fed2civ

GS-1712 Training Instruction Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Training Instruction (GS-1712) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.

GS Level Mappings

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 1-4 Training Assistant, Junior Instructional Designer, Entry-Level Training Coordinator Assist in the development and delivery of training programs and materials. Support seasoned trainers in administrative tasks, curriculum implementation, and participant management. $35,000 - $55,000
GS 5-7 Training Specialist, Instructional Designer, Training Coordinator Design, implement, and evaluate training programs. Conduct needs assessments and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment of training objectives with organizational goals. $55,000 - $75,000
GS 8-9 Senior Training Specialist, Lead Instructional Designer, Training and Development Manager Oversee training programs, manage a team of trainers, and ensure the effectiveness of training materials. Analyze training impact on performance and suggest improvements based on participant feedback. $75,000 - $95,000
GS 10-11 Training Manager, Program Development Manager, Corporate Trainer Direct training initiatives across the organization. Evaluate training needs and develop comprehensive training strategies. Coordinate with upper management to align training with business goals. $95,000 - $115,000
GS 12-13 Training and Development Director, Organizational Development Consultant, Senior Educational Program Manager Establish and execute training processes at a strategic level. Work closely with executive leadership to design long-term training plans that promote company-wide development and talent retention. $115,000 - $135,000
GS 14-15 Vice President of Training and Development, Chief Learning Officer, Talent Development Executive Lead the corporate learning strategies and ensure alignment with overall business strategies. Drive innovation in training delivery and manage a large team of training professionals to maximize employee growth and performance. $135,000 - $160,000
SES Senior Vice President of Learning and Development, Chief Talent Officer, Executive Director of Organizational Development Set the vision and strategy for training and development across the enterprise. Collaborate with C-suite executives to integrate learning into the corporate culture and drive business outcomes through leadership development and workforce planning. $160,000 - $200,000

Transferable Skills

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.

  • • Curriculum Development
  • • Training Needs Analysis
  • • Instructional Design
  • • Facilitation Skills
  • • Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
  • • Performance Evaluation and Assessment
  • • Technical Writing and Documentation
  • • Group Dynamics Management
  • • Adaptability in Learning Environments
  • • Teaching and Coaching
  • • Project Management
  • • Interpersonal Communication
  • • Learning Management Systems (LMS) Proficiency
  • • Research and Analysis Skills
  • • Time Management and Organization

Certifications & Education

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 Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

    The CPLP certification demonstrates expertise in designing and delivering effective training programs, which is essential in roles that involve instructional design and training delivery. This credential is recognized across various industries and will enhance credibility while showcasing a commitment to professional development.

  • Adult Learning Theory Certification

    Understanding adult learning principles is critical for training professionals, and obtaining a certification in adult learning theories provides valuable skills for curriculum development tailored to adult learners. This knowledge is highly transferable to civilian roles, making candidates more effective in delivering engaging and impactful training.

  • Instructional Designer Certificate

    An instructional design certificate focuses on the skills needed to create educational programs and training materials effectively. This credential equips individuals with the latest methodologies and technologies used in the field, providing a competitive edge when applying for civilian training roles.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    The PMP certification demonstrates project management expertise, which is crucial for overseeing training projects and ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget. This certification is highly valued in the civilian workforce, as it indicates strong organizational and leadership skills.

  • Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+)

    The CTT+ certification verifies proficiency in delivering technical training and ensures that instructors are equipped with effective teaching strategies. This certification can enhance job prospects in any organization that seeks individuals capable of educating staff on complex technical subjects.

Typical Employers

See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.

  • Corporate Training Firms
  • Educational Institutions (Colleges and Universities)
  • Professional Development Organizations
  • Corporate Human Resources Departments
  • Consulting Firms specializing in Training and Development
  • Government Contracting Firms
  • Health Care Training Providers
  • Technology Firms with Internal Training Programs
  • Nonprofits focused on Workforce Development
  • Military Training Contractors

Career Transition Advice

Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.

  • Highlight your instructional design skills: Emphasize your ability to create effective training programs, as this is highly valued in civilian roles, especially in corporate training and development.
  • Leverage your experience with diverse learning environments: Showcase your adaptability in training various audiences, which can appeal to organizations looking for versatile trainers and facilitators.
  • Network within industry associations: Join training and development organizations such as ATD (Association for Talent Development) to meet professionals in the field and discover job opportunities.
  • Tailor your resume to civilian standards: Use clear, concise language to translate your federal experience into civilian terms; focus on skills that reflect the competencies sought after in job postings.
  • Consider certifications in training and development: Obtaining credentials such as CPTD (Certified Professional in Talent Development) can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive in the civilian job market.

Industry Trends

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.

  • 📈 Increased adoption of hybrid and remote learning environments, leading to a demand for training instructors skilled in virtual training methodologies and technology.
  • 📈 Growing emphasis on continuous employee upskilling and reskilling in response to rapid technological advancements, increasing opportunities for training instructors to design and deliver relevant training programs.
  • 📈 The integration of data analytics and learning management systems in training programs, requiring instructors to be adept at utilizing these tools to track training effectiveness and learner progress.
  • 📈 Focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training in the workplace, prompting a rise in demand for instructors who can facilitate DEI-focused training sessions and workshops.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a federal GS-1712 Training Instruction role to the private sector can be a rewarding yet challenging journey. Here are some key considerations and practical steps to help you navigate this transition effectively:

Mindset Shifts

  1. Embrace Change: Understand that the private sector operates differently from the federal government. Cultivate a mindset that is open to change and adaptable to new environments.

    • Action Step: Be prepared to adjust your working style to a more fast-paced, results-oriented approach.

  2. Focus on Results: The private sector often measures success based on quantifiable outcomes. Shift your focus from process-driven activities to results-based achievements.

    • Action Step: Set specific, measurable goals in your current role that can demonstrate your ability to generate results.

  3. Think Entrepreneurially: Many private sector roles encourage innovation and risk-taking. Start thinking like an entrepreneur by being proactive and solution-focused.

    • Action Step: Identify challenges in your current work environment and propose innovative solutions.

Resume Tips

  1. Translate Federal Terminology: Federal job titles and descriptions can be jargon-heavy. Simplify your language and focus on general skills and achievements that any employer would understand.

    • Action Step: Instead of "developed training programs under OPM guidelines," say "designed engaging training programs that improved employee performance by X%."

  2. Highlight Transferable Skills: Key skills from your federal role—such as instructional design, facilitation, and adult learning principles—are valuable in many industries. Clearly list these skills.

    • Action Step: Use a skills matrix or a summary section at the top of your resume to highlight these competencies.

  3. Quantify Achievements: Concrete numbers can make your accomplishments stand out. Include metrics that showcase your impact.

    • Action Step: Instead of vague statements, say “Led a training initiative that reduced onboarding time by 30%.”

Interview Tips

  1. Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Private sector interviews often focus on behavioral questions that assess how you handled past situations. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to frame your responses.

    • Action Step: Prepare 5-7 key STAR responses that highlight your most impressive accomplishments.

  2. Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Employers are looking for candidates who are excited about their company and the position. Convey passion and enthusiasm during interviews.

    • Action Step: Research the company’s culture and demonstrate how your values align with theirs.

  3. Ask Insightful Questions: This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is a fit for you. Questions about team dynamics, scaling challenges, and growth opportunities can be insightful.

    • Action Step: Prepare 4-5 thoughtful questions that reflect your research into the company and the role.

Networking Strategies

  1. Build Your Professional Network: Networking is crucial in the private sector. Start reaching out to former colleagues, friends, and industry professionals to build connections.

    • Action Step: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with individuals in your target industry, join professional groups, and participate in discussions.

  2. Attend Industry Events: Conferences, workshops, and local meetups can provide valuable networking opportunities and industry insights.

    • Action Step: Attend at least one event per month and aim to make meaningful connections with attendees.

  3. Informational Interviews: Reach out to people in roles you are interested in and request informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and the skills needed.

    • Action Step: Prepare questions in advance to ensure you get valuable information during these conversations.

Translating Federal Experience

  1. Use Common Business Language: Illustrate your experiences in a way that resonates with private sector employers by reframing federal terminology into business concepts.

    • Example: Change “compliance training” to “employee performance improvement initiatives.”

  2. Showcase Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and leadership skills are critical in any environment. Highlight your soft skills as equally as your technical abilities.

    • Action Step: Provide examples of successful collaboration and communication in your federal role that would resonate with a private employer.

  3. Adapt to Company Culture: Research the companies you are applying to and adapt your application materials and interview approach to reflect their culture and values.

    • Action Step: Customize your resume and cover letter for each application, incorporating keywords from the job description that align with your experience.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a federal GS-1712 Training Instruction role to the private sector can be an empowering step towards new opportunities. By adjusting your mindset, refining your resume and interview skills, expanding your network, and effectively translating your experience, you will position yourself as a strong candidate for the private sector. Stay confident in your abilities and remember that your skills are valuable—many employers are eager to harness the unique perspectives and experiences that federal employees bring.