Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Inspection
Performs ATF inspection work including compliance inspections of licensed businesses and enforcement activities.
💰GS-1854 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 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
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-1854
⚠️ CANCELLED SERIES\n\nThis occupational series has been officially cancelled by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM).\n\nStatus: Cancelled\n\nReplacement Series:\n- GS-1801: General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance Series\n- GS-1811: Criminal Investigation Series\n\nNote: If you are interested in this type of work, please search for the replacement series listed above.
🎖️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-1854
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal alcohol, tobacco and firearms inspection 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.
📋Typical Duties
- •Conduct compliance inspections
- •Review business records
- •Verify regulatory compliance
- •Investigate violations
- •Prepare inspection reports
- •Recommend enforcement actions
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of ATF regulations and laws.
Skill in conducting compliance inspections.
Ability to investigate regulatory violations.
Skill in gathering and preserving evidence.
Ability to prepare inspection and investigation reports.
Skill in working with licensees and the public.
Ability to take appropriate enforcement actions.
Skill in reviewing records and documentation.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-1854
What is an ATF Inspection Specialist?
NOTE: GS-1854 Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Inspection is a CANCELLED series. This occupational classification has been officially discontinued by OPM. ATF inspection and investigation work is now covered under GS-1801 (General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement) and GS-1811 (Criminal Investigation) series. If you are interested in this type of work, search for those replacement series.
What replaced the ATF Inspection series?
The GS-1854 ATF Inspection series was consolidated into GS-1801 for inspection and compliance work and GS-1811 for criminal investigation (Special Agent) positions. ATF Industry Operations Investigators now typically fall under GS-1801, while ATF Special Agents are classified under GS-1811.
How do I become an ATF Inspector or Agent instead?
For ATF compliance inspection work, search USAJOBS for Industry Operations Investigator (IOI) positions at ATF, typically classified under GS-1801. For ATF criminal investigation (Special Agent), search for GS-1811 Criminal Investigator positions at Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
What are the requirements for ATF positions now?
ATF Industry Operations Investigators (IOI) under GS-1801 require a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in inspection, investigation, or compliance work. ATF Special Agents under GS-1811 require meeting law enforcement requirements including physical fitness, firearms qualification, and passing extensive background investigation.
Can military experience qualify for ATF positions?
Yes, military experience is valued at ATF. Veterans with military police, explosive ordnance, criminal investigation, or security experience have relevant backgrounds. For Special Agent positions, combat arms and weapons expertise provide unique qualifications. Veterans preference points apply to both IOI and Special Agent hiring.
Where can I find current ATF jobs?
Search USAJOBS.gov for "ATF" or "Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives" to find current openings. Look for Industry Operations Investigator (IOI) positions for compliance work or Special Agent positions for criminal investigation. ATF has field offices nationwide and headquarters in Washington, DC.
Ready to Apply for GS-1854?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.