While federal salaries are sometimes perceived as lower than the private sector, many government positions offer extremely competitive compensation — especially when you factor in benefits, job security, and work-life balance. Here are the highest paying career paths in federal service.
Medical and Healthcare Positions
Federal physicians consistently rank among the highest-paid government employees. The VA employs thousands of doctors with salaries ranging from $200,000 to over $400,000 depending on specialty and location. Surgeons, anesthesiologists, and psychiatrists command the highest rates. Beyond physicians, pharmacists, dentists, podiatrists, and optometrists also receive premium pay under Title 38 special salary rates. The Indian Health Service and military treatment facilities offer additional incentives including loan repayment.
Information Technology
IT professionals are in enormous demand across the federal government, and agencies use special rate tables and direct hire authorities to compete for talent. IT Specialists (GS-2210 series) at senior levels regularly earn $130,000-$180,000 with locality pay. Cybersecurity positions are particularly well-compensated, with the DHS Cybersecurity Service offering salaries up to $255,000. Chief Information Officers at major agencies can earn over $200,000 through the SES pay system.
Engineering Positions
Engineers across multiple disciplines earn premium federal salaries. Aerospace engineers at NASA and the Air Force often reach $140,000-$170,000. Nuclear engineers at the NRC and Department of Energy earn similarly. Civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers at agencies like the Army Corps of Engineers and NAVFAC benefit from special rate tables that boost pay 10-25% above standard GS rates.
Legal Positions
Federal attorneys at the Department of Justice, SEC, FTC, and other agencies earn competitive salaries on special pay scales. Senior attorneys typically earn $140,000-$180,000. Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are among the highest-paid non-SES federal employees, with salaries ranging from $120,000 to over $190,000. Patent attorneys at the USPTO combine legal and technical expertise for premium compensation.
Senior Executive Service (SES)
The SES represents the top tier of federal civilian leadership. In 2026, SES pay ranges from approximately $147,000 to $221,000, depending on the agency and performance. SES members lead major programs, manage large organizations, and shape federal policy. Entry typically requires extensive federal experience at the GS-14 or GS-15 level, though some positions are filled from outside government.
Financial and Economic Positions
Financial regulators like the FDIC, SEC, OCC, and Federal Reserve Board operate on their own pay systems that significantly exceed GS rates. Bank examiners, economists, and financial analysts at these agencies routinely earn $130,000-$200,000. The Federal Reserve Board in particular is known for private-sector-competitive compensation.
Air Traffic Control
FAA air traffic controllers are among the highest-paid federal employees without requiring an advanced degree. Experienced controllers at major facilities earn $130,000-$200,000+ including premium pay for overtime, night shifts, and holiday work. The job is demanding but offers exceptional compensation for those who qualify.
Maximizing Your Federal Earning Potential
Target agencies with special pay systems (financial regulators, VA, intelligence community). Pursue certifications that qualify you for special rate positions. Seek out hard-to-fill locations that offer recruitment incentives. Build toward SES eligibility through progressive leadership experience. Consider the total compensation package — federal benefits add significant value beyond base salary.