Breaking Into the Ranks

New hires in 2003 were concentrated in the lower ages, salaries and grades. Critics say it is difficult to land a higher-ranking job from outside the hiring agency.

New 2003 hires, by annual salary

Salary Percent
Under $30,000 61%
$30,000-$50,000 26
$50,000-$70,000 7
$70,000-$90,000 3
More than $90,000 3

New 2003 hires, by age

Age Percent
Under 30 40%
30-40 23
40-50 21
50-60 13
60 and above 3

New 2003 hires, by gender

Gender Percent
Male 55%
Female 45

New 2003 hires, by grade

Grade Percent
GS-1 3%
GS-2 5
GS-3 12
GS-4 20
GS-5 20
GS-6 5
GS-7 12
GS-8 1
GS-9 6
GS-10 1
GS-11 6
GS-12 4
GS-13 3
GS-14 1
GS-15 1

Source: Office of Personnel Management

NEXT STORY: Getting to Know You