<prompt> Human: Besides years of experience in a professional field, a B.A. and a Masters, what other factors go in to different levels of GS Pay? Are there any affordable additions in can start working on to make my resume a powerhouse when I go to the government sector in 2-3 years? What is quantifiable to a GS pay scale? A half year back I was offered a position with government work. The salary was too low with just my B.A. and limited military experience that my wife and I had to decline. Now Im still in the military getting more time in as well as my Masters. I have 2-3 years Or longer if we choose to do so to beef up before I re-apply to similar government work.Uneducated guesses:-Foreign language-Volunteer Work  <response>: Government employee here. Its not like the private sector. What you will be paid depends on the position youre applying for, not on your qualifications. Whether you just barely meet the minimum requirements or blow them out of the water, the pay on GS is the same. 