The Senior Executive Service (SES) is a corps of career executives who administer public programs at the top levels of the federal government. SES members are responsible for leading and managing the government’s workforce, developing and implementing policies, and ensuring the efficient and effective operation of government programs.
Key Facts
- The Senior Executive Service (SES) is a performance-based pay system.
- The SES pay range has a minimum rate of basic pay equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and a maximum rate of basic pay equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule.
- SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule.
- Agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary.
- Each year, the President signs an Executive Order announcing the pay adjustments to statutory pay systems.
- The Office of Personnel Management issues a memorandum providing guidance and general information on the new pay rates and how they apply to the SES.
- In addition to salary, SES members may receive performance awards (bonuses) based on their performance during the most recently completed appraisal period.
- The amount of an individual performance award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay.
- SES members may also be eligible for cash awards based on special acts or services, suggestions, inventions, superior accomplishments, or productivity gains.
- SES members are not eligible for locality pay, but some positions may include additional recruitment incentives.
SES Pay Structure
The SES is a performance-based pay system. SES members’ salaries are based on their performance, as well as their rank and position. The SES pay range has a minimum rate of basic pay equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and a maximum rate of basic pay equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule. SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule. Agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary.
Each year, the President signs an Executive Order announcing the pay adjustments to statutory pay systems. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issues a memorandum providing guidance and general information on the new pay rates and how they apply to the SES.
Performance Awards and Cash Awards
In addition to salary, SES members may receive performance awards (bonuses) based on their performance during the most recently completed appraisal period. The amount of an individual performance award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay. Agencies must implement and fund an SES performance awards program, as required by statute (5 U.S.C. 5384). The agency head approves performance awards based on final summary ratings following recommendations by the agency Performance Review Board.
SES members may also be eligible for cash awards based on special acts or services, suggestions, inventions, superior accomplishments, or productivity gains.
Other Benefits
SES members are not eligible for locality pay, but some positions may include additional recruitment incentives. SES members are also eligible for a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and life insurance.
Conclusion
The SES is a challenging and rewarding career opportunity for those who are interested in serving the public and making a difference in the world. SES members play a vital role in the operation of the federal government and are compensated accordingly.
Sources
FAQs
What is the salary range for SES members?
The SES pay range has a minimum rate of basic pay equal to 120 percent of the rate for GS-15, step 1, and a maximum rate of basic pay equal to the rate for Level III of the Executive Schedule.
What is the annual aggregate limitation on pay for SES members?
SES members have an annual aggregate limitation on pay equal to the rate for Level I of the Executive Schedule. Agencies with certified SES performance appraisal systems may apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay, up to the Vice President’s salary.
How are SES performance awards determined?
SES performance awards are based on the executive’s performance during the most recently completed appraisal period. The amount of an individual performance award must be between 5 percent and 20 percent of the executive’s rate of basic pay.
Are SES members eligible for cash awards?
Yes, SES members may be eligible for cash awards based on special acts or services, suggestions, inventions, superior accomplishments, or productivity gains.
Are SES members eligible for locality pay?
No, SES members are not eligible for locality pay.
What are some of the benefits that SES members are eligible for?
SES members are eligible for a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and life insurance.
How can I apply for an SES position?
To apply for an SES position, you must meet the qualifications for the position and submit an application to the appropriate agency.
Where can I find more information about SES positions?
You can find more information about SES positions on the OPM website and the USAJOBS website.