Lowest Paying Federal Government Job: What It Is and Who Gets It

When people think of federal government jobs, they often picture high salaries, pensions, and stability. But not all federal roles pay well—especially at the entry level. The lowest paying federal government job, a position that starts at the federal minimum wage rate set by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale is often an entry-level clerical or support role. These jobs exist in every federal agency, from the IRS to the Department of Agriculture, and they’re filled by people just starting out, students, or those re-entering the workforce. They’re not glamorous, but they’re real—and they’re the first rung on the public service ladder.

These roles typically include positions like Administrative Assistant, a support role handling paperwork, scheduling, and basic office tasks, or File Clerk, someone who organizes and retrieves physical or digital records. They require little to no experience, no advanced degree, and sometimes just a high school diploma. The pay? Often starts at GS-2 or GS-3, which in 2025 translates to roughly $22,000 to $28,000 a year depending on location. That’s barely above minimum wage in many states, but it comes with benefits: health insurance, paid leave, and a path to promotion. Unlike private sector jobs, federal roles don’t just leave you hanging—you can move up through performance reviews and training programs.

What’s surprising is how many people rely on these jobs. They’re often filled by young adults, veterans, people with disabilities, and those in rural areas with few other options. These aren’t dead-end jobs—they’re stepping stones. Many who start as file clerks end up as program managers, auditors, or even policy advisors. The federal system is built to reward persistence. You don’t need a fancy degree to start; you just need to show up, learn the system, and take the next test or training course.

And while these jobs pay less than most people expect, they’re still more stable than most private sector roles. No sudden layoffs. No unpredictable shifts. You get a paycheck every two weeks, and you know exactly how much it will be. If you’re looking to get your foot in the door, build a resume, or gain experience without going into debt, these positions matter. They’re the quiet backbone of government operations.

Below, you’ll find real insights from people who’ve held these roles, what they learned, how they moved up, and what to expect if you’re considering one. No fluff. No hype. Just what actually happens when you take a job that pays the least—but gives you the most in the long run.