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Performs training instruction work including classroom and practical instruction in various subjects.
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 |
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-1712
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
OR
Experience: Experience in training delivery, instruction, or facilitation.
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
This is a two-grade interval series. Positions follow the GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 progression pattern.
| Grade | Education | Experience | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree in any field from accredited college/university | 3 years progressively responsible experience, 1 year equivalent to GS-4 | Equivalent combinations qualifying |
| GS-7 | 1 full year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 | Combinations of graduate education and experience |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-7 requirement) and experience |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-9 requirement) and experience |
| GS-12+ | Not applicable | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to next lower grade | N/A |
Superior Academic Achievement (for GS-7):
Graduate Education: One year of full-time graduate education is the number of credit hours the school determines represents 1 year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours satisfies the 1-year requirement.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal training instruction 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-1712
Training instruction.
Military education. Highlight instruction, curriculum development, and academic leadership.
Direct translation to training instruction. Highlight training development, instruction, and survival skills.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Skill in delivering effective training.
Expertise in the training subject area.
Ability to facilitate learning activities.
Skill in presenting to groups.
Knowledge of various instructional methods.
Ability to engage and motivate learners.
Skill in evaluating learning outcomes.
Ability to adjust instruction to learner needs.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1712 Training Instructor delivers classroom and practical instruction across various federal training programs. These specialists conduct training exercises, evaluate student performance, develop lesson plans, maintain training aids, and counsel students on progress—working at military training commands, federal law enforcement academies, and agency training centers.
Federal Training Instructors earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $98,422 (GS-12 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-11. A GS-11 Training Instructor earns $63,163-$82,108. DOD training commands, FLETC, FAA Academy, and agency training centers are major employers.
GS-1712 follows the administrative qualification standard. Entry at GS-5 requires a bachelor's degree in education, training, or subject matter field, or equivalent experience. Higher grades require specialized experience in training delivery or instruction. Subject matter expertise in the training area and strong presentation skills are essential.
Absolutely—this is one of the best series for military instructors. Veterans who served as drill instructors, training NCOs, military school instructors, or platform instructors have directly transferable experience. Document specific courses taught, student populations, training hours delivered, and evaluation methods used in your federal resume.
Training Instructors follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-11. Senior instructors and lead trainers reach GS-12. Career paths include specializing in specific training domains, transitioning to instructional systems design (GS-1750), or advancing to training management positions.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Training Instructor" or "Instructor" under series 1712. DOD training commands, FLETC, TSA, and agency training centers hire extensively. Highlight instructional experience, subject matter expertise, and student evaluation skills. Include certifications, course development experience, and training technologies used.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.