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Federal Wage Grade position processing, developing, and printing motion picture film at federal archives, military media facilities, and government production centers.
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-9004
Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal motion picture processing position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Grade information not available
A Motion Picture Processor (WG-9004) processes, develops, and prints motion picture film at federal archives, military media facilities, and government production centers. Work involves operating film processing equipment, mixing chemical solutions, and ensuring proper development of footage. This legacy trade now focuses primarily on archival preservation of historical film collections.
Federal Motion Picture Processors are paid under the WG system with locality adjustments. WG-9004 positions are increasingly rare as digital technology has replaced film processing. Remaining archival positions typically range from WG-6 to WG-9. Check DCPAS wage schedules, but note that openings in this series are exceptionally limited.
WG-9004 positions require knowledge of film chemistry, processing equipment operation, and quality control procedures. Candidates must handle hazardous chemicals safely and maintain precise processing standards. This declining field now focuses on archival restoration rather than new production. Technical precision and chemical safety awareness are essential.
Military imagery or public affairs experience provides some relevant background for WG-9004. Veterans who worked in military media production or reconnaissance photography have transferable skills. However, this legacy trade has extremely limited openings. Consider digital imaging, archival technology, or media preservation roles that leverage similar technical skills.
Motion Picture Processing is a declining trade with minimal advancement opportunities as organizations have shifted to digital media. Remaining positions focus on preserving historical film collections at archives and museums. Veterans with chemistry and imaging skills should consider transitioning to digital media, forensic imaging, or archival preservation roles with better growth prospects.
Search USAJOBS for "Motion Picture Processing" or "9004"—openings are extremely rare. Most federal film processing has transitioned to digital. Remaining positions may exist at the National Archives, Smithsonian, or military historical centers. Consider related roles in digital imaging, archival preservation, or museum technology that have more opportunities. Veterans' preference applies.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.