What is the structure under which civilian personnel operate?

The structure under which civilian personnel operate is characterized by graded positions under the General Schedule. This system provides a standardized framework for classifying and compensating federal employees, especially in the United States government. The General Schedule outlines various pay grades that correspond to the responsibilities and qualifications required for different roles, allowing for clear career advancement paths and pay increases based on performance and tenure.

This structure ensures that civilian employees are recognized and compensated fairly according to their qualifications and the complexities of their roles, rather than adopting a rank-based system similar to the military. The General Schedule includes specific grades and steps that employees can progress through, helping to maintain a consistent approach to personnel management across the federal workforce.