Training Instruction
Performs training instruction work including classroom and practical instruction in various subjects.
💰GS-1712 Salary Information
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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1712
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in education, training, or subject matter field
- Training in instructional methods
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):
- Upper third of graduating class in college/university or major subdivision
- GPA of 3.0 or higher out of 4.0 as recorded on official transcript, OR 3.5 or higher in major field
- Election to membership in national scholastic honor society
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.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for GS-1712
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal training instruction position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your 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).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-1712
SERE Specialist
Training Instruction. Most direct match. GS civilian SERE instructor positions at SERE schools, Combat Aircrew Training Squadrons, and joint PR training centers.
PME Instructor
Military education experience. Highlight instruction, curriculum development, and leadership education.
Education and Training
Training instruction.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Deliver classroom instruction
- •Conduct practical training exercises
- •Evaluate student performance
- •Develop lesson plans
- •Maintain training aids
- •Counsel students on progress
🎯Key Competencies
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.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1712
What is a Training Instructor?
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.
How much does a federal Training Instructor make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-1712 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1712?
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.
What is the career progression for Training Instructor?
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.
How do I apply for GS-1712 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-1712?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.