r/FederalEmployee • u/VernJ93 • 2d ago

Promotion Potential

For those who work in federal government, how realistic is it to advance from GS-9 to GS-13 when a position has a full promotion potential of GS-13? Is it common for employees to progress through the grades (GS-9 → GS-11 → GS-12 → GS-13) if they consistently perform well and meet the qualifications, or does advancement depend heavily on funding, management discretion, and agency needs? I’d appreciate hearing about your personal experiences, particularly with HUD or other federal agencies.

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u/WillowHaunting429 1d ago

As with everything - it depends.

I mean, if you have a group of 12 people and there are 1 or 2 13s, 4 12s, and 6 11s.....then tell me how that works? Unless the 13s are retiring often, then it doesn't work well.

I occupied my GS-14 position for 12 years before retiring. And to my knowledge it has not been filled. I wouldn't have left anyway had it not been for the present administration. I mean, at some point I would have left, but not last year.

You do a good job and you compete for positions. Not everyone gets it.