Explore how your federal experience as a Materials Expediting (GS-6910) 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 | Junior Logistics Coordinator, Material Handler, Operations Assistant | Assist in the procurement and tracking of materials necessary for production; manage inventory levels; support senior team in expediting materials. | $30,000 - $40,000 |
| 5-7 | Logistics Coordinator, Materials Controller, Supply Chain Analyst | Coordinate the flow of materials from suppliers to production; analyze material needs and expedite orders to reduce lead times; provide reports on inventory status. | $45,000 - $60,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Logistics Specialist, Supply Chain Manager, Procurement Analyst | Oversee the sourcing, purchasing, and logistics of materials; develop strategies to optimize supply chain efficiency; collaborate with suppliers to resolve issues. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| 10-11 | Materials Manager, Supply Chain Supervisor, Logistics Project Manager | Manage the materials expediting team to ensure timely delivery of goods; implement best practices for material handling and procurement; liaise with cross-functional teams on supply chain projects. | $90,000 - $110,000 |
| 12-13 | Director of Supply Chain Management, Senior Procurement Manager, Logistics Operations Director | Develop and lead supply chain strategies that align with business objectives; manage budgets and resources; drive improvements in logistics performance and quality of service. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Vice President of Operations, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Global Logistics Executive | Set the vision and strategy for global supply chain operations; ensure operational excellence across materials management; engage with executive leadership to drive business growth. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive in Operations, Chief Operations Officer, Executive Director of Supply Chain | Steer the organization’s overall supply chain strategy; foster innovation in logistics processes and technology; represent the organization in high-level negotiations with key partners. | $210,000 - $300,000 |
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 demonstrates expertise in supply chain management, including materials management and inventory control, which are crucial for a Materials Expediting role. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end supply chain process, enhancing one's ability to optimize materials handling in civilian sectors.
Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM)
The CPIM certification focuses specifically on inventory management and production planning, key components of materials expediting. This credential equips individuals with the skills to effectively plan and control inventory, thus increasing efficiency and reducing costs in civilian manufacturing or logistics environments.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
A PMP certification signifies the ability to manage and lead projects effectively, which is applicable in materials expediting roles that require adherence to timelines and budgets. This skill set is highly valued in the civilian sector, where project management is often critical to successful supply chain operations.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Lean Six Sigma methodology focuses on process improvement and waste reduction, essential for enhancing materials flow and expediting operations. This certification provides a solid foundation in operational excellence, making candidates attractive to employers looking to streamline their processes.
APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
CLTD certification covers various aspects of logistics and distribution management, aligning closely with the duties of a materials expediter. Expertise in these areas enhances a candidate's ability to manage supply chain logistics effectively in the civilian job market.
Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management or Business Administration
A degree in supply chain management or business administration provides foundational knowledge in procurement, logistics, and operations management, which are integral to materials expediting. This educational background not only enhances understanding but also makes candidates more competitive in various civilian roles.
Associate Degree in Logistics or Operations Management
An associate degree in logistics or operations management offers technical skills relevant to the materials expediting field, such as inventory management and data analysis. This level of education can be advantageous for entry-level positions in the civilian sector, giving individuals a practical edge.
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-6910 Materials Expediting role to a position in the private sector can be a rewarding endeavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through this process, focusing on mindset shifts, resume crafting, interview preparation, networking strategies, and translating your federal experience into private sector language.
Embrace Flexibility: In the private sector, roles may evolve more quickly than in federal positions. Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. Understand that processes may not always be as rigid or bureaucratic.
Culture Adaptation: Be aware that corporate environments may prioritize culture differently than federal workplaces. Familiarize yourself with the company culture of the organizations you’re targeting, as they often emphasize teamwork, agility, and innovation.
Value Creativity and Initiative: Unlike the structured approach in federal roles, private sector jobs often encourage creative problem-solving. Cultivate a mindset that seeks innovative solutions and emphasizes the impact of your contributions.
Business Acumen: Familiarize yourself with business fundamentals. Understanding how organizations function economically will enhance your conversations and insights during interviews and networking.
Translate Job Titles and Responsibilities: Restructure your federal job title to something more recognizable in the private sector. For example, you could translate "Materials Expediting Specialist" to "Supply Chain Coordinator" or "Logistics Manager."
Focus on Outcomes: Highlight measurable results achieved in your role. Use metrics to illustrate your impact, such as cost savings, efficiency improvements, or team productivity gains.
Use Key Terms from the Private Sector: Research job postings in your desired field and include relevant keywords that match both the job descriptions and the experience you've gained. This may involve using terms like "project management," "supply chain optimization," and "vendor relations."
Simplify Terminology: Avoid government-specific language and jargon. Instead, use clear and accessible terms that demonstrate your skills without requiring knowledge of federal-specific processes.
Customize for Each Position: Tailor your resume for each job application. Analyze the job requirements and priorities, and ensure your resume aligns with them, showcasing relevant experience most applicable to the role.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Private sector interviews often include behavioral questions that aim to understand how you've handled situations in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses.
Demonstrate Soft Skills: Employers look for candidates with strong interpersonal skills. Use examples that highlight teamwork, communication, adaptability, and negotiation skills.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Transition: Clearly articulate why you're making the move from federal to private sector. Show enthusiasm for new challenges and the opportunity to apply your skills in new ways.
Ask Insightful Questions: Engage the interviewer with thoughtful questions about the company, team dynamics, and growth opportunities. This not only shows your interest but can also provide insights into their priorities and culture.
Practice Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends or career coaches. Practicing your responses will give you the confidence you need and help refine your delivery.
Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your transferable skills. Connect with professionals in your industry of interest, especially those who were former federal employees or in logistics roles.
Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of industry associations related to materials management and supply chain. Attend their events to meet professionals and learn more about potential career paths.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals in roles or companies you're interested in and request informational interviews. These conversations can provide valuable insights and expand your network.
Attend Industry Conferences & Workshops: Look for opportunities to attend conferences relevant to logistics and supply chain management. These events are great for networking and learning about the latest industry trends.
Utilize Alumni Networks: If you attended college or have professional training, leverage alumni networks to connect with those in the industry you're pursuing. Alumni can offer mentorship, job leads, and invaluable advice.
Highlight Relevant Projects: Focus on specific projects or initiatives where you made an impact. Emphasize how these experiences translate to private sector needs, such as efficiency gains, improvements in supply chain performance, or customer satisfaction initiatives.
Skills Over Titles: When discussing your experience, emphasize the skills you gained rather than the specific titles or bureaucratic processes. Skills such as procurement management, contract negotiation, and team leadership are valued across sectors.
Use Common Terminology: Avoid terminology unique to the federal government. For example, instead of referencing "federal regulations," discuss your experience with "compliance in supply chain management."
Broaden Your Experience: Highlight any cross-functional work you may have done with other departments, showcasing your ability to collaborate effectively—a key component in many private sector roles.
Transitioning from a federal GS-6910 Materials Expediting role to a private sector job may seem daunting, but it can open doors to exciting opportunities that leverage your unique skills and experience. By shifting your mindset, using practical resume and interview strategies, engaging in proactive networking, and expertly translating your federal experience into private sector language, you will enhance your chances of success. Remember, the journey of transition is also a chance for personal growth—embrace it with confidence and curiosity!