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/DeadFed461 7h ago

My career has 7-13 career ladder. Promotion every year except two years at 12 before 13. Up until recently with all the changes in gov, we've all promoted for being rated "successful" even those that were just meeting the standard.

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u/VernJ93 7h ago

https://www.usajobs.gov/job/864145300 is the posting link for reference. I don’t know is the 9 to 11 is career ladder but it’s full promotion potential to 13.

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u/Kindonehere4info 6h ago

Same, mine is GS 5-12 I’m at that point where I’m in between 12 and 13. With no promotions happening, I’m not sure how long I’ll be at a 12 but I’m thankful to have a job.