Explore how your federal experience as a Tax Examining (GS-0592) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Data Entry Clerk, Junior Tax Analyst, Tax Support Specialist | Perform basic data entry and assist in the preparation of tax documents. Support tax professionals by gathering information and resolving discrepancies with tax filings. | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| 5-7 | Tax Analyst, Tax Compliance Associate, Junior Tax Consultant | Analyze tax returns for accuracy and completeness. Assist in the preparation of tax related documentation and work on resolving client inquiries regarding tax matters. | $45,000 - $65,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Tax Analyst, Tax Compliance Specialist, Tax Operations Supervisor | Oversee the review of tax filings and ensure compliance with regulations. Provide guidance to junior staff and participate in audits of tax returns. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| 10-11 | Tax Manager, Senior Tax Consultant, Tax Operations Manager | Manage a team of tax professionals and oversee tax compliance for a portfolio of clients. Develop strategies for tax planning and implement operational improvements in the tax function. | $85,000 - $110,000 |
| 12-13 | Tax Director, Senior Tax Strategist, Head of Tax Compliance | Develop and implement tax strategies for the organization. Lead complex audits and ensure compliance with tax laws while liaising with regulatory agencies. | $110,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Tax Officer, Vice President of Tax, Global Tax Strategy Director | Oversee the organization's overall tax strategy and compliance program. Provide executive insights on tax planning and management, as well as representation during negotiations with tax authorities. | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Senior Vice President of Tax, Tax Executive Consultant, Chief Compliance Officer | Lead the tax function at the executive level, drive strategic tax initiatives, and ensure alignment with broader corporate goals. Engage with boards and senior leadership on high-stakes tax issues affecting the business. | $200,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
The CPA certification is highly regarded in the accounting and finance sectors, providing a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. For someone transitioning from the GS-0592 Tax Examining role, having a CPA can demonstrate advanced technical knowledge and ethical standards, making them more attractive to employers in accounting firms and corporations.
Enrolled Agent (EA)
The Enrolled Agent status is a tax professional authorized by the IRS to represent taxpayers in tax matters, which aligns closely with the skills developed in the Tax Examining series. Obtaining this certification can enhance job prospects in tax advisory roles and compliance positions, as it signifies a deep understanding of tax laws and regulations.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The CFA credential is recognized globally for investment management and financial analysis, equipping individuals with expertise in evaluating financial statements and decision-making based on financial data. This certification would be advantageous for GS-0592 employees transitioning to roles in finance and investment sectors, showcasing their analytical skills and depth of knowledge in financial matters.
Master of Accounting (MAcc) or related master's degree
Pursuing a Master of Accounting provides an advanced understanding of accounting principles, auditing, and tax regulations beyond what is covered in undergraduate studies. This degree would position a former GS-0592 employee for higher-level roles in finance and accounting, showcasing their commitment to professional growth and expertise.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The CMA certification focuses on financial management and strategic decision-making, which can complement the analytical skills developed in the Tax Examining series. This certification can facilitate a transition to positions in management accounting or corporate finance, demonstrating the ability to apply tax knowledge in broader financial contexts.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a Federal GS-0592 Tax Examining Role to the Private Sector:
Making the leap from a federal employment position to private sector roles can feel daunting, but with the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you can successfully navigate this transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the switch smoothly, emphasizing essential mindset shifts, resume crafting, interview preparation, networking, and translating your federal experience into the language of the private sector.
Embrace Change: Federal jobs often come with a structured environment, which might differ greatly from the dynamic nature of private sector positions. Cultivate an open-minded attitude to change, be flexible, and be prepared to adapt to new ways of doing things.
Self-Value Recognition: Transitioning from a GS position can sometimes make you doubt your worth in the private sector. Remember, your federal role provided you with valuable skills in tax examination, compliance, attention to detail, and customer service—all of which are highly sought after in the business world.
Growth Mindset: Understand that learning does not stop. Accept that you may not know everything about the private sector initially, but with effort and an eagerness to learn, you can bridge any knowledge gaps.
Translate Your Experience: Federal job titles and descriptions can be filled with jargon that might not resonate in the private sector. Frame your duties and achievements in terms understandable to hiring managers outside of the government. For example, instead of “Tax Examiner,” you might say “Tax Compliance Analyst” to communicate similar functions in a more recognizable way.
Focus on Accomplishments: Highlight specific achievements rather than listing duties. Use metrics to quantify your contributions—"Improved tax compliance accuracy by X% leading to a Y% increase in revenue collection."
Use Keywords: Analyze job postings in your desired industries. Identify recurring phrases and keywords that resonate with your target roles. Integrating this language into your resume will help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Length and Format: Keep your resume to 1-2 pages, utilizing bullet points for clarity. A clean, professional format is essential; avoid over-complex designs that could distract from your message.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Common in the private sector, these questions assess how you’ve handled specific situations in the past. Prepare using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and have examples ready from your federal experience that demonstrate problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.
Practice Articulation: Be prepared to explain how your skills (data analysis, regulatory compliance) translate into value for the organization you’re interviewing for. Avoid government jargon and strive for clarity and relatability.
Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Companies often prioritize cultural fit. Research the company’s values and mission beforehand, and align your answers to demonstrate how you share those values.
Ask Insightful Questions: Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare questions that indicate your interest in the company, such as inquiries about their challenges in tax compliance or how they deal with regulatory changes. This shows your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute.
Connect with Former Colleagues: Reach out to friends or former colleagues who have transitioned to the private sector. They can provide valuable insights, referrals, and tips on how to approach potential employers.
Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career aspirations, showcasing your federal experience while indicating your interest in private sector roles. Join relevant groups, engage with content, and start conversations.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in job fairs, seminars, and networking events related to finance, accounting, or tax law. This not only allows you to meet potential employers but also expands your knowledge of industry trends.
Informational Interviews: Request informational interviews with professionals in the field you are targeting. These can provide insights into transitioning successfully and help establish valuable connections.
Use Universal Job Titles: Instead of writing "Tax Examiner," consider titles like "Tax Analysts" or "Tax Consultant" that are more recognizable in the private sector.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, risk management, and communication are valued across industries. Emphasize these skills using language that speaks to industry standards, such as "data analysis" instead of "data entry."
Discuss Soft Skills: Every employer seeks candidates with strong interpersonal skills. Highlight your experiences where you’ve effectively communicated with stakeholders or worked collaboratively in teams.
Industry-Specific Language: Familiarize yourself with the terminologies and compliance challenges faced by private companies. This will illustrate your knowledge of the industry and positively impact your credibility.
Transitioning from federal employment to the private sector can seem challenging, but remember that your comprehensive training and experience have equipped you with a unique perspective valuable to potential employers. Approach this transition as an exciting opportunity for personal and professional growth. Take each step one at a time, seek out support, and most importantly, believe in your ability to thrive in a new environment.