The Senior Executive Service (SES) is a corps of approximately 7,000 men and women who administer public programs at the highest levels of the federal government. SES positions are primarily managerial and supervisory. SES pay is linked to individual performance. Basic annual salaries for 2024 range from $180,000 to $246,200 (https://federaljobs.net/ses/).
Key Facts
- Salary Range: The basic annual salaries for SES positions in 2024 range from $180,000 to $246,200.
- Performance-Based Pay: The SES pay system is performance-based. The minimum rate of basic pay for SES members is equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and the maximum rate is equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule.
- Aggregate Limitation on Pay: SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule. However, agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary.
- Performance Awards: Career executives may receive performance awards (bonuses) based on their performance during the most recently completed appraisal period. The amount of an individual award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay.
- Presidential Rank Awards: SES members can also be nominated for Presidential Rank Awards to recognize sustained (Meritorious Rank) and sustained extraordinary (Distinguished Rank) accomplishments. Recipients of the Distinguished Rank are entitled to payment of 35% of annual basic pay, while Meritorious Rank recipients are entitled to payment of 20% of annual basic pay.
Performance-Based Pay
The SES pay system is performance-based (https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/compensation/). The minimum rate of basic pay for SES members is equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and the maximum rate is equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule.
Aggregate Limitation on Pay
SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule. However, agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary (https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/compensation/).
Performance Awards
Career executives may receive performance awards (bonuses) based on their performance during the most recently completed appraisal period. The amount of an individual award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay (https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/compensation/).
Presidential Rank Awards
SES members can also be nominated for Presidential Rank Awards to recognize sustained (Meritorious Rank) and sustained extraordinary (Distinguished Rank) accomplishments. Recipients of the Distinguished Rank are entitled to payment of 35% of annual basic pay, while Meritorious Rank recipients are entitled to payment of 20% of annual basic pay (https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/compensation/).
Sources
- https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2022/executive-senior-level
- https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/compensation/
- https://federaljobs.net/ses/
FAQs
What is the salary range for SES members?
The basic annual salaries for SES positions in 2024 range from $180,000 to $246,200.
How is SES pay determined?
SES pay is performance-based. The minimum rate of basic pay for SES members is equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and the maximum rate is equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule.
Is there a limit on how much SES members can earn?
Yes, SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule. However, agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary.
Are SES members eligible for performance awards?
Yes, career executives may receive performance awards (bonuses) based on their performance during the most recently completed appraisal period. The amount of an individual award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay.
Can SES members receive Presidential Rank Awards?
Yes, SES members can be nominated for Presidential Rank Awards to recognize sustained (Meritorious Rank) and sustained extraordinary (Distinguished Rank) accomplishments. Recipients of the Distinguished Rank are entitled to payment of 35% of annual basic pay, while Meritorious Rank recipients are entitled to payment of 20% of annual basic pay.
What are the qualifications for SES positions?
SES candidates must meet two types of qualifications: the Executive Core Qualifications, which apply to every SES position, and specific professional/technical qualifications for the position being advertised.
How can I apply for an SES position?
Check for SES vacancy announcements on USAJobs.gov. Call the agency contact, listed on the SES job announcement, for clarifications needed. Ask for additional information about application procedures and detailed qualifications requirements and print a copy of the SES Qualifications Guide.
What are the benefits of being an SES member?
SES members enjoy a benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off. They are also eligible for performance awards and Presidential Rank Awards.