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This career map serves as a guide for individuals striving to achieve their professional goals and maximize their potential. By following this structured pathway, HR professionals can navigate their careers with confidence and purpose, making meaningful contributions to their fields and achieving personal fulfillment.

Image of HR career progression from Early Career Level, Intermediate Level, Advanced Level, Expert Level, and Leadership Level. 

Everyone’s career path is unique. Some may aspire to become HR executives, while others may move in and out of the HR field over time. At every level, developmental opportunities are available to expand experience, build new skills, and advance one’s career.

Early Career Level GS-5/7/9
At the entry level, professionals focus on acquiring foundational knowledge and skills pertinent to their careers. Key activities include:

  • Completing training and development activities
  • Gaining hands-on experience
  • Developing core competencies and technical abilities
  • Forming professional networks

Intermediate Level: GS-9/11
At the intermediate level, professionals build on their initial experiences and begin to take on more responsibilities. This level involves:

  • Achieving proficiency in specialized areas
  • Taking on leadership roles in projects or teams
  • Expanding professional networks

Advanced Level: GS-11/12/13
At the advanced level, professionals begin displaying mastery and independent leadership. Defining features include:

  • Leading projects and organizational initiatives
  • Influencing strategic decisions and contributing to enterprise goals
  • Mentoring and developing the next generation of professionals

Expert Level: GS-14/15
At the expert level, professionals become business partners who solve complex, program-wide issues and represent their organizations beyond their working groups. Key responsibilities include:

  • Providing expert HR guidance and recommending organizational improvements across multiple HR domains
  • Analyzing major HR programs and metrics to assess policy impacts, identify trends, and recommend improvements
  • Advising senior leaders and managers on HR regulations, policies, and strategic workforce needs
  • Supervising and managing other HR professionals

Leadership Level: Senior Executive Service/Senior Level
The leadership level represents the pinnacle of professional achievement, characterized by:

  • Driving overall organizational strategy and vision
  • Interfacing with political appointees and senior leaders at other agencies
  • Representing the organization externally
  • Managing divisions and branches of other HR professionals

Next Steps

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