Explore how your federal experience as a Materials Handler (GS-6907) 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 | Warehouse Associate, Shipping and Receiving Clerk, Material Handler, Inventory Control Associate | Responsible for receiving, storing, and distributing materials in a warehouse setting. Tasks include lifting and moving items, maintaining inventory accuracy, and ensuring proper organization of materials. | $25,000 - $35,000 |
| 5-7 | Logistics Coordinator, Supply Chain Associate, Warehouse Supervisor, Inventory Specialist | Manages day-to-day operations in the warehouse, including inventory management, shipping and receiving processes, and staff supervision. Ensures compliance with safety standards and processes. | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| 8-9 | Warehouse Manager, Logistics Analyst, Operations Supervisor, Materials Management Specialist | Oversees the warehouse or storage operations, optimizing inventory management and logistics processes. Develops workflows, improves efficiency, and manages a team of warehouse staff. | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 10-11 | Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Senior Logistics Manager, Warehouse Operations Manager | Leads multiple teams in warehouse operations, formulating strategies to enhance productivity and streamline processes. Responsible for budget management and cross-departmental coordination. | $70,000 - $90,000 |
| 12-13 | Director of Supply Chain, Logistics Program Manager, Senior Operations Director, Materials Planning Director | Directs supply chain and logistics programs, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Responsible for overseeing large-scale operations, policy development, and team leadership. | $90,000 - $120,000 |
| 14-15 | Vice President of Logistics, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Director of Operations Strategy, Global Operations Director | Sets the strategic vision for logistics and supply chain operations across the organization. Focus on long-term planning, cross-functional leadership, and driving organizational effectiveness. | $120,000 - $160,000 |
| SES | Senior Vice President of Operations, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain, Chief Operations Officer | Provides executive leadership for all operations and logistics functions within the organization. Ensures strategic alignment with business goals and oversees comprehensive operational initiatives and performance metrics on a global scale. | $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.
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
The CSCP certification provides individuals with comprehensive knowledge of supply chain management, covering topics such as supplier and customer relationships, as well as logistics and operations. This knowledge is directly applicable to the Materials Handler role, as it helps in understanding the broader context of materials management and supply chain efficiency, enhancing job performance in civilian logistics positions.
Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
The CPIM certification focuses on production and inventory management principles, offering a deep dive into inventory control, planning, and scheduling. For a Materials Handler, having this certification demonstrates a strong grasp of inventory processes and can signal to civilian employers that the candidate is equipped to optimize inventory systems effectively.
Warehouse Management Certification (WMC)
WMC provides insights into warehouse operations, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and distribution strategies. This certification is particularly advantageous for those transitioning to civilian roles as it showcases expertise in managing physical logistics, a crucial aspect in various operations-focused positions.
Forklift Operator Certification
Acquiring a Forklift Operator Certification ensures proficiency in the safe operation of powered industrial trucks, a critical skill for materials handling roles. This certification not only enhances employment eligibility but also reduces workplace accidents, making candidates more attractive to potential civilian employers.
Logistics Management Certification (LMC)
The LMC covers fundamental concepts in logistics and supply chain management, emphasizing the importance of effective logistics operations. Gaining this certification equips individuals with skills that are highly sought after in the civilian sector, enabling smooth operations and efficient resource management.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Lean Six Sigma methodologies focus on improving processes and eliminating waste in supply chain and materials handling environments. Obtaining this certification provides a competitive edge by demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and operational efficiency, which are key components in many civilian roles.
OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Training
The OSHA 30-Hour training ensures knowledge of workplace safety regulations and practices, which is essential in materials handling to mitigate risks. Completing this training not only certifies compliance with safety standards but also signals a responsible approach to health and safety, boosting a candidate's appeal to private sector employers.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification signifies advanced project management skills, which are vital when overseeing material handling projects or logistics initiatives. Civilian employers value these skills as they demonstrate an ability to manage complex tasks, timelines, and team coordination effectively.
Certified Materials & Resource Professional (CMRP)
The CMRP certification emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of materials management practices, including procurement, inventory control, and quality assurance. This credential is particularly relevant for Materials Handlers as it provides an in-depth view of the lifecycle of materials, enhancing employability in resource management roles in the civilian sector.
Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management or Logistics
A degree in Supply Chain Management or Logistics provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for efficient materials handling and logistics operations. This educational background is highly regarded by civilian employers and helps candidates stand out in a competitive job market, showing a formal and comprehensive understanding of the field.
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-6907 Materials Handler role to a private sector job can be both exciting and daunting. Many federal employees possess skills highly sought after by private sector employers, but the process of moving from public to private can seem overwhelming. Here are some key strategies to help you navigate this transition.