fed2civ

GS-1720 Education Program Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Education Program (GS-1720) 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 to GS-4 Entry-Level Education Associate, Program Coordinator, Junior Education Consultant Assist in the development and delivery of educational programs. Support administrative tasks and coordinate scheduling for educational activities. Help gather data for program evaluation and maintain documentation. $35,000 - $45,000
GS-5 to GS-7 Education Program Specialist, Education Administrator, Training Program Coordinator Manage specific educational programs, including planning, implementation, and evaluation. Develop educational materials and assist in budgeting. Liaise with external organizations and stakeholders to promote program participation. $45,000 - $60,000
GS-8 to GS-9 Senior Education Program Manager, Training and Development Specialist, Education Policy Analyst Oversee the development and execution of educational initiatives and curriculum design. Conduct assessments to enhance program effectiveness and implement improvements. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with organizational goals. $60,000 - $80,000
GS-10 to GS-11 Education Program Director, Senior Training Manager, Education Development Officer Lead and direct education programs, establishing goals and evaluating outcomes. Manage team of coordinators and specialists, ensuring compliance with standards and regulations. Develop strategic partnerships for program funding and support. $80,000 - $100,000
GS-12 to GS-13 Director of Education Programs, Vice President of Training and Development, Senior Policy Advisor for Education Guide organizational education strategies and policies. Oversee multiple educational initiatives, providing direction and support to program managers. Conduct research on education trends and advocate for best practices in program implementation. $100,000 - $130,000
GS-14 to GS-15 Chief Education Officer, Senior Director of Educational Strategy, Education Executive Establish the strategic direction for all educational programs across the organization. Serve as a key representative in external collaborations and funding initiatives. Lead the evaluation and reporting on educational impacts and program success. $130,000 - $160,000
SES Senior Vice President of Education, Chief Learning Officer, Executive Director of Education Programs Drive the overall vision for educational initiatives at the organizational level. Align education strategies with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Engage with the board and senior leadership on educational impact and resource allocation. $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: Ability to design and implement educational programs tailored to specific learning needs, which is valuable in training and development roles in various industries.
  • • Instructional Design: Skills in creating engaging learning materials and experiences, useful in corporate training, e-learning, and instructional technology.
  • • Project Management: Experience coordinating educational projects, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholders, applicable in many business environments and non-profit organizations.
  • • Policy Analysis: Proficient in evaluating and developing educational policies and programs, relevant to roles in compliance, governance, and strategic planning in the private sector.
  • • Data Analysis: Ability to assess educational outcomes through data, applicable in research, analytics, and performance assessment roles.
  • • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills crucial for facilitating training sessions, workshops, and preparing reports, transferable to roles in marketing, public relations, and corporate communication.
  • • Collaboration: Experience working with diverse stakeholders—teachers, students, administrators—which translates well to teamwork in corporate settings and interdisciplinary projects.
  • • Program Evaluation: Skills in assessing educational programs for effectiveness can apply to program management and evaluation in various organizations.
  • • Leadership: Experience in leading educational initiatives and mentoring staff that can translate to management roles in civilian organizations.
  • • Cultural Competency: Understanding diverse student populations helps in roles that require sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and inclusivity in workplace environments.

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 a professional’s expertise in talent development and learning strategies, directly applicable to roles within education programs. Earning this certification can signal to potential employers in the civilian sector that the individual possesses a commitment to continuous learning and has the skills to enhance educational effectiveness.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    PMP certification showcases project management skills, which are essential in overseeing educational initiatives and programs effectively in the civilian sector. This certification equips professionals with the ability to manage resources, timelines, and stakeholder engagement, making them valuable assets to organizations looking to implement educational programs.

  • Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM)

    The CPTM certification focuses on the management of training programs, an essential function for those in educational roles. This certification provides practical knowledge and tools for improving training efficiency and effectiveness, giving individuals a competitive edge in civilian education-related positions.

  • Master's Degree in Education (M.Ed.)

    A Master’s degree in Education signifies advanced knowledge of educational theories and practices, making it highly relevant for the GS-1720 Education Program series. This qualification prepares individuals for a range of roles in the civilian sector, including curriculum development and educational leadership positions.

  • Instructional Designer/Developer Professional Certificate

    This certification enhances skills in creating effective educational programs and materials, key components of the GS-1720 series. In the civilian sector, having this certification demonstrates capability in utilizing technology and instructional strategies to meet diverse learning needs.

  • National Board Certification (NBC)

    Attaining National Board Certification reflects a rigorous process of professional development and teaching excellence, applicable to education program roles. This certification can distinguish candidates in the civilian job market by confirming their commitment to high standards in teaching and learning.

  • Education Technology Specialist Certification

    This certification focuses on integrating technology into educational settings, which is increasingly important in the modern educational landscape. For those transitioning to the civilian sector, this credential will enhance employability in roles that require tech-savvy skills for training and education delivery.

  • Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

    The CTDP certification demonstrates expertise in designing and implementing training programs, applicable to both governmental and civilian educational systems. This credential can set candidates apart in the civilian job market by showcasing their ability to contribute to organizational training strategies.

  • Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) Certificate

    A TESOL certificate is beneficial for individuals involved in educational programs targeting diverse populations and non-native English speakers. This qualification can open avenues in the civilian sector, particularly in programs focused on language acquisition and multicultural education.

  • Advanced Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction

    This advanced certificate provides specialized knowledge in curriculum development, an essential function of the GS-1720 series. It equips professionals with the skills to create and implement effective educational curricula, which is a highly sought-after capability in the civilian job market.

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.

  • Public and private universities
  • Community colleges
  • Vocational and technical schools
  • Educational consulting firms
  • Corporate training departments
  • Nonprofit educational organizations
  • K-12 private schools
  • E-learning companies
  • Education technology firms
  • Government contracting firms focusing on education services

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 transferable skills such as curriculum development, program evaluation, and instructional design when applying to civilian education roles.
  • Consider pursuing certifications in adult education or instructional design to enhance your qualifications for private sector positions.
  • Network with professionals in the education sector through LinkedIn or local organizations to gain insights and potential job leads.
  • Research civilian educational institutions, non-profits, or corporations that value educational program expertise for roles in training, outreach, or compliance.
  • Tailor your resume to civilian standards by focusing on outcomes and impact of your work in the federal position, using clear, jargon-free language.

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 focus on online and hybrid learning models: The shift towards digital education platforms has accelerated, creating demand for education program specialists who can develop and manage online curriculum and training programs.
  • 📈 Emphasis on STEM education: There is a growing emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, which may increase the need for professionals who can design and implement educational programs in these areas.
  • 📈 Integration of social-emotional learning: Educational programs are increasingly incorporating social-emotional learning and mental health support, leading to opportunities for education program specialists who can create programs addressing these needs.
  • 📈 Greater collaboration with community organizations: Education programs are increasingly partnering with community organizations to enhance learning experiences, making skills in collaboration and program development particularly valuable.
  • 📈 Focus on equity and accessibility in education: With a heightened awareness of issues related to equity, there may be increased demand for specialists who can develop educational programs that are inclusive and accessible to diverse populations.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a federal GS-1720 Education Program role to a private sector job can be both exciting and challenging. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this transition effectively and confidently.

Key Mindset Shifts

  1. Embrace Change: Moving from the structured environment of federal employment to the private sector often requires adapting to a more dynamic atmosphere. Embrace the uncertainty as an opportunity for growth.
  2. Value of Your Experience: Recognize that your experience in federal education programs brings a unique perspective and skill set that is highly valued in the private sector.
  3. A Shift in Priorities: Understand that while the mission-driven focus in the federal sector is admirable, the private sector often emphasizes profitability, efficiency, and innovation. Be prepared to articulate how your skills align with these priorities.
  4. Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The private sector values adaptability. Be ready to accept feedback, learn new technologies, and innovate in your new role.

Resume Tips

  1. Translate Your Experience: Federal job titles and jargon can be opaque to private sector recruiters. Frame your experience in terms relevant to the private sector. For example, instead of "Facilitated training programs to enhance educational proficiency," try "Developed and implemented training programs that improved organizational performance."
  2. Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to illustrate your impact. Instead of stating duties, highlight achievements: "Increased training participation by 40% through targeted outreach and improved curriculum development."
  3. Use the STAR Method: When describing accomplishments, use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to provide a clear, structured narrative that showcases your problem-solving abilities.
  4. Tailor Resumes for Each Job Application: Review job postings carefully and adapt your resume to emphasize the most relevant skills and experiences that match what the employer is seeking.
  5. Keep it Concise: Aim for a one-page resume if you have less than 10 years of experience, and two pages if you have more. Ensure clarity and relevance for the role you're applying for.

Interview Tips

  1. Practice Behavioral Interview Questions: Be prepared for behavioral interview questions that require you to discuss how you handled specific situations. Use the STAR method here as well.
  2. Understand Market Language: Familiarize yourself with terms commonly used in the industry you're applying for. Demonstrating that you understand the lingo can help bridge the gap between sectors.
  3. Show Enthusiasm for the Private Sector: Make it clear why you want to make this transition and what excites you about the prospective company and industry.
  4. Research the Company: Understand the company culture, mission, and recent news. Tailor your responses to reflect alignment with their values and objectives.
  5. Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking. Inquire about team dynamics, growth opportunities, or challenges the company is currently facing.

Networking Strategies

  1. Leverage LinkedIn: Create a compelling LinkedIn profile that highlights your key skills, experiences, and aspirations. Connect with former colleagues, industry professionals, and hiring managers.
  2. Attend Networking Events: Participate in local networking events, conferences, and workshops relevant to your field. This helps you meet industry insiders and learn about job openings firsthand.
  3. Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of professional organizations related to education, training, or the industry you want to move into. These groups often provide resources, mentorship, and job opportunities.
  4. Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals working in your desired field for informational interviews. This is a low-pressure way to gain insights and expand your network.
  5. Volunteer or Freelance: If possible, seek out volunteer opportunities or short-term freelance work in your target field. This not only adds experience to your resume but can also help you build connections.

Translating Federal Experience into Private Sector Language

  1. Focus on Skills and Outcomes: Properly framing your responsibilities in terms of skills gained and outcomes achieved makes your experience relatable.
  2. Industry Keywords: Research job postings to identify commonly used keywords and phrases. Incorporate these into your resume and conversations during networking and interviews.
  3. Share How You've Addressed Challenges: Private sector employers value problem solvers. Describe how you overcame specific challenges in your federal role and the positive outcomes of your actions.
  4. Highlight Collaborations: Emphasize your experience working in teams or leading projects that required cross-functional collaboration. This shows you can thrive in diverse work environments.
  5. Leverage Transferable Skills: Focus on skills such as project management, strategic planning, analysis, and communication. These are highly transferable and sought after in many private sector roles.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a federal GS-1720 Education Program role to the private sector can open new doors and bring rewarding experiences. Focus on understanding the cultural shift, translating your experiences into relevant language, and sharpening your networking skills. With preparation and a proactive mindset, you can successfully navigate this journey. Stay positive and persistent, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goals!