The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is one of the most respected law enforcement agencies in the United States. Within each FBI field office, administrators play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations. They are responsible for handling office management, budgeting, scheduling, records, security compliance, and staff coordination. Although they may not appear in the spotlight like special agents, field office administrators provide the backbone of the bureau’s daily functions.
In 2025, many job seekers and professionals are curious about the FBI Field Office Administrator salary by grade level. Salaries in federal jobs are determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. Grade levels reflect both responsibility and years of experience. In addition to base pay, field office administrators often receive locality pay adjustments, allowances, and benefits that make the total compensation package highly competitive.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of salaries, allowances, grade levels, career growth, and benefits for FBI Field Office Administrators in 2025. If you are considering a career with the FBI or are curious about federal pay structures, this detailed article will answer all your questions.
Overview of FBI Field Office Administrator Salary Structure
FBI Field Office Administrators are federal employees, so their salaries are determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. The GS system has 15 grades (GS-1 to GS-15), with each grade containing 10 steps. Each step represents an increase in salary based on performance and years of service.
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Entry-level administrators usually start between GS-7 and GS-9.
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Mid-level administrators often hold GS-11 or GS-12 positions.
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Senior-level administrators may reach GS-13 to GS-15, depending on experience, leadership, and office size.
In 2025, federal pay rates have been adjusted to account for inflation and cost of living increases, making FBI administrative roles more financially rewarding compared to past years.
FBI Field Office Administrator Salary Table by Grade Level (2025)
The table below shows the approximate salary range for FBI Field Office Administrators in 2025, based on the General Schedule base pay (before locality pay and allowances). Actual salaries may be higher depending on geographic location.
| Grade Level | Step 1 (Base Pay) | Step 10 (Base Pay) | Approx. Annual Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | $42,700 | $55,800 | $42,700 – $55,800 |
| GS-8 | $47,300 | $61,600 | $47,300 – $61,600 |
| GS-9 | $51,600 | $67,800 | $51,600 – $67,800 |
| GS-10 | $56,000 | $74,600 | $56,000 – $74,600 |
| GS-11 | $61,300 | $81,800 | $61,300 – $81,800 |
| GS-12 | $73,200 | $95,900 | $73,200 – $95,900 |
| GS-13 | $86,600 | $112,500 | $86,600 – $112,500 |
| GS-14 | $102,000 | $132,800 | $102,000 – $132,800 |
| GS-15 | $120,900 | $157,800 | $120,900 – $157,800 |
Note: These figures represent base pay. With locality pay adjustments, salaries can increase by 15% to 40%, depending on the city.
How Locality Pay Affects Salaries
One of the biggest factors influencing FBI Field Office Administrator salaries is locality pay. Unlike private sector jobs, federal pay is standardized nationwide, but the government adjusts pay to match the cost of living in different cities.
For example:
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Administrators in New York City or San Francisco may earn 30–40% higher salaries than base pay.
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Administrators in smaller cities or rural areas may receive only 15–20% above base pay.
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The Washington D.C. area has one of the highest locality adjustments.
This means a GS-12 Field Office Administrator earning $73,200 base pay could receive $95,000–$110,000 annually in high-cost cities after adjustments.
Detailed Breakdown by Grade Level
GS-7 to GS-9 (Entry-Level Positions)
Entry-level administrators often manage clerical staff, oversee records, handle office supplies, and ensure compliance with FBI policies. Salaries range from $42,700 to $67,800, making these positions competitive for fresh graduates.
GS-10 to GS-12 (Mid-Level Administrators)
At this level, administrators take on supervisory roles, manage larger budgets, and coordinate with other FBI offices. Salaries typically range from $56,000 to $95,900, depending on grade and step.
GS-13 to GS-15 (Senior-Level Administrators)
These are high-responsibility roles that involve leadership of large field offices, policy oversight, and direct reporting to senior FBI officials. Salaries range from $86,600 to $157,800 base pay, with locality pay pushing totals well above $160,000 in some cities.
Allowances and Benefits for FBI Field Office Administrators
In addition to salary, administrators enjoy several allowances and benefits:
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Locality Pay Adjustment (15–40% increase depending on city)
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Overtime and Compensatory Time for extra work hours
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Health Insurance (FEHB) – wide choice of plans
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Retirement Benefits (FERS) – pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
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Paid Leave – up to 26 vacation days per year plus sick leave
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Federal Holidays – 11 paid holidays annually
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Life Insurance (FEGLI)
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Tuition Reimbursement for job-related education
These benefits significantly increase the overall compensation package, making the FBI a stable and attractive career choice.
Comparison with Other FBI Roles
Compared to FBI Special Agents, administrators typically earn slightly less, as agents receive additional law enforcement availability pay (LEAP). However, administrators still earn higher salaries than many clerical or technician roles due to their leadership and management responsibilities.
For example:
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FBI Special Agent (GS-10 to GS-13): $73,000 – $120,000 plus LEAP
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FBI Intelligence Analyst (GS-7 to GS-13): $42,000 – $112,000
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FBI Field Office Administrator (GS-7 to GS-15): $42,700 – $157,800
Key Factors Influencing Salary Growth
Several factors determine how quickly an FBI Field Office Administrator can move up the pay scale:
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Years of Service – Step increases occur automatically every 1–3 years.
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Performance Evaluations – Strong performance can lead to faster promotions.
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Location of Assignment – Working in large metropolitan areas often leads to higher pay.
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Education Level – Advanced degrees can help secure higher-grade positions.
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Promotions – Moving from GS-9 to GS-12 significantly boosts pay.
Career Progression and Promotion Path
Field Office Administrators typically start at GS-7 or GS-9. With consistent performance and experience, they can move to GS-11 or GS-12 within 5–7 years. Senior administrators at GS-13 to GS-15 are often in charge of regional operations and may oversee hundreds of staff.
Promotions are competitive but achievable, especially for administrators who demonstrate leadership, budgeting expertise, and knowledge of FBI policies.
Joining Requirements for FBI Field Office Administrators
To qualify for an administrator role, candidates usually need:
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Bachelor’s degree in administration, business, public policy, or related field
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Relevant work experience in office management, finance, or HR
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U.S. citizenship and ability to pass an FBI background check
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Strong organizational and leadership skills
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Ability to handle classified information securely
Summary Table: FBI Field Office Administrator Salary (2025)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary Range | $42,700 – $157,800 |
| Grade Levels | GS-7 to GS-15 |
| Locality Pay | 15% – 40% increase |
| Total Estimated Pay (with locality) | $50,000 – $170,000+ |
| Allowances | Overtime, health insurance, retirement, life insurance |
| Career Progression | GS-7 → GS-12 (mid-level) → GS-15 (senior) |
| Work Benefits | Paid leave, holidays, tuition reimbursement |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the starting salary of an FBI Field Office Administrator in 2025?
Entry-level administrators typically earn between $42,700 and $55,800, depending on grade and location.
2. How high can an FBI Field Office Administrator salary go?
At the GS-15 level, administrators can earn up to $157,800 base pay, with locality pay pushing totals beyond $170,000.
3. Do administrators receive the same benefits as FBI agents?
Yes, they receive full federal employee benefits, although they do not get law enforcement availability pay (LEAP).
4. How often do administrators get pay raises?
Step increases occur every 1–3 years, and promotions can raise salaries significantly.
5. Does locality pay make a big difference?
Yes, it can increase salaries by 15–40%, depending on the city.
6. What education is required for the role?
Most administrators hold at least a bachelor’s degree in administration, business, or a related field.
7. Can administrators transfer between field offices?
Yes, transfers are possible, though subject to FBI needs and job availability.
8. Are there opportunities for promotion?
Yes, with good performance, administrators can advance from GS-7 to GS-15.
9. How does this salary compare to private sector jobs?
While some private roles may pay more, the federal benefits and job security make this role highly attractive.
10. Is this a good long-term career choice?
Yes, the role offers competitive pay, stability, and excellent retirement benefits, making it ideal for long-term employment.
Conclusion
The role of an FBI Field Office Administrator is both demanding and rewarding. In 2025, salaries range from $42,700 at entry-level to $157,800 for senior roles, with locality pay significantly boosting total compensation. Combined with allowances, benefits, and federal retirement plans, the job offers financial stability and long-term growth.
For individuals interested in administration, leadership, and federal service, becoming an FBI Field Office Administrator is a prestigious and financially rewarding career path.