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Laboratory Working
This standard covers nonsupervisory work requiring ability to clean, prepare for sterilization, sterilize, and assemble laboratory and hospital glassware, instruments, and related items. This work includes such tasks as sorting and loading items into washing machine baskets; operating washing machines, sterilizers, water stills, and centrifuges; preparing flasks, beakers, vials, test tubes, and dishes by capping, corking, plugging, and wrapping; of glassware, instruments, tubing, adapters, conne
What WG-3511 pays
Federal Wage System pay is set by local prevailing wage surveys, so it moves with the wage area rather than a national table.
Wage Grade rates are published per wage area rather than nationally, so the number that matters is the one for the installation you are applying to.
Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service wage schedules.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for WG-3511, as written.
Laboratory Working
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard covers nonsupervisory work requiring ability to clean, prepare for sterilization, sterilize, and assemble laboratory and hospital glassware, instruments, and related items. This work includes such tasks as sorting and loading items into washing machine baskets; operating washing machines, sterilizers, water stills, and centrifuges; preparing flasks, beakers, vials, test tubes, and dishes by capping, corking, plugging, and wrapping; of glassware, instruments, tubing, adapters, connectors, etc., into a composite unit.
Working Conditions
that may be of an "unusual nature" as defined in Appendix A to subpart E of part 532 of title 5, Code of Federal Regulations. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 2 Laboratory Working, 3511 TS-18 December 1971
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 WG-3511
1Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
2Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
3Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages, the same USAJOBS limit that has applied since 27 September 2025. Lead with hands-on trade experience: the tools and equipment you ran, safety training, the projects you finished, and hours worked per week.
5Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Typical duties
- Perform laboratory working tasks as assigned
- Follow safety procedures and regulations
- Maintain and operate tools and equipment
- Complete work orders and documentation
- Coordinate with team members and supervisors
Key competencies
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations
Knowledge of tools and equipment for the trade
Skill in performing physical tasks requiring manual dexterity
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to read and interpret instructions and procedures
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 WG-3511
What is a Laboratory Worker?
A Laboratory Worker (WG-3511) cleans, prepares, sterilizes, and assembles laboratory and hospital glassware, instruments, and related items. They operate washing machines, sterilizers, water stills, and centrifuges while preparing flasks, beakers, test tubes, and other laboratory equipment for use.
How much does a federal Laboratory Worker make?
WG-3511 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $17-$28 per hour depending on locality and skill level. Annual earnings range $35,000-$58,000. Hospital and research laboratory workers may earn premium rates.
What are the requirements for WG-3511 positions?
WG-3511 requires ability to clean and sterilize laboratory equipment properly. Qualifications include operating sterilization equipment, handling glassware carefully, following contamination control procedures, and understanding proper preparation techniques for scientific use.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-3511?
Yes, military medical and laboratory support experience qualifies. MOSs like Army 68K (Medical Laboratory Specialist), Navy HM (Hospital Corpsman), or any rating involving laboratory or medical equipment support provides relevant experience for WG-3511 positions.
What is the career progression for Laboratory Working?
Laboratory Workers progress through skill levels within the series. Career advancement includes transitioning to GS laboratory technician positions, medical equipment repair, or specialized scientific support roles. Many move to GS-0600 (Medical) series positions.
How do I apply for WG-3511 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Laboratory Worker' or series '3511.' Positions exist at VA medical centers, military hospitals, and federal research laboratories. Highlight your sterile technique knowledge, equipment handling experience, and attention to detail. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to apply for WG-3511?
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.