fed2civ

GS-0318 Secretary Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Secretary (GS-0318) 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
1-4 Administrative Assistant, Office Assistant, Clerical Support Specialist Provide administrative support, including scheduling appointments, handling correspondence, and maintaining files. Assist in office organization and facilitate communication among team members. $30,000 - $45,000
5-7 Executive Assistant, Project Coordinator, Office Manager Manage executive schedules, prepare reports, and coordinate projects. Act as a liaison between departments, maintaining effective communication and organization of office functions. $45,000 - $65,000
8-9 Senior Administrative Specialist, Operations Coordinator, Program Assistant Provide high-level administrative support to executives. Oversee office management tasks, prepare detailed reports, and ensure compliance with organizational policies and procedures. $65,000 - $85,000
10-11 Administrative Manager, Senior Executive Assistant, Deputy Office Manager Lead the administrative team, implementing best practices in office procedures and resource management. Develop and manage budgets, and coordinate complex projects and events. $85,000 - $110,000
12-13 Program Manager, Administrative Director, Operations Manager Oversee strategic administrative functions and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Lead cross-functional teams, manage significant budgets, and train staff on policies and procedures. $110,000 - $140,000
14-15 Director of Administration, Chief of Staff, Senior Program Director Direct and oversee all administrative functions for the organization. Develop policies, manage large teams, and collaborate with executive leadership to drive organizational success. $140,000 - $180,000
SES Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Vice President of Administration, Senior Vice President of Operations Provide strategic leadership for all administrative functions across the organization. Develop long-term plans for efficiency, manage executive teams, and drive organizational performance at the highest level. $180,000 - $250,000

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.

  • • Effective communication skills: Ability to convey information clearly in writing and verbally, which is essential in various administrative and customer service roles.
  • • Organizational skills: Experience in managing schedules, appointments, and documents, applicable to office management or administrative assistant positions.
  • • Attention to detail: Skill in reviewing documents for accuracy and completeness, which is vital in quality control or data management jobs.
  • • Time management: Proficient in prioritizing tasks and managing time efficiently, valuable in fast-paced environments like project coordination or team management.
  • • Proficient use of office software: Familiarity with word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software translates to any modern office setting.
  • • Customer service skills: Experience in interacting with clients and addressing inquiries or issues, transferable to roles in customer support or client relations.
  • • Problem-solving: Ability to identify issues and develop solutions, relevant to roles in operations management or process improvement.
  • • Team collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues across various departments, which applies to most workplace environments.
  • • Confidentiality: Experience in handling sensitive information with discretion, critical in roles such as human resources or legal assistance.
  • • Adaptability: Ability to adjust to changing priorities and work environments, important in dynamic industries like technology or healthcare.

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.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    The PMP certification demonstrates advanced project management skills, making it ideal for candidates transitioning from a GS-0318 Secretary role, often involved in coordinating projects and tasks. This credential is highly recognized in the civilian sector and can enhance a candidate's ability to manage teams and projects effectively.

  • Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

    The CAP certification validates an individual's competence and understanding of administrative responsibilities, which align closely with the core functions of a GS-0318 Secretary. Possessing this certification can set a candidate apart in the civilian job market by showcasing their commitment to professional development and expertise in administrative skills.

  • Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

    Being certified in Microsoft Office applications, particularly in Outlook, Word, and Excel, is crucial for administrative roles, including GS-0318, which demand proficiency in these tools. This certification can enhance employability as it confirms the candidate's technical skills in widely-used software, making them an asset to potential employers.

  • Certificate in Office Management

    A Certificate in Office Management provides foundational knowledge in office administration, including organization, communication, and management skills relevant to the GS-0318 series. This credential equips candidates with a broader understanding of office dynamics, which is valuable in various civilian roles.

  • Leadership Development Program Certification

    This certification can enhance leadership and managerial skills, which are beneficial for GS-0318 Secretaries who may progress into supervisory roles in the civilian sector. Demonstrating leadership capabilities not only improves career advancement potential but also attracts employers looking for proactive candidates.

  • Human Resources Certification (PHR/SPHR)

    For secretaries involved in personnel management, obtaining a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification could be advantageous. These credentials can help candidates understand HR processes and compliance, which are essential in many civilian positions.

  • Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

    This certification provides knowledge on government financial management that can be beneficial for administrative roles involving budgeting and financial reporting. Transitioning secretaries with CGFM can leverage this expertise in the civilian sector where financial acumen is highly valued.

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.

  • Large Corporations (e.g., Fortune 500 companies)
  • Healthcare Organizations
  • Educational Institutions (e.g., universities, colleges)
  • Government Contracting Firms
  • Non-Profit Organizations
  • Legal Firms
  • Consulting Firms
  • Financial Institutions (e.g., banks, credit unions)
  • Media Companies (e.g., publishing, broadcasting)
  • Tech Companies (e.g., software, IT 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 your organizational and communication skills in your resume, as these are highly valued in civilian administrative positions.
  • Consider seeking certifications related to office management, administrative support, or project management to enhance your qualifications.
  • Leverage your experience with federal processes and regulations in job interviews, emphasizing your ability to navigate complex systems in a timely manner.
  • Network with former colleagues and attend professional events to tap into unadvertised job opportunities and gain insights into civilian workplace cultures.
  • Tailor your application materials to demonstrate how your skills directly align with the requirements of the civilian job you are applying for, using specific examples from your GS-0318 experience.

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 reliance on remote work leading to more virtual administrative support roles.
  • 📈 Growing demand for administrative professionals with tech skills, especially proficiency in collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
  • 📈 Focus on data security and privacy regulations increasing the need for administrative staff to understand compliance protocols.
  • 📈 Emphasis on soft skills such as communication and adaptability as workplaces evolve post-pandemic.
  • 📈 Increase in automation of administrative tasks, creating a need for higher-level strategic support roles.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a Federal GS-0318 Secretary Role to Private Sector Employment

Transitioning from a federal position, such as a GS-0318 Secretary, to the private sector can be a significant yet rewarding shift. This change offers a host of new opportunities in environments that can be more fast-paced, dynamic, and focused on specific business objectives. Below are several key areas to focus on during your transition:

1. Mindset Shifts

  • Embrace Change: Understand that the work culture in the private sector may differ from federal employment. Be open to new ways of working, flexibility in job roles, and the potential for more responsibility.
  • Focus on Results: While federal roles may prioritize adherence to policies and procedures, the private sector typically values results. Cultivating a results-oriented mindset is crucial. Think about how your work can impact the organization’s bottom line.
  • Resilience and Adaptability: The private sector can often be unpredictable. Staying resilient and adaptable will help you manage challenges and seize new opportunities as they arise.

2. Translating Federal Experience

  • Use Business Language: Federal job titles and terminologies may not resonate in the private sector. Instead of using specific federal jargon, focus on transferable skills like communication, organization, project management, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Highlight Quantifiable Achievements: Private employers often appreciate measurable outcomes. Instead of saying you “processed documents and correspondences,” you might frame it as “streamlined office processes to improve efficiency by 30%.”
  • Identify Skills and Competencies: Analyze your previous roles and identify skills that are valued in the private sector, such as proficiency in office software (e.g., Microsoft Office), communication skills, customer service orientation, and problem-solving abilities.

3. Resume Tips

  • Resume Format: Use a modern resume format that is clean, professional, and easy to read. Start with a strong summary statement that outlines your experience and skills in a way that aligns with the job you’re targeting.
  • Focus on Relevant Experience: List your most relevant experiences at the forefront. Tailor your resume to highlight experiences that resonate with the skills listed in the private sector job descriptions you are considering.
  • Employ Keywords: Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS). Use keywords from the job postings that fit your experience. This can include software tools, soft skills, and specific achievements relevant to the role.

4. Interview Preparation

  • Understand the Company Culture: Research the company’s mission, values, and work culture. Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs and how you can contribute to their goals.
  • Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Be ready to answer behavioral interview questions that ask you to describe past experiences. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide structured responses that clearly articulate your contributions.
  • Practice Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are critical in interviews. Practice your responses with friends or mentors, focusing on clear and confident articulation of your experiences and how they meet the company’s needs.

5. Networking Strategies

  • Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile by reflecting your new career aspirations and securely connecting with industry professionals. Engage by commenting on posts, sharing relevant articles, and joining industry-related groups.
  • Attend Industry Events and Job Fairs: Engage in local job fairs or networking events. These are great opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about industry expectations.
  • Informational Interviews: Reach out to people in roles you aspire to and request informational interviews. This will help you better understand their career paths, the skills they value, and company cultures.

6. Continuous Learning and Development

  • Upskill if Necessary: Identify any skills or qualifications that may be beneficial in the private sector. Consider online courses or certifications that can bolster your resume.
  • Stay Current with Industry Trends: Subscribe to industry magazines or blogs relevant to the field you are entering. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in your potential new career path.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a federal position to the private sector is a journey that requires adaptability, ongoing learning, and proactive networking. Celebrate your federal accomplishments but prepare to translate those experiences in a way that speaks to your future employer's values and needs. Remember that your background equips you uniquely for a diverse range of roles outside the government, and with persistence and the right strategy, you can successfully navigate this transition.