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Performs securities compliance work including examination of financial institutions and enforcement of securities laws.
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-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 |
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-1831
⚠️ SEC EXCLUSIVE SERIES: This series is retained for the sole use of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Education:
Option 1 - Undergraduate:
Option 2 - Graduate:
Experience:
GS-5 (General Experience): Background demonstrating knowledge and skill in financial/operational information analysis related to business practices. Must show ability to:
Above GS-5 (Specialized Experience): Thorough knowledge of accounting, auditing, examining, or investigating principles with experience in:
Qualifying Positions Include:
Associated Group Standard: Use the Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions alongside these Individual Occupational Requirements.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal securities compliance examining 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-1831
Yeomen manage administrative and financial records, providing a basis for understanding compliance and financial documentation.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Knowledge of SEC regulations and securities laws.
Skill in analyzing financial statements and transactions.
Ability to conduct compliance examinations.
Skill in identifying securities fraud and violations.
Ability to prepare examination reports.
Skill in investigating potential violations.
Ability to explain regulatory requirements.
Skill in reviewing complex financial records.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1831 Securities Compliance Examiner conducts examinations of broker-dealers, investment advisers, and investment companies to ensure compliance with federal securities laws. These specialists analyze financial records, identify securities fraud and violations, and recommend enforcement actions—working exclusively for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
SEC Compliance Examiners earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. However, SEC operates under a different pay system with higher salaries—actual SEC examiner compensation typically ranges from $70,000 to $180,000+ depending on grade and location. DC headquarters and regional offices hire most positions.
GS-1831 is exclusive to the SEC and requires a degree in business, economics, or related field with at least 24 semester hours in business/economic subjects including 6 hours in accounting/auditing. Alternatively, an advanced degree in business administration, finance, or accounting qualifies. Deep knowledge of securities laws and financial analysis skills are essential.
The specific educational requirements make direct substitution difficult. However, veterans with accounting, finance, or business degrees combined with military financial management experience are excellent candidates. Experience in military auditing, financial investigations, or comptroller functions provides relevant background when combined with required education.
SEC Examiners typically enter at GS-9 and progress rapidly to GS-11/12/13. Senior examiners and team leads reach GS-14. Career paths include specializing in specific exam areas (broker-dealer, investment adviser), transitioning to enforcement roles, or advancing to Branch Chief or regional leadership positions at SEC.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Securities Compliance Examiner" or "Examiner" at SEC. The SEC headquarters in DC and regional offices are the only employers for this exclusive series. Highlight accounting background, financial analysis skills, and knowledge of securities regulations. CPA, CFA, or Series licenses strengthen applications significantly.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.