Explore how your federal experience as a Architecture (GS-0808) 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 1-4 | Junior Architect, Architectural Intern, Assistant Architect | Assist in drafting and designing architectural plans, participate in site assessments, and support project teams in the preparation of design concepts and presentations. | $45,000 - $60,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 5-7 | Architect, Design Architect, Project Architect | Lead the design of architectural projects, coordinate with clients and multidisciplinary teams, develop detailed drawings, and manage project timelines and budgets. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 8-9 | Senior Architect, Lead Architect, Architectural Project Manager | Oversee the architectural design process, mentor junior architects, ensure compliance with building codes and regulations, and serve as the primary point of contact for clients. | $90,000 - $110,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 10-11 | Principal Architect, Senior Project Architect, Architectural Manager | Direct large-scale architectural projects, establish and enforce design standards, manage a team of architects and designers, and participate in business development efforts. | $115,000 - $140,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 12-13 | Director of Architecture, Architectural Group Leader, Vice President of Design | Set architectural vision for the firm, ensure successful execution of projects, manage relationships with high-profile clients, and spearhead strategic initiatives. | $145,000 - $175,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture Level 14-15 | Chief Architect, Executive Director of Architecture, Senior Vice President of Architecture | Define the organizational architecture strategy, lead architectural innovation, represent the firm at industry events, and manage key decision-making processes. | $180,000 - $220,000 |
| GS-0808 Architecture SES | Chief Executive Officer of Architecture Firm, Partner, Executive Architect | Drive overall company strategy, oversee all projects, build strategic partnerships, and ensure financial sustainability and growth of the architectural practice. | $225,000 - $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.
Licensed Architect (varies by state)
Obtaining a state license as an architect demonstrates a high level of professional competency and knowledge of architectural design, building codes, and ethics. It is a critical credential for many civilian positions, as it verifies that an individual can legally approve architectural plans and ensures compliance with regulations.
LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)
This certification shows expertise in green building practices and sustainability, which are increasingly important in civilian architecture roles. It helps professionals stand out in a market that prioritizes environmentally friendly designs and resource efficiency.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification demonstrates the ability to manage complex architectural projects effectively, showcasing skills in leadership, communication, and resource allocation. Employers in the civilian sector value this credential as it indicates a candidate can oversee and deliver projects on time and within budget.
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certificate
The NCARB Certificate is recognized nationwide and signifies that an architect has met the rigorous standards for professional practice, including education, experience, and examination. This certification can enhance employability across states and make it easier to transfer credentials between jurisdictions.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Certification
BIM certifications signify proficiency in using digital tools to improve design, collaboration, and overall project efficiency. In the civilian architecture industry, expertise in BIM is highly sought after as it aids in reducing errors and increasing productivity throughout the project lifecycle.
Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
The CCM certification provides credentials in construction management that demonstrate an understanding of project management principles and practices. This is particularly valuable for architecture professionals, as it shows competence in overseeing construction phases and ensuring adherence to designs.
Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) Coating Inspector
This certification emphasizes knowledge about protective coatings, which is crucial for certain architectural roles focused on building preservation and maintenance. It distinguishes professionals in sectors where environmental and safety regulations in construction and renovation are paramount.
Architectural Drafting and Design Associate's Degree
An associate degree in architectural drafting and design provides foundational knowledge in design principles, CAD software, and structural systems. This educational background is advantageous for entry-level positions and can be a stepping stone to advanced roles in architecture.
Bachelor's Degree in Architecture
A Bachelor’s degree in architecture provides essential theoretical and practical training in design, urban planning, and architectural history. It is often a prerequisite for professional licensure, equipping candidates with skills that are directly applicable to civilian architectural roles.
Master's Degree in Architecture (M.Arch)
An M.Arch degree prepares candidates for advanced practice settings and often includes specialized areas of study, such as urban design or landscape architecture. This higher-level education can provide a competitive edge in securing high-level positions within prestigious firms or in academic settings.
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-0808 Architecture role to the private sector can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Your previous government experience equips you with unique skills, and it’s vital to convey them effectively in your job search. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this transition smoothly.
Understand that the private sector often operates differently from federal settings. Here are some shifts to consider:
Embrace Flexibility and Innovation: In the private sector, there’s often a greater emphasis on flexibility, innovation, and rapid decision-making. Cultivate a mindset open to change and embrace creative problem-solving.
Value Your Unique Experience: Your federal background provides valuable insights into regulatory compliance, large-scale project management, and collaboration across diverse teams. Recognize the worth of these experiences in a commercial context.
Self-Promotion is Key: Unlike the federal space, where workloads and achievements might be measured less overtly, you’ll need to market yourself actively. Practice articulating your achievements and how they generate results.
A resume for private sector opportunities must be tailored to its audience. Here’s how to craft yours:
Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon specific to federal roles (like GS levels or specific federal mandates). Instead, use industry-relevant language. Instead of “Managed federal compliance,” try “Oversaw architectural compliance across multimillion-dollar projects.”
Highlight Accomplishments: Use quantifiable achievements when possible. For example, “Led a team of architects to complete 10+ high-stakes projects on time and under budget,” is much more impactful than stating your duties alone.
Focus on Transferable Skills: Emphasize skills such as project management, teamwork, leadership, and strategic planning that are universally valued across sectors.
Optimize Formatting: Keep your resume concise (one page if possible), and use bullet points for readability. Tailor it for each application by using keywords from the job description that match your experience.
Interviews in the private sector can be vastly different from federal processes. Here’s how to prepare:
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Practice the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique for answering behavioral questions. Highlight scenarios where you led projects, faced challenges, or collaborated successfully.
Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Understand the company’s culture and values. Show how your experience aligns with their mission and vision. Use specific examples from your work history to illustrate your point.
Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the company and industry. This shows your genuine interest in the role and organization.
Be Ready to Discuss Salary Expectations: Research industry salary standards for your role in the private sector. Know your worth and be prepared to discuss salary and benefits confidently.
Networking is a crucial aspect of the job search, especially in private industry:
Leverage Existing Networks: Start by reaching out to former colleagues, friends, or acquaintances who have made similar transitions. They can offer insights, referrals, or even potential job leads.
Attend Industry Events: Join architecture and design conferences, seminars, or webinars. Engage actively with fellow attendees.
Join Professional Associations: Becoming a member of relevant professional organizations can provide access to resources, job boards, and networking opportunities.
Utilize LinkedIn Effectively: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and make connections. Share your expertise by posting articles, participating in discussions, and connecting with industry leaders.
Converting federal terminology into a private sector context is essential:
Use Industry Terminology: Familiarize yourself with common terms used in the architecture field outside of government. Understand project management terms like "deliverables, scope, and stakeholder engagement."
Focus on Outcomes and Impact: Instead of explaining what you 'did,' emphasize the results of your work. For instance, rather than describing processes, illustrate how those processes improved efficiency, saved money, or enhanced project outcomes.
Be Forward-Thinking: While it's essential to reference your past experience, focus on how those experiences shape your vision for future roles. Discuss future trends in architecture and how you plan to address them based on your background.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0808 Architecture role to a private sector position is a journey that requires you to adapt and rethink how you present your skills and experiences. Keep a positive outlook, and remember that your wealth of knowledge can be a unique asset in the private sector. With the right mindset, tailored resume, effective interviewing techniques, and strategic networking, you’re well on your way to making a successful transition. Good luck!