Gs Grades
Every gs grade page on Bureauify, each linked to the live federal records for that entity.
16 pages, each tied to live federal records.
- Entry LevelGS-1 is the entry-level grade of the federal General Schedule pay system. These positions typically require no prior experience or specialized education. GS-1 employees perform basic support tasks under close supervision. Federal contractors providing staffing services often fill GS-1 equivalent roles for mailroom operations, filing, and basic data entry.
- Entry Level — ClericalGS-2 positions involve routine clerical and support work requiring minimal experience. Employees at this level perform repetitive tasks following established procedures. Federal service contracts often include GS-2 equivalent labor categories for administrative support and basic office operations across government facilities.
- Entry ProfessionalGS-5 marks the entry level for many professional and technical career tracks, typically requiring a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. This is a common starting grade for recent college graduates entering federal service. Government contractors employ GS-5 equivalent staff in analyst, technician, and specialist roles.
- Experienced TechnicianGS-6 positions require a higher level of technical expertise than GS-5, often involving specialized tasks in a particular field. This grade bridges the gap between entry-level and experienced professional positions. Federal contractors staff GS-6 equivalent roles in accounting, procurement support, and technical specialties.
- Expert / Team LeadGS-13 is a senior-level grade for experienced professionals who serve as subject matter experts, program managers, or supervisors. These positions involve high-level analysis, policy development, and organizational leadership. GS-13 equivalent labor categories command premium rates in federal contracts and are critical for defense, IT modernization, and consulting engagements.
- Full PerformanceGS-11 represents the full-performance level for many professional positions, requiring a PhD or three years of specialized experience. Employees independently handle complex tasks and may begin supervising junior staff. GS-11 equivalent positions are among the most common in federal IT, engineering, and consulting contracts.
- Junior ProfessionalGS-7 is the typical entry grade for professionals with a bachelor's degree and superior academic achievement or one year of graduate study. Employees at this level begin performing professional work with moderate supervision. Federal service and IT contracts commonly include GS-7 equivalent labor categories for analyst and specialist positions.
- Mid-Level ProfessionalGS-9 is the standard entry grade for professionals with a master's degree or two years of progressively responsible experience. Employees work with increasing independence on moderately complex assignments. This is a high-volume labor category in federal contracts, especially in IT, engineering, and professional services.
- Mid-Level TechnicianGS-8 is a less common grade that serves as a bridge between GS-7 and GS-9 for certain occupational series, particularly in technical and support fields. It typically requires specialized technical experience. Federal contractors may encounter GS-8 equivalent positions in medical, technical, and law enforcement support contracts.
- Pre-ProfessionalGS-4 is a pre-professional grade involving more complex clerical or technical duties. Employees may begin to apply specialized knowledge or complete initial training programs. Defense and civilian agency contracts include GS-4 equivalent roles for technical support, logistics assistance, and administrative coordination.
- Senior ExecutiveThe Senior Executive Service (SES) sits above the General Schedule and encompasses the top leadership positions in the federal government. SES members serve just below presidential appointees, directing programs of national significance and leading thousands of employees. Federal contractors interact with SES officials as key decision-makers on major acquisitions, policy initiatives, and agency transformation efforts.
- Senior Manager / ExpertGS-14 positions are senior management and expert-level roles responsible for directing major programs, managing large teams, or serving as top technical authorities. These employees shape policy, lead organizational initiatives, and oversee significant budgets. GS-14 equivalent roles in federal contracts include senior technical advisors, program directors, and principal consultants.
- Senior ProfessionalGS-12 is a senior professional grade requiring substantial specialized experience. Employees handle complex projects, lead teams, and make independent decisions with significant impact. This is the most common grade in federal IT and professional services contracts, representing experienced specialists and team leads across defense and civilian agencies.
- SpecialistGS-10 is another transitional grade used primarily in certain technical and specialized series. It bridges GS-9 and GS-11 for occupations that require specific credential milestones. Federal contracts in healthcare, law enforcement, and technical fields may include GS-10 equivalent positions.
- Top Manager / Principal ExpertGS-15 is the highest grade in the General Schedule, reserved for top managers, leading experts, and senior officials. These positions direct major organizational divisions, lead agency-wide initiatives, and serve as principal advisors to senior executives. GS-15 equivalent roles in federal contracts represent the highest individual contributor and management positions outside of executive compensation.
- Trainee / SupportGS-3 employees perform clerical and technical work with some variety and independence. This grade typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent experience. Federal contractors frequently staff GS-3 equivalent positions for administrative support, records management, and customer service at government installations.