What are OPM classification standards?
Michael Henderson
Published Mar 20, 2026
What are OPM classification standards?
Position classification standards provide information used in determining the occupational series and title for positions performing white collar work in the Federal Government. They also provide grading criteria for positions classified under the General Schedule (GS) Classification System.
What is the factor evaluation system?
The Factor Evaluation System (FES) is the method most often used to assign grades to nonsuper- visory positions under the General Schedule. FES includes nine factors common to most nonsupervisory positions in General Schedule occupations.
How do you qualify for GS-13?
Basic Requirements for GS-13 and Above At least 1 year of that experience must have been specialized experience at or equivalent to work at the next lower level of the position, and must have provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the work of the position.
Can a GS 14 supervise a GS 15?
The question is not whether a 14 can supervise 15s. In the GS systems, the grade of the position is determined by the DUTIES of the position, not the person holding the position.
What are the supervisors classification responsibilities?
Since managers/supervisors play a major role in the management and classification of subordinate positions, they are responsible for assuring that a sound position structure exists in the organization they lead.
What are the supervisors classification responsibilities OPM?
Since supervisors and managers play major roles in the management and classification of subordinate positions, they are responsible for assuring a sound position structure in the organizations they lead.
What GS level do I qualify for?
GS Levels by Education
| GS-1 | No high school diploma |
|---|---|
| GS-4 | Associate degree or 2 years of full-time study after high school |
| GS-5 or GS-7, depending on agency policy and applicant’s academic credentials | Bachelor’s degree or 4 years of full-time study after high school |
| GS-7 | Bachelor’s degree plus 1 year of full-time graduate study |
What is a Title 5 position?
Title 5 is civilian status. Excepted service simply means the agency (National Guard) is exempt from certain rules in Title 5 USC. If it says “National Guard Title 5 Excepted Service Position” it means that you must be a National Guard member to apply. (Which means you have to be enlisted in the Army National Guard.)
How do you become a GS-14?
To qualify for a position at the GS-14 level, you must have a minimum of one year of experience at the GS-13 level. Depending on the position, candidates may be able to substitute education for some of the required experience.
What GS level is a Phd?
GS Levels by Education
| GS-1 | No high school diploma |
|---|---|
| GS-9 (GS-11 for some research positions) | Master’s degree or 2 years of full-time graduate study |
| GS-9 | Law degree (J.D. or LL.B.) |
| GS-11 (GS-12 for some research positions) | Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate or advanced law degree (LL.M.) |
What GS level are managers?
Manager (Level 5) – Any position that is responsible for managing a program or program segment and whose duties include responsibilities of “formulating, determining, or influencing the policies” for their assigned program scope which can also have an impact on the overall policies of the Service.
What’s the difference between a lead and a supervisor?
Some workers may see supervisors as someone whose orders have to be followed but not necessarily as a leader. Supervisors may attain their role by being assigned the role or hired for it, whereas leaders may be recognized for outstanding performance or their ability to unite other workers around a common cause or task.
