Explore how your federal experience as a Work Unit Supervising (GS-0313) 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 to GS-4 | Administrative Assistant, Receptionist, Support Staff Supervisor, Junior Operations Manager | Assist in the coordination of administrative tasks, manage routine office procedures, facilitate communication between departments, and supervise entry-level staff. | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| GS-5 to GS-7 | Office Manager, Team Lead, Operations Coordinator, Project Coordinator | Oversee a small team, ensure efficient workflow, manage office supplies and inventory, handle scheduling and reporting, and assist upper management with project execution. | $45,000 - $65,000 |
| GS-8 to GS-9 | Senior Operations Manager, Department Supervisor, Program Manager, Project Manager | Lead departmental initiatives, mentor junior staff, manage complex projects, develop strategies for operational improvements, and ensure compliance with organizational policies. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| GS-10 to GS-11 | Operations Director, Regional Manager, Senior Project Director, Program Director | Direct multiple teams or projects, develop and implement policies, drive major organizational changes, report to executive leadership, and ensure alignment with strategic goals. | $85,000 - $110,000 |
| GS-12 to GS-13 | Assistant Vice President of Operations, Senior Program Manager, Division Manager, Business Unit Director | Oversee various operational units, ensure strategic alignment across departments, lead performance evaluations, and develop comprehensive operational strategies. | $110,000 - $140,000 |
| GS-14 to GS-15 | Vice President of Operations, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Senior Division Director, Senior Vice President | Shape company-wide operational strategy, implement major process improvements, represent organizational interests in high-level meetings, and manage a significant budget. | $140,000 - $175,000 |
| SES | Chief Operations Officer, Executive Vice President, Senior Executive Leadership, Chief of Staff | Set the vision and strategy for the organization, provide executive-level oversight, engage in high-stakes negotiations, and ensure sustainable business practices. | $175,000 - $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.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and experience in project management, which is crucial for supervising work units effectively. This skill is highly valued in the civilian sector, where managing projects, teams, and resources efficiently can directly impact organizational success.
Certified Public Manager (CPM)
The CPM certification focuses on developing management and leadership skills for public sector professionals. Obtaining this credential can help transitioning individuals highlight their ability to lead teams and manage public resources effectively, making them attractive candidates for management roles in various civilian organizations.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Lean Six Sigma principles are essential for improving processes and enhancing operational efficiency within an organization. A Green Belt certification indicates expertise in these methodologies, which is beneficial for supervisors aiming to reduce waste and improve workflows in civilian roles.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
The CSM certification prepares professionals to effectively implement agile practices and manage teams in a dynamic work environment. This credential is increasingly sought after in the private sector, where cross-functional collaboration and adaptability are key to successful project outcomes.
Human Resources Certification (PHR or SPHR)
A PHR or SPHR certification focuses on various aspects of human capital management such as recruitment, selection, and employee relations. This knowledge is invaluable for supervising personnel in a civilian environment, ensuring compliance with HR laws, and fostering a productive work atmosphere.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP certification highlights expertise in information security management, an increasingly critical component of work unit supervision in today's technology-driven workplaces. As cybersecurity becomes a priority for civilian organizations, having this certification can give supervisors an edge in managing teams that safeguard sensitive information.
Change Management Professional (CMP)
The CMP certification prepares professionals to manage and lead change initiatives within organizations. In a civilian context, this skill is vital for supervisors faced with evolving business processes, ensuring smooth transitions, and maintaining morale during periods of change.
Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
The PMI-ACP certification showcases expertise in agile practices, which are essential for project management and teamwork in modern organizations. Supervisors with this credential can effectively lead agile teams and adapt to fast-paced business environments, making them invaluable in the civilian job market.
Diversity and Inclusion Certificate
A Diversity and Inclusion certificate equips professionals with the skills to foster an inclusive workplace culture. This competency is increasingly sought after in civilian roles, allowing supervisors to manage diverse teams effectively and enhance overall team performance.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
The LEED certification focuses on sustainable building practices and environmental stewardship, which are gaining traction in civilian industries like real estate and construction. Having this certification can position a supervisor as a knowledgeable leader in promoting sustainability initiatives within their organization.
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 Federal GS-0313 Work Unit Supervising Role to Private Sector: A Comprehensive Guide
Transitioning from a federal GS-0313 supervisory role to the private sector can feel daunting, but with the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you can navigate this transition successfully. Here’s a practical guide to help you on your journey.
1.1 Embrace Flexibility
In the private sector, change happens rapidly. Unlike the often-structured environment of federal jobs, you may encounter frequent shifts in direction and priorities. Being adaptable and open to new challenges is crucial.
1.2 Emphasize Results over Processes
Federal roles often focus on processes and compliance with regulations. In the private sector, there is a stronger emphasis on results and outcomes. Develop a mindset that prioritizes achieving goals and demonstrating the impact of your work.
1.3 Think Market Value
Understand your worth in the market. Research industry salary ranges and requirements to align your expectations. Your experience is valuable; it’s all about conveying that value effectively to potential employers.
2.1 Translate Your Experience
Your federal job description may not clearly translate into private sector terminology.
2.2 Tailor Your Resume
Craft a targeted resume for each application. Reflect the needs of the job description in your skills and achievements to show alignment.
2.3 Format Matters
Use a clean, modern format with easy-to-read fonts and clear headings. Avoid federal-specific jargon that may confuse hiring managers.
3.1 Prepare for Behavioral Questions
Expect behavioral interview questions that ask you to describe a situation, task, action, and result (STAR method). Prepare specific examples from your federal service that highlight leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making.
3.2 Showcase Transferable Skills
Discuss how your supervisory experience translates into management skills in the private sector, such as conflict resolution, performance management, and team development.
3.3 Be Authentic
Let your unique voice shine through. Practice articulating how your background informs your perspective and fosters a collaborative yet results-driven approach.
4.1 Leverage LinkedIn
Optimize your LinkedIn profile by showcasing your supervisory experience, emphasizing skills relevant to the private sector, and connecting with former colleagues, recruiters, and industry professionals.
4.2 Join Professional Groups
Participate in industry-specific organizations or attend local networking events to build relationships and gain insights into the private sector. Networking can sometimes lead to job opportunities before they are publicly advertised.
4.3 Informational Interviews
Reach out to professionals in roles or companies that interest you for informational interviews. These are opportunities to learn about their career paths and gain advice while expanding your network.
5.1 Identify Core Competencies
Examine your current skills and identify those that are most relevant to private sector job descriptions, such as project management, teamwork, analytical skills, etc.
5.2 Use Comparable Terms
Translate terms like "budget analysis" to "financial oversight" or "policy implementation" to "strategic planning". Always aim to position your federal experience as relatable outside of government contexts.
5.3 Share Impact Stories
Frame your accomplishments in terms of the impact they made. For example, rather than saying "Trained new employees on compliance procedures," say "Developed a comprehensive training program for new employees that reduced onboarding time by 25% while increasing compliance knowledge."
6.1 Continuous Learning
Consider taking courses relevant to your desired field (like project management certifications or industry-specific training) which can strengthen your resume and demonstrate your commitment to continuous professional development.
6.2 Stay Positive
Remember, transitioning careers can bring challenges, but keep a positive mindset. You bring a diverse set of experiences that can benefit private sector organizations. Your unique background allows you to approach problems from different angles.
Embrace this transition as an opportunity for growth and learning. Remember to leverage your existing skills while adapting to new environments. As you embark on this journey, maintain your confidence and enthusiasm; private sector companies desire the leadership and operational skills that professionals like you can provide. Celebrate the small victories along the way and stay persistent in your job search. You've got this!