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Classification System Overview

The Federal Classification and Job Grading System covers

Classification of White Collar Occupations - Provides information used in determining the occupational series and title for positions performing white collar work in the Federal Government. They also provide grading criteria for positions classified under the General Schedule (GS) Classification System. Additional guidance on the GS Classification System can be found at OPM’s website.

Job Grading Standards for Trades, Craft, and Labor Positions – Provides information used in determining the occupational series and title of jobs performing trades, craft, and labor work in the Federal Government. They also provide grading criteria for positions classified under the Federal Wage System (FWS). Additional information about classifying positions under the FWS can be found at OPMs website.

Commerce Alternative Personnel System (CAPS)

The CAPS (formerly Demo Project) classification system covers all the same DOC positions as the Federal Classification System, except ST-3104 positions, which continue to be classified under the traditional system. Full coverage of the CAPS, which emphasizes pay for performance, can be found on the Commerce Alternative Personnel System Resources Page.

Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS)

Most NIST employees are covered by the NIST Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS) for white collar employees engaged in scientific and technical, administrative, technician, or clerical work. These employees are grouped and paid according to career path. An employee's occupational series determines which career path applies to the position; the pay band within the career path determines an employee's salary.