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Gs Scale Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

That knowledge is key when it comes to conducting large-scale energy assessments across large ... Experience working with the Department of War in government or contractor roles and supporting GS ...

Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$62K - $141K/yr

That knowledge is key when it comes to conducting large-scale energy assessments across large ... Experience working with the Department of War in government or contractor roles and supporting GS ...

Showing results 21-40

Gs Scale information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do gs scale jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for gs scale in Virginia is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the GS scale?

The GS Scale, or General Schedule, is the pay scale used for most federal employees in the United States, specifically those in professional, technical, administrative, and clerical positions. It consists of 15 grades (GS-1 to GS-15), each with 10 steps that determine pay based on experience and performance. The GS Scale helps standardize salaries across different agencies and locations, though locality pay adjustments can increase base pay in higher-cost areas. Promotions and step increases typically occur based on years of service and satisfactory job performance. Understanding the GS Scale is essential for anyone considering a federal government career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a GS federal employee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a GS federal employee, you typically need relevant education or experience for the specific position, strong analytical abilities, and knowledge of government procedures. Familiarity with federal HR systems like USAJOBS, proficiency in office software, and sometimes security clearances are often required. Strong communication, organizational skills, and adaptability are important soft skills for effective collaboration and navigating complex bureaucratic environments. These competencies ensure employees can efficiently fulfill their duties, comply with regulations, and contribute to public service goals.

How does being on the GS pay scale impact opportunities for career advancement within federal government roles?

Working in a position classified under the GS (General Schedule) pay scale provides a structured path for career advancement in the federal government. Employees can progress through steps within their current grade based on performance and years of service, and may also apply for higher-grade positions as they gain experience and demonstrate qualifications. Advancement often depends on a combination of merit, tenure, and completion of training or educational requirements. The GS system promotes transparency and fairness in promotions but can be competitive, so actively seeking professional development and networking within your agency can help accelerate your growth.

What is the difference between Gs Scale vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGs ScaleCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically none; federal pay grade systemBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, federal agenciesConstruction sites, engineering firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. federal government for salary gradingPrivate and public sector infrastructure projects
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding federal pay gradesUnderstanding civil engineering roles and salaries

The Gs Scale is a federal pay grade system used to determine salaries for government employees, while a Civil Engineer is a professional responsible for designing and overseeing construction projects. The Gs Scale provides a standardized salary structure, whereas civil engineers focus on project execution and technical expertise. Both are integral to government infrastructure projects, but they serve different functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Gs Scale jobs in Virginia?

For Gs Scale jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Gs Scale jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Gs Scale job openings:

Infographic showing various Gs Scale job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,714 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Supervisory Wage and Hour Investigator (ADD)

Department of Labor

Newport News, VA • On-site

$106K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the U.S. Wage and Hour Division (WHD) in either Richmond or New Port News Virginia. The incumbent will serve as an Assistant District Director (ADD). The ADD is responsible for executing, within the geographical jurisdiction, the enforcement and compliance programs of the Wage and Hour Division.

Qualifications:

You must meet all requirements listed below to qualify for a GS-13 Supervisory Wage and Hour Investigator (ADD).

A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. All experience listed on your resume must include the month and year start/end dates. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must clearly indicate the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such position.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. You must meet the following
Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) and the Specialized Experience to qualify for Supervisory Wage and Hour Investigator (Assistant District Director):

Applicants must meet at least two of the following three specialized criteria requirements:

  • General knowledge of Federal wage and hour labor laws, industrial occupations, wage scales, employment practices, or salary and wage administration practices.
  • Skill in analyzing written/verbal information and numerical data and making decisions on issues based on interviews, records review, reconstruction of missing or fraudulent records and applying legal or regulatory provisions, precedents, and principles to specific investigative matters.
  • Skill in personal contacts requiring the ability to explain requirements or rights and obtain information and cooperation from people with diverse backgrounds and levels of understanding, reconcile conflicting interests, and persuade others to comply voluntarily with requirements.
In addition to the criteria specified above, applicants must have knowledge of and ability to apply the provisions of Federal wage and hour labor laws pertaining to wages, hours of work, or related conditions of employment. Examples of qualifying specialized experience include:
  • Developing, interpreting, or applying policies, procedures, and operating standards in determining compliance for an organization or government-based program.
  • Conducting interviews and providing information about laws and/or regulations.
  • Industrial personnel or salary and wage administration or responsible work in a certified public accounting firm.
  • Analyzing or applying labor legislation.
  • Reviewing and evaluating operations and procedures through analysis, audits, or surveillance inspections.
  • Federal, State, or self-regulatory agency work involving obtaining compliance with appropriate program requirements.
-AND-
Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level, in the Federal Service. Specialized experience includes:
  1. Experience working with laws and regulations enforced by the Wage and Hour Division or similar State or Federal Statutes, including responsibility for analyzing written and oral information, numerical data, making decisions and applying legal or regulatory provisions, and principles to specific situations.
  2. Experience conducting complex investigations pertaining to Wage and Hour programs as well as preparing cases for criminal or civil litigation.
  3. Experience performing public information and public relations duties by speaking before employers, labor, and civic groups as well as radio, television and on-line media.

-AND-
Time in grade requirement for the GS-13 grade level - 52 weeks of Federal service at the GS-12 grade level (if applicable).Applicants must meet time-in-grade, time-after-competitive-appointment, and qualifications requirements within 30 days, 08/20/2026, of the closing date of this announcement to be eligible for consideration.

Education:

This position has no education requirement and there is no substitution of education for specialized experience at this grade level. Applicants must possess the required specialized experience.

Employment Type: OTHER