It normally takes 18 years to advance from step 1 to step 10 within a single GS grade if an employee remains in that single grade. Within-grade step increases are based on an acceptable level of performance and longevity (waiting periods of 1 year at steps 1-3, 2 years at steps 4-6, and 3 years at steps 7-9). Individuals with a high school diploma and no additional experience typically qualify for GS-2 positions those with a Bachelor’s degree for GS-5 positions and those with a Master’s degree for GS-9 positions.Įach grade has 10 step rates (steps 1-10) that are each worth approximately 3 percent of the employee’s salary.

Agencies establish (classify) the grade of each job based on the level of difficulty, responsibility, and qualifications required. The General Schedule has 15 grades-GS-1 (lowest) to GS-15 (highest). Each agency classifies its GS positions and appoints and pays its GS employees filling those positions following statutory and OPM guidelines. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on a Governmentwide basis. GS classification standards, qualifications, pay structure, and related human resources policies (e.g., general staffing and pay administration policies) are administered by the U.S. The General Schedule (GS) classification and pay system covers the majority of civilian white-collar Federal employees (about 1.5 million worldwide) in professional, technical, administrative, and clerical positions. Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments.Recruitment, Relocation & Retention Incentives.Federal Labor-Management Information System.Federal Workforce Priorities Report (FWPR).Frequently Asked Questions for Hybrid Work Environment.Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.Selective Placement Program Coordinator.General Schedule Qualification Standards.General Schedule Qualification Policies.Classifying Federal Wage System Positions.

Four time table chart