Assignments in this tier involve at least some degree of creative, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive work. Duties generally consist of activities that include responding, monitoring, tracking, organizing, developing, compiling, arranging, following up on, coordinating, and reporting. Skills utilized to support/assist federal government workers do not require extensive experience or a degree. This tier includes administrative assignments that require proficiency with Microsoft Office. Assignments in this tier generally support federal workers performing administrative, technical, and professional duties. These support functions generally require substantial knowledge of administrative/program rules, regulations, and procedures. This tier also includes technical assignments that require a higher degree of skill in the use of laboratory equipment and/or the application of a variety of laboratory processes/procedures. Typically, a combination of a high school diploma (or GED) and several years of on-the-job training and experience lead to a demonstrated ability to perform the duties of the assignment.

Assignments in this tier involve full performance of creative, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive work and may involve independent work. They require a range and depth of knowledge and judgment such as can be acquired only through familiarity with a recognized professional occupational field. Duties generally consist of activities that include researching, assessing, advising, recommending, proposing, developing strategies, evaluating, presenting, training, initiating, and responding. A substantial number of the assignment duties should fall within these types of activities. Skills utilized to support/assist federal government workers are typically acquired through completion of a full curriculum of a B.A./B.S. at a recognized college or university, several years of on-the-job training and experience, or a combination of the two.

Assignments in this tier involve expert-level performance that is highly creative or specialized, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive work with a high degree of independent initiative and judgment in assigned areas of responsibility. Duties include providing expert advice or recommendations regarding policy, science, or inspections with the highest level of professional expertise. A substantial number of the assignment duties should fall within these types of activities. Skills utilized to support/assist federal government workers in this tier are typically acquired through a minimum of 10 years of related on-the-job experience, an advanced degree at a recognized college or university, or a combination of the two. Enrollees enjoy a variety of benefits, including health and dental insurance; sick and annual leave; and 11 paid holidays each year.