GS-9 Analyst Position Description
If you're ready to put your analytical abilities to work for the government, you might consider a GS-9 analyst position. The "GS" stands for the "general schedule" pay scale that the government applies to a variety of positions. The "9" represents grade nine, a level in the pay scale where the starting salary sat at $41,563 in 2010. Higher starting pay may apply in certain geographical areas.
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Types of Positions
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The federal government offers a variety of opportunities for analysts at the GS-9 level. There are program analysts, management analysts and budget analysts. Other areas of concentration for analysts include staff support, correspondence, logistics, social science research and public health.
Job postings can include full-time, permanent openings and full-time "term" positions that will not last longer than a pre-defined time period (often one, two or three years). Part-time permanent positions are also offered. Some analyst jobs are bargaining-unit positions in which employees are represented by a union.
Agencies
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Analysts can put their skills to work in a variety of different agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services, Internal Revenue Service, Air Force, Navy, Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense. Others who employ analysts include the National Endowment for the Humanities, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Reclamation, Department of Education and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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Duties
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Because there are a wide range of analyst positions and employers in the federal government, job duties can vary widely. Those working in a financial area may review spending reports to ensure that government purchases comply with federal regulations. They may also offer advice to other staff on budget-related matters. An analyst in a health agency may analyze public health policies, programs and trends in order to make recommendations to management. A staff support analyst may prepare internal and external communication materials, including fact sheets and papers. A program analyst may screen grant applications and provide information to potential grant applicants.
Some analysts perform administrative duties, including operating office equipment, answering phones, greeting visitors and arranging meetings and travel. Others assist their agency's employees in obtaining passports and visas.
Analysts may be called on to analyze work processes, conduct interviews or collect data. They commonly prepare reports based on their findings and may give oral presentations of their findings to managers. They may also assist in policy development and planning for their agency
Education and Experience
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In most cases, you must be a U.S. citizen or national to apply for federal government jobs. Analyst positions often require a master's degree, but sometimes experience can be used to fulfill part of the educational requirements.
Passing results on background and credit checks may be required for some government analyst positions. Others require a special security clearance.
Skills and Personal Qualities
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Employers want analysts who have who have good oral and written communication skills. The ability to conduct research and establish strong working relationships is also important.
A willingness to travel may also be expected.
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References
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