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Performs professional mathematics work including mathematical research, analysis, and application of mathematical theories.
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.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1520
Degree: mathematics; or the equivalent of a major that included at least 24 semester hours in mathematics.
or
Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in mathematics (including at least 24 semester hours in mathematics), as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
The total course work in either A or B above must have included differential and integral calculus and, in addition, four advanced mathematics courses requiring calculus or equivalent mathematics courses as a prerequisite.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal mathematics 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.
Deep knowledge of mathematical principles and theorems.
Strong skills in mathematical analysis and proof.
Ability to apply math to practical problems.
Skill in developing mathematical algorithms.
Ability to conduct original mathematical research.
Proficiency in mathematical computing software.
Ability to prepare mathematical papers and reports.
Skill in identifying mathematical approaches to problems.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1520 Mathematician conducts mathematical research and applies mathematical theories to solve complex problems for the federal government. These professionals develop mathematical models, create algorithms, perform advanced analysis, and collaborate with scientists and engineers at agencies like NSA, DOD research facilities, NASA, NIST, and DOE national laboratories.
Federal Mathematicians 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-11 through GS-14. A GS-13 Mathematician earns $90,025-$117,034. NSA (largest employer), DOD research facilities, and national laboratories offer positions. Senior research mathematicians can reach GS-15 or Senior Level (SL) positions.
GS-1520 requires a degree in mathematics or equivalent with at least 24 semester hours in mathematics. Coursework must include differential and integral calculus plus four additional advanced math courses requiring calculus as prerequisite. Specialization in applied mathematics, statistics, or computational mathematics strengthens applications for most federal positions.
The required mathematics degree cannot be substituted with military experience alone. However, veterans with math degrees combined with military analytical experience are excellent candidates. Experience in cryptography, signals intelligence, weapons modeling, or technical intelligence provides relevant background. Many NSA mathematicians come from military intelligence backgrounds.
Mathematicians follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12 or GS-13. Senior mathematicians and research leads reach GS-14/15 or Senior Level positions. Career paths include specializing in cryptography (NSA), applied research (national labs), or theoretical mathematics. Some transition to research management or scientific leadership positions.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Mathematician" or "Research Mathematician" under series 1520. NSA, DOD research facilities, NASA, NIST, and DOE labs are primary employers. Highlight your mathematical specialization, programming skills (Python, MATLAB, C++), and any publications. Many positions require security clearances—include clearance status in your resume. NSA hires heavily in this series.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.