Home / Federal careers / GS-1560
Data Science
Performs professional data science work including data analysis, machine learning, and predictive modeling.
What GS-1560 pays
2025 base rates, before locality. Most federal employees add a locality adjustment on top.
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Base pay only. Locality pay adds 15 to 40 percent or more depending on where the job sits. Source: OPM 2025 General Schedule.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for GS-1560, as written.
Degree: Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science or field directly related to the position. The degree must be in a major field of study (at least at the baccalaureate level) that is appropriate for the position.
or
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major field of study (30 semester hours) as shown in paragraph A above, plus additional education or appropriate experience.
What this means if you served
- Write the duties, not the billet. OPM credits military experience on the work performed, and does not use rank or pay to judge specialized experience.
- Put the training and certifications you earned in service on the page. They count here.
- Claim your veterans preference on the application. It is not applied for you.
- No positive education requirement here, so qualifying experience can stand in for the education.
How to qualify for GS-1560
1Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
2Find Your Grade Level
Grade follows the scope and complexity of the work you can document against the announcement, not the rank you held. OPM does not use military rank or pay when it evaluates specialized experience. Roughly: GS-5 entry, GS-7/9 junior, GS-11/12 journey, GS-13 and up senior.
3Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages. USAJOBS has enforced that limit since 27 September 2025 and will not accept a longer resume from a Title 5 agency posting, so the space has to answer every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact details, and the accomplishments with numbers on them.
5Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that map to this series
Data Engineering
GS-1560 Data Science was created for roles that build and exploit data at scale. Best long-term home for analytics-focused data engineers.
Skills that carry over: Data pipeline design, Data modeling, Analytics infrastructure, Statistical tooling.
Usually opens at: GS-11, GS-12, GS-13.
Cryptologic Technician Networks
Growing demand. CTNs analyze large network datasets, identify patterns in traffic flows, and develop analytical tools. Data science roles at NSA, CYBERCOM, and intelligence agencies value this operational data analysis background.
Skills that carry over: Data analysis, Pattern recognition, Machine learning, Statistical analysis, Programming, Visualization.
Usually opens at: GS-9, GS-11, GS-12.
Airborne Cryptologic Language Analyst
Data science positions value large dataset analysis and pattern recognition from signals intelligence.
Skills that carry over: Large dataset analysis, Pattern recognition, Data visualization, Analytical reporting.
Usually opens at: GS-11, GS-12, GS-13.
Your record can qualify you even when your code is not on this list. The crosswalk is a starting point, not the gate.
Typical duties
- Analyze large datasets
- Develop machine learning models
- Create data visualizations
- Build predictive models
- Extract insights from data
- Present findings to stakeholders
Key competencies
Machine Learning
Skill in developing ML models and algorithms.
Data Analysis
Ability to analyze complex datasets.
Programming
Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and related tools.
Statistics
Strong foundation in statistical methods.
Data Visualization
Skill in creating effective visualizations.
Big Data
Knowledge of big data technologies and platforms.
Communication
Ability to present insights to stakeholders.
Problem Solving
Skill in framing problems for data analysis.
Words the announcement will use
Use the ones your record actually supports. A rater is matching your experience against the specialized experience statement, and a keyword with nothing behind it does not survive that.
Questions about GS-1560
What is a federal Data Scientist?
A GS-1560 Data Scientist applies machine learning, statistical analysis, and advanced analytics to extract insights from large federal datasets. These specialists build predictive models, create data visualizations, develop ML algorithms, and support data-driven decision-making across agencies including DOD, VA, HHS, and DHS working on challenges from healthcare to national security.
How much does a federal Data Scientist make?
Federal Data Scientists earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $162,672 (GS-15 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-12 through GS-14. A GS-13 Data Scientist earns $90,025-$117,034. This is a newer series with high demand—agencies often offer recruitment incentives and special rate supplements to attract talent.
What are the requirements for GS-1560 positions?
GS-1560 requires a degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science, or a directly related field. Alternatively, 30 semester hours equivalent to a major in these fields plus relevant experience qualifies. Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, machine learning frameworks, and data visualization tools are essential competencies.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1560?
Relevant military experience combined with required quantitative coursework can qualify. Veterans with experience in military intelligence analytics, operations research, or data analysis have transferable skills. Experience with military data systems, predictive modeling for mission planning, or analytical support to commanders provides valuable background.
What is the career progression for Data Scientist?
Data Scientists typically enter at GS-9 or GS-11 and can advance to GS-12/13 rapidly given the high demand. Senior data scientists and team leads reach GS-14/15. Career paths include specializing in specific domains (healthcare, defense, finance), advancing to Chief Data Scientist roles, or transitioning to AI/ML leadership positions.
How do I apply for GS-1560 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Data Scientist" under series 1560. DOD, VA, HHS, Census Bureau, and DHS are major employers. Highlight ML/AI experience, programming proficiency (Python, R), big data tools (Spark, Hadoop), and visualization skills. Include specific projects, datasets analyzed, and any Kaggle competitions or technical publications.
Ready to apply for GS-1560?
A rater matches your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement, inside two pages. BMR writes that shape from your own experience: competency headers, real scope, hours per week, and the supervisor detail the rater checks.