Loading...
Loading...
Performs copyright work including registration processing, legal analysis, and copyright policy 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-1410
All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education as shown for GS-7; however, as a standard practice applicants enter at grade GS-9 on the basis of a master's degree in library science.
Since many libraries are highly specialized, some librarian positions require a knowledge of a specialized subject or field of endeavor.. Also, since materials in libraries are often in foreign languages, some librarians must have a proficient knowledge of one or more foreign languages. For such positions, applicants must meet requirements that are directly related to the subject matter or language of the specialization. These requirements are in addition to the basic professional library science requirements that apply to all positions. However, these requirements may be included in or supplemental to those specified for all positions. The following specializations are authorized: biological, medical, social or physical sciences, education, fine arts, business and industry, humanities, law, music, engineering, and the Germanic, Slavic, Oriental, Semitic, or Romance languages.
For GS-7: Applicants must meet the requirements specified in paragraphs A or B below.
Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree;
or
A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal copyright 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-1410
Legalmen perform legal research and provide guidance, skills directly applicable to copyright registration and policy development.
Air Force Paralegals are trained in legal analysis and documentation, aligning well with the duties of a copyright specialist.
Paralegal Specialists have experience in legal research and analysis, which is crucial for copyright work.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Knowledge of copyright laws and regulations.
Ability to process copyright registration applications.
Skill in analyzing copyright claims and issues.
Ability to research copyright records and precedents.
Skill in assisting applicants with registration.
Ability to maintain accurate copyright records.
Skill in examining deposits and applications.
Ability to explain copyright requirements to applicants.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1410 Copyright Specialist works at the U.S. Copyright Office (part of the Library of Congress) processing copyright registrations, analyzing copyright claims, applying copyright law to registration decisions, providing guidance on copyright policy, and responding to public inquiries. These specialists protect intellectual property rights for authors, artists, musicians, and creators across the nation.
Federal Copyright Specialists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $117,034 (GS-13 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-12. A GS-11 Copyright Specialist earns $63,163-$82,108. The Copyright Office in Washington, DC is essentially the sole employer. DC locality pay adds approximately 32% to base salary.
GS-1410 positions typically require a bachelor's degree, with law or library science background preferred but not required. Entry at GS-7 requires one year of graduate study in library science or equivalent experience. Higher grades require specialized experience in copyright registration, legal analysis, or intellectual property. Attention to detail and legal reasoning skills are essential.
Yes, relevant military experience can substitute for education. Veterans with experience in legal administration, intellectual property matters, or detailed regulatory analysis have transferable skills. Military JAG office experience, paralegal work, or positions requiring legal document analysis provide qualifying backgrounds. Document your experience with regulatory compliance and analytical work.
Copyright Specialists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-11 or GS-12. Senior specialists and supervisors reach GS-13. Career paths include specializing in specific registration areas (music, software, visual arts), policy development, or transitioning to Copyright Office leadership positions.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Copyright" under series 1410. The U.S. Copyright Office at the Library of Congress is the primary employer. Highlight legal analysis experience, attention to detail, and customer service skills. Knowledge of intellectual property law or creative industries strengthens applications. Include any experience reviewing legal documents or regulatory materials.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.