be substituted with military experience alone. However, veterans with geology degrees and military field experience are excellent candidates. Experience in combat engineering, terrain analysis, construction site investigation, or military geological surveys provides valuable qualifying background when combined with required education.
Geologists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12. Senior geologists and project leads reach GS-13/14. Career paths include specializing in petroleum geology, engineering geology, or natural hazards assessment. Some transition to regional management positions or headquarters policy roles in resource assessment or hazard mitigation.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Geologist" under series 1350. USGS (largest employer), Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, Army Corps of Engineers, and Bureau of Reclamation hire extensively. Highlight field investigation experience, GIS skills, sample analysis capabilities, and any publications. Include specific software and equipment proficiency in your federal resume.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.