Pay Setting: Federal Wage System Course

Module 1: The Federal Wage System

• Define the Federal Wage System (FWS) and its historical context.
• Understand FWS pay structure and wage area definitions.
• Learn about the directives for FWS pay setting and application of wage schedules.

Module 2: New Wage Schedules; New Appointments

• Understand how to apply new or revised FWS wage schedules.
• Set pay for new appointments, including minimum rates for hard-to-fill positions.
• Learn the process for establishing wage schedules and the responsibility of various agencies.

Module 3: Highest Previous Rate; Promotions

• Define Highest Previous Rate (HPR) and its application.
• Understand how to set pay for promotions, including within the same wage area or different wage areas.
• Learn the rules around using HPR for promotions and reassignment.

Module 4: Within-Grade Increases

• Understand eligibility requirements for within-grade increases (WGI).
• Learn about waiting periods and creditable service for within-grade increases.
• Apply the rules for within-grade increases, including equivalent increases and performance requirements.

Module 5: Night Shift Differential

• Define night shift differential and determine employee eligibility.
• Understand how meal breaks and flexible work schedules affect night shift differential pay.
• Learn about different night shift differential rates based on shift hours.