Explore how your federal experience as a Laundry Operations Services (GS-1658) 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 | Laundry Aide, Junior Laundry Technician, Entry-Level Laundry Operator | Assist in the daily operations of the laundry, including sorting, washing, drying, folding, and distribution of clean items. Maintain cleanliness and organization of laundry equipment and supplies. | $25,000 - $35,000 |
5-7 | Laundry Operations Technician, Laundry Services Coordinator, Laundry Supervisor | Oversee laundry operations, manage staff schedules, ensure quality control of laundry services, handle inventory management of supplies, and train new employees in equipment usage and safety protocols. | $35,000 - $55,000 |
8-9 | Laundry Operations Manager, Director of Laundry Services, Laundry Facility Manager | Lead laundry operations, develop and implement operational procedures, manage budgets, liaise with vendors, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations while optimizing operational efficiency. | $55,000 - $75,000 |
10-11 | Regional Laundry Operations Director, Laundry Services Division Manager, Senior Laundry Operations Analyst | Direct multiple laundry facilities, establish policies for service delivery, conduct performance analysis, implement training programs, and report on operational metrics to upper management. | $75,000 - $100,000 |
12-13 | Laundry Services Executive, Vice President of Laundry Operations, Senior Director of Laundry Services | Strategically lead the laundry division, oversee business development initiatives, collaborate with senior executives on operational improvements, and manage large-scale budgets and resource allocations. | $100,000 - $130,000 |
14-15 | Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Laundry Services, Executive Vice President of Operations, Senior Vice President of Facilities Management | Formulate and execute the overall strategy for laundry services across all locations, drive innovation in service delivery, oversee high-level financial and operational decisions, and engage with key stakeholders on crucial business strategies. | $130,000 - $170,000 |
SES | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Laundry Services Corporation, Executive Director of National Laundry Operations, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) in Laundering Innovations | Set the vision for the entire organization, influence industry standards, engage with public entities and stakeholders, manage multi-million dollar overall budgets, and guide organizational growth through strategic planning and policy development. | $170,000 - $250,000 |
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 Laundry & Linen Specialist (CLLS)
The Certified Laundry & Linen Specialist credential demonstrates expertise in laundry service management, including processing, safety, and sanitation standards, which are crucial in both federal and civilian environments. Receiving this certification can help individuals stand out to employers in industries such as hospitality and healthcare by showcasing a commitment to quality and efficiency in laundry operations.
Certified Environmental Services Administrator (CESA)
The CESA credential focuses on best practices in environmental services management, emphasizing cleanliness and quality standards across various settings, including laundry operations. This training can provide a competitive edge in the civilian sector, where adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations is essential for success in facilities management.
Textile Care and Management Certificate
This certificate provides specialized knowledge about textile properties, care processes, and the operational aspects of laundry services. It’s advantageous for transitioning individuals as it equips them with applicable skills directly related to managing and improving laundry operations in commercial settings.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification demonstrates proficiency in process improvement and efficiency, which can be highly valuable in optimizing laundry services operations. This certification is essential in the private sector where companies strive for cost reductions and enhanced service delivery.
Facilities Management Professional (FMP)
The FMP certification covers various aspects of facility management, including maintenance and operational management, which are relevant to managing a laundry facility. This credential can enhance one's marketability by showcasing skills in overall facility management beyond just laundry operations.
Safety Management Training Certification
This certification focuses on workplace safety standards, hazardous material handling, and occupational health regulations, which are crucial in a laundry operations environment. Having this certification is beneficial in civilian roles where safety is a top priority, helping employers ensure a safe work environment for employees.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification indicates a professional's ability to lead and direct projects effectively, which is valuable in managing laundry service initiatives or improvements. For job seekers in the civilian sector, this certification can demonstrate their capability to handle operations at a strategic level.
Basic Sewing and Alterations Certification
This certification highlights skills in fabric and garment repair, which can be an asset in laundry operations that also involve alterations or repairs. Prospective employers appreciate versatile candidates who can manage a variety of textile-related tasks, contributing to comprehensive service offerings.
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-1658 Laundry Operations Services role to a private sector job can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and strategic approach, you can make this change successfully. Let's explore key areas to focus on during your transition: mindset shifts, resume enhancements, interview preparation, networking strategies, and translating your federal experience to private sector language.
Transitioning to the private sector is a journey that requires patience and effort, but remember that your experiences in federal service have equipped you with a wealth of skills that are highly valued in the private sector. Approach this transition with confidence and be proactive in showcasing your capabilities. Stay committed to your goals, and don’t hesitate to seek support from mentors or professional coaches along the way. With the right strategies, you can successfully navigate this change and find a rewarding new role in the private sector.