Explore how your federal experience as a Technical Information Services (GS-1412) 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-1 to GS-4 | Entry Level Technical Assistant, Junior Information Technology Specialist, Technical Support Associate | Provides basic technical support and assistance; performs data entry; assists senior staff with procedures and systems; supports users in troubleshooting common technical issues. | $35,000 - $45,000 |
| GS-5 to GS-7 | Technical Analyst, IT Support Specialist, Information Technology Associate | Manages minor technical projects; analyzes user requirements and system needs; assists in implementing database updates; troubleshoots and resolves moderate technical problems independently. | $45,000 - $60,000 |
| GS-8 to GS-9 | Senior Technical Specialist, Information Systems Analyst, Technical Information Officer | Oversees technical projects; provides guidance on technical issues; analyzes and recommends solutions for technology systems; collaborates with other departments for project implementation. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| GS-10 to GS-11 | Senior Information Technology Analyst, Technical Project Manager, Systems Integration Specialist | Leads technical projects and initiatives; responsible for system integration and improvement projects; evaluates emerging technologies to enhance operations; oversees team performance and development. | $80,000 - $100,000 |
| GS-12 to GS-13 | Technical Program Manager, Lead Information Technology Consultant, Senior Systems Architect | Manages large-scale technical programs; directs technical staff in complex projects; develops strategic technology roadmaps; represents the organization in technical forums and meetings. | $100,000 - $130,000 |
| GS-14 to GS-15 | Director of Technical Services, Chief Information Officer (CIO), Senior Technology Strategist | Leads the technical services division; responsible for strategic planning and policy development; oversees significant budgets and staffing; ensures alignment of IT goals with organizational objectives. | $130,000 - $160,000 |
| SES | Executive Vice President of Technology, Senior Vice President for Digital Strategy, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | Sets the technology vision and strategy for the organization; accountable for all technology-related initiatives and operations; fosters innovation and ensures the effective use of technology to drive business outcomes. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
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.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification demonstrates a solid understanding of project management principles and practices, which are essential in technical information services roles when managing projects related to information technology and data management. This certification enhances leadership skills and the ability to effectively manage resources, timelines, and stakeholder communication, making candidates more competitive in the civilian job market.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
CISSP certification illustrates expertise in information security, crucial for IT professionals who deal with sensitive technical information in the GS-1412 series. As organizations increasingly prioritize cybersecurity, holding this credential provides a significant edge, highlighting one's commitment to safeguarding information and systems.
ITIL Foundation Certification
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) certification provides a foundational understanding of IT service management best practices, which are vital in technical information services roles. This knowledge helps professionals implement efficient processes in civilian organizations, streamlining operations, and improving customer satisfaction.
CompTIA Project+
CompTIA Project+ is an entry-level project management certification that is highly relevant for professionals managing technical projects within the GS-1412 series. Gaining this certification indicates a capacity to manage project constraints effectively, making the individual more attractive to civilian employers seeking project-oriented managers.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
CISA certification focuses on auditing, control, and assurance aspects of information systems, which aligns well with the responsibilities of GIS professionals regarding data integrity and security. The credential enhances an individual's credibility and marketability in civilian roles that require rigorous oversight and compliance with regulatory standards.
Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
The PMI-ACP certification demonstrates proficiency in Agile practices, which can enhance flexibility and responsiveness in managing technical information projects. Civilians organizations are increasingly adopting Agile methodologies, making this certification advantageous for professionals looking to improve their adaptability and innovation in project execution.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
This certification validates advanced skills in designing cloud services and infrastructure, highly relevant for current trends in technical information services as organizations move towards cloud solutions. It provides an edge in the competitive job market by showcasing expertise in a specialized and sought-after technical area.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CCNA certification establishes foundational networking knowledge and skills, which are critical in technical information services where network management is a key responsibility. This certification positions an individual favorably for roles that require networking expertise in civilian organizations.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
This certification verifies ability in designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS, which is pertinent as many organizations migrate to cloud infrastructures. Holding this certification signifies to potential employers a solid understanding of cloud architecture, making candidates more appealing in technology-driven civilian roles.
Data Management Professional (DMP)
The DMP credential signifies a deep understanding of data governance, management, and analytics, all of which are essential for professionals in technical information services. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, this certification will enhance one’s qualifications and attractiveness to civilian employers.
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-1412 Technical Information Services role to a private sector job can be both exciting and challenging. You possess a wealth of experience and skills; now it’s time to effectively communicate and leverage them for a successful transition. Here is a comprehensive guide to navigate this change.
Embrace Change: Transitioning to the private sector is a significant change in culture and operational style. Be open to adapting your approach and embracing the fast-paced nature of the private job market.
Value Your Experience: Your federal experience provides a unique perspective and transferable skills. Understand that your background in Technical Information Services gives you a competitive edge, particularly in technology-focused roles in the private sector.
Focus on Impact: In the private sector, there is often a stronger focus on quantifiable results and impact. Shift your mindset to think and articulate the effects of your work, including cost savings, efficiency improvements, and stakeholder satisfaction.
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Use job descriptions to identify keywords and requirements that match your experience. Tailoring ensures that your resume aligns closely with the job and helps you pass through ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).
Translate Federal Terminology: Federal job titles, acronyms, and terminology may not resonate with civilian employers. Replace jargon with more commonly understood terms. For example, instead of saying "Program Administrator," you might use "Project Manager."
Demonstrate Achievements: Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) methodology to clearly outline your accomplishments. Highlight specific projects or initiatives you've led, detailing what you did and the positive outcomes that resulted. Quantify your results whenever possible (e.g., "increased efficiency by 20%").
Skills Section: Emphasize both hard and soft skills that are relevant to the private sector. Skills like data analysis, problem-solving, project management, and interpersonal communication are often sought after in business environments.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Expect behavioral interview questions that ask you to describe specific experiences. Practice answering these questions using the STAR method: provide a concise overview of the situation, your tasks, actions taken, and the results achieved.
Research the Company: Show genuine interest in the company you're interviewing with. Familiarize yourself with its products, services, culture, and recent achievements. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your responses and ask insightful questions.
Cultural Fit: Federal and private sectors differ significantly in culture. Be ready to discuss how your background allows you to adapt to a corporate environment. Highlight your ability to work in teams, your flexibility, and your problem-solving abilities.
Ask Relevant Questions: During interviews, ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company’s goals. Questions about team dynamics, company culture, or the direction of projects demonstrate that you are thinking long-term about your fit within their organization.
Leverage Existing Connections: Start with your current network. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and acquaintances who may have moved to the private sector. They can provide insight, advice, or even job opportunities.
Use LinkedIn Effectively: Optimize your LinkedIn profile by highlighting your federal experience while incorporating private-sector-friendly language. Engage with industry-related posts, join relevant groups, and connect with professionals who work at companies of interest to you.
Attend Networking Events: Participate in industry conferences, workshops, and seminars. These events provide opportunities to meet professionals in your desired field, exchange ideas, and stay in the loop on industry trends.
Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews with individuals in roles you aspire to. This is a great way to gather information about typical career paths and responsibilities in the private sector while expanding your professional network.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Identify the skills that are transferable from your federal role to the position you are applying for. Emphasize your technical acumen, analytical abilities, and project management experience that are relevant across sectors.
Use Business Language: Adapt your communication style to include business vernacular. For instance, rather than stating that you "managed a task force," say that you "led a cross-functional team to achieve strategic objectives."
Quantify Your Experience: Use numbers to strengthen your claims. Instead of saying you "improved a process,” articulate that you "reduced processing time by 30% through redesigned procedures."
Focus on Results Over Processes: The private sector prefers results-driven narratives over process descriptions. Emphasize how your contributions have led to positive outcomes for your agency or stakeholders.
Transitioning to the private sector is not just about finding a new job; it is about reframing your experience, building connections, and positioning yourself as a strong candidate. Embrace the journey of personal and professional growth. Stay positive, persistent, and proactive in your approach. With the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you will successfully transition from a federal role to a fulfilling private sector career.