What Is the Lowest Paying Job in the Federal Government? A Detailed Look

When you hear the phrase “federal job,” you probably picture a steady paycheck and solid benefits. But not every federal position starts with a high wage. In fact, the lowest paying federal government job is a real entry‑point that can still open doors to a long career. Let’s break down exactly which role sits at the bottom of the pay ladder, how the pay is calculated, and what you should know before applying.

Quick Takeaways

• The lowest paid federal positions are typically classified as GS-1 jobs.
• Common GS-1 titles include Clerical Support, Mail Clerk, and Food Service Worker.
• 2025 base salary for GS-1 starts at $30,247, with locality adjustments ranging from $30,800 to $34,500.
• Even the lowest pay comes with health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
• Applying via USAJOBS and understanding the OPM pay scale are essential first steps.

Understanding the General Schedule (GS) Pay System

The federal workforce primarily uses the General Schedule (GS) to determine salary. The system has 15 grades (GS‑1 through GS‑15), each with ten steps that reflect experience and performance. Grades set the base pay, while locality pay adjustments modify salaries based on regional cost‑of‑living differences.

GS‑1 is the entry‑level grade, often reserved for positions that require minimal prior experience. Because GS‑1 sits at the bottom of the scale, it represents the lowest paying federal job category.

Typical GS‑1 Job Titles

Not all GS‑1 roles are the same, but they share a common pay floor. Below are the three most common titles you’ll encounter on the job board:

• Clerical Support (GS‑1): Handles basic office tasks such as data entry, filing, and answering phones.
• Mail Clerk (GS‑1): Sorts incoming/outgoing mail, prepares packages, and maintains mailroom inventory.
• Food Service Worker (GS‑1): Prepares meals for federal facilities, follows safety standards, and cleans kitchen equipment.

These roles often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and they provide on‑the‑job training that can accelerate promotion to higher grades.

2025 Salary Snapshot

Even at the low end, a GS‑1 employee earns more than many part‑time retail jobs, and the benefits package often outweighs the bare salary.

Why Take a GS‑1 Position?

It might feel odd to start a career with the lowest wage, but there are several strategic reasons to consider a GS‑1 job:

1. Secure, government‑backed employment with 30+ years of retirement benefits.
2. Clear promotion pathways; many employees reach GS‑7 or higher within five years.
3. Access to training programs, tuition assistance, and professional development.
4. Ability to transfer across agencies, expanding your network and experience.

These advantages can make the low starting pay a worthwhile investment in a long‑term federal career.

How to Find GS‑1 Openings

The primary portal for federal jobs is USAJOBS. Follow these steps to locate the lowest paying roles:

1. Create a free account and upload a federal‑style resume.
2. In the search bar, type the job title (e.g., "Clerical Support") and set the grade filter to "GS‑1".
3. Use the location filter to target agencies that offer the highest locality pay-cities like Washington, D.C., or San Francisco.
   • Check the OPM salary tables for exact locality rates.
4. Read the vacancy announcement carefully; note required documents, eligibility criteria, and deadline.
5. Submit your application and set up alerts for similar positions.

Don’t forget to review agency‑specific career pages. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) often posts GS‑1 clerical jobs in its regional offices.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many applicants miss out on GS‑1 opportunities because of simple mistakes:

• Skipping the federal resume format. The federal resume requires detailed work history, hours per week, and supervisor contact info.
• Ignoring locality pay. A GS‑1 job in a high‑cost area can boost your total compensation by over $3,000.
• Not meeting “U.S. citizenship” or “selective service” requirements, which are mandatory for most federal roles.
• Applying after the posting deadline; USAJOBS automatically rejects late submissions.

Double‑check each requirement before hitting “Submit.”

Beyond the Salary: Benefits That Matter

Even the lowest paid federal employee enjoys a package that rivals many private‑sector jobs:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance with low employee contributions.
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) - a 401(k)‑style retirement account with matching contributions up to 5% of your salary.
• Annual leave accrual starting at 13 days per year, increasing with service time.
• Paid holidays (10 per year) and sick leave.
• Flexible work schedules in many agencies, including telework options.

When you add up the monetary value of these benefits, the effective compensation often surpasses the base salary alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps for Aspiring Federal Employees

If you’re ready to apply for the lowest paying federal job, follow this short checklist:

1. Build a federal‑style resume (include hours/week, supervisor contact, and relevant keywords).
2. Register on USAJOBS and set up job alerts for GS‑1 positions.
3. Identify your preferred locality and verify the pay rate on the OPM website.
4. Gather required documents (citizenship proof, selective service registration, transcripts if needed).
5. Submit your application before the deadline and keep a copy of the confirmation number.

Remember, the starting salary is just the beginning. With the federal system’s built‑in promotion path and strong benefits, a GS‑1 role can be a smart stepping stone toward a rewarding long‑term career.